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2008 DETROIT AUTO SHOW: Is Hyundai Becoming The New Lexus With The 2009 Genesis?
HYUNDAI UNVEILS GENESIS PREMIUM SPORTS SEDAN
  • Hyundai crafts a rival to $60,000 sports sedans ... with a starting price under $30,000
  • Rear-wheel drive and high-output V8 engine deliver world-class driving experience
  Hyundai aims to shatter premium automobile paradigms with the North American International Auto Show introduction of its new flagship, the all-new Genesis sports sedan on January 13. With capabilities and features comparable to $60,000 premium sedans, Genesis will be offered at a starting price under $30,000 when it goes on sale this summer.

Genesis is built on Hyundai's all-new, performance-driven rear-wheel-drive architecture. It offers three powertrains, including 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter V6 engines, and Hyundai's all-new 4.6-liter Tau V8. Tau will produce an estimated 368 horsepower on regular fuel, and lead all its competitors in specific output with 80 horsepower per liter. With technology rivaling more expensive luxury sedans, Genesis showcases features such as XM NavTraffic, Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS), Smart Cruise Control, Lexicon® audio systems and electronic active head restraints.

"While Genesis will compete for customers with cars like Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8, our engineering benchmarks were Mercedes E-Class, Infiniti M, and Lexus GS," said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. "Genesis provides a potent combination of performance, luxury, and value. We think it has the opportunity to be an extremely disruptive force in the large sedan and near-luxury segments."

Genesis ushers in a new era for Hyundai. Its all-new rear-wheel drive architecture will spawn more products in other segments, as suggested by the Concept Genesis Coupe shown at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2007.

NEW PERFORMANCE-DRIVEN REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE ARCHITECTURE
Genesis is built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive architecture, its first application in a U.S. Hyundai model. Genesis boasts a near ideal 53/47 front-to-rear weight distribution for exceptional handling and more refined steering characteristics. The rear-wheel-drive layout allowed engineers to position the car's front wheels farther forward delivering outstanding handling and steering performance. Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), the industry's most important new safety technology, further enhances the vehicle's driving confidence. Hyundai leads all popular car brands in the standard application of ESC, with more than 70 percent of 2007 Hyundai sales featuring ESC as standard equipment.

Genesis reduces interior noise levels and improves ride and handling with a stiffer, lighter body structure. The use of high tensile steel in critical areas in the unibody provides Genesis with 12-14 percent higher dynamic torsional rigidity and a lower body structure weight than the BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class – despite having a substantially larger cabin than either of those benchmarks. Hyundai Genesis has more interior volume than Mercedes Benz E-Class and BMW 7-Series.

WORLD-CLASS TAU V8
Headlining the Genesis' performance capabilities is Hyundai's all-new Tau 4.6-liter V8 engine mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual control. The Tau V8 delivers an estimated 368 horsepower to fit the demands of performance-oriented consumers. Unlike many competitors and most premium sedans, it achieves this impressive power output using regular unleaded fuel – further demonstration of Hyundai's commitment to value. This powertrain combination will launch Genesis to 60 miles per hour in less than six seconds. The Tau produces more horsepower and torque than the powerplants found in Lexus GS450, BMW 750i, Audi A8 and Infiniti M45 and has more horsepower per liter than any of its V8 competitors. The Tau engine is built with flexibility for the future. Future Tau variants may offer larger displacement, forced induction options and other technology enhancements.

STRONG LAMBDA V6 PERFORMANCE
Genesis also delivers spirited performance through its two V6 options -- all-aluminum 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engines that deliver an estimated 268 horsepower and 233 lb-ft. of torque and an estimated 290 horsepower and 264 lb.-ft. of torque, respectively. To maximize the power spread, the engines utilize Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on intake and exhaust cam shafts and a new Variable Intake System (VIS) that helps cylinders breathe efficiently at low and high RPM. The better breathing results in outstanding off-the-line acceleration and passing performance, and remarkable fuel efficiency. The V6 engines use an alloy block and cylinder heads for lighter weight and thermal efficiency, and feature timing chains with no scheduled maintenance.

Even with their impressive output, all Genesis engines are also environmentally friendly, with all three achieving Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification levels.

ADVANCED 6-SPEED TRANSMISSIONS
Both Genesis V6 engines use an Aisin 6-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission that features an overdrive lock-up torque converter for improved highway fuel economy. The transmission offers smooth shifts and a wide spread of ratios that ideally suit both engine's characteristics including a tall-overdrive sixth gear for quiet, efficient highway cruising. Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC® feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver control. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear that's in use.
The Tau V8 Genesis is mated with an enhanced, high-output ZF 6-speed transmission to handle the added horsepower and torque.

INNOVATIVE AND SOPHISTICATED SPORT-TUNED SUSPENSION
Genesis features a suspension design that is among the most sophisticated and refined anywhere, at any price. The front five-link suspension features upper and lower arms linking the front wheels to the chassis. This artfully articulated arrangement creates a virtual king pin axis that dramatically reduces unwanted kickback through the steering wheel as well as improving responsiveness. The five-link independent rear suspension is equally sophisticated, enabling precise suspension geometry for a premium ride and engaging handling prowess. The capabilities of the advanced front and rear-suspension are maximized through Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD) allowing tuning flexibility at smaller damper displacements. The ASD suspension provides:
  • Improved ride comfort with more body / wheel control
  • Increase driving comfort without compromised handling
  • Optimizes road surface contact
  • Technology used in Lexus, BMW and Mercedes-Benz models
PROGRESSIVE DESIGN MIRRORS ATHLETIC CAPABILITY
Genesis' design is a progressive interpretation of the modern rear-wheel drive sports sedan. To match its dynamic capabilities, Genesis combines strong, sculpted forms which integrate precise details, natural materials and innovative lighting to provide a well-crafted, premium design aesthetic.

HIGH-TECH ACCOMMODATIONS AT ACCESSIBLE PRICE POINTS
The new 2009 Genesis is the most advanced Hyundai ever. From its design and spaciousness to its technology and appointments, it delivers a wealth of features and performance befitting flagship European and Asian brands, but delivers them at a much more accessible price point. Starting with its Lexicon state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7® technology, Genesis offers an extraordinary combination of technology, premium appointments, and value. Standard is a soft-touch instrument panel with woodgrain accents, Bluetooth® hands-free mobile phone interface, and USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs. A state-of-the-art navigation system with an eight-inch display is available. The navigation unit is accessed by a user-friendly multi-media controller that also controls the radio. Backing out of tight spaces and avoiding mishaps is much easier with the available backup camera that uses the eight-inch display to show the driver a clear view immediately behind the car.

A leather-wrapped dash, door panels, and console lid surround the driver in a luxurious environment, while heated and cooled driver's seat provides optimal driving comfort. An automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor and rain-sensing wipers allow crystal clear sight lines. No other car in the segment offers an ultraviolet reflective leather steering wheel, which keeps the surface cool to the touch, even in scorching sunlight. Genesis also offers the conveniences of power rear sunshade, automatic electronic parking brake, proximity key and push button starter.

LEXICON® AUDIO SYSTEMS TEAM WITH XM, HD RADIO™, and APPLE TO OFFER UNRIVALED AUDIO PERFORMANCE AND CHOICE
Rolls Royce Phantom and Hyundai Genesis are the only automobiles to offer a Lexicon-branded state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7® technology. The Lexicon® surround sound audio system includes a 12-channel digital amplifier and 17 speakers producing more than 500 watts of sound in 7.1 discrete audio. Genesis is also the first popular brand to offer the clarity of digital HD Radio technology from the factory. Navigation-equipped Genesis models also include a 30-gigabyte hard drive and XM NavTraffic. Like every 2009 Hyundai, Genesis comes standard with XM Satellite Radio. Auxiliary USB and iPod® inputs allow drivers to fully control and charge iPods directly from the head unit.

ADVANCED LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY
The 2009 Genesis offers Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights. The advantages of HID headlamps include greater lighting power, daylight-type lighting and reduced power consumption. In addition, the cut lines of the new HID headlights are extremely precise, providing maximum nighttime visibility without distracting other drivers. The lamps also feature an auto-leveling function which keeps the headlights level regardless of how the vehicle is loaded with passengers or cargo. Genesis also offers an Automatic Front Lighting System that allows the headlamps to automatically swivel for better visibility when cornering.

NEW TECHNOLOGIES DELIVER IMPROVED SAFETY PERFORMANCE
Maintaining Hyundai's emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Genesis boasts world-class active and passive safety features to help both prevent accidents, and maximize the well being of its occupants in the event of a collision. The Genesis continues the Hyundai tradition of standardizing key life-saving safety technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), eight airbags and electronic active head restraints.

Genesis' total of eight airbags include advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard seat occupants.

An electronic active head restraint system will debut on the 2009 Hyundai Genesis. Hyundai is the first popular brand to offer electronic active front head restraints, an improvement over mechanically based active head restraint systems. Until now, electronic active head restraints could only be found on select Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus models. Active front head restraints have been proven by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to help prevent whiplash.

Genesis has a total of 8 ultrasonic sensors located on the front and rear bumpers. The sensors along with the rear backup camera help detect how close objects are when parking. Distance is indicated on the in-dash screen and accompanied by an audible warning tone.

Forward-looking radar is used in Genesis' Smart Cruise Control system. Smart Cruise Control adjusts vehicle speed to maintain distance from the vehicle ahead in the same lane.

Genesis is brought to a halt by large four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). The 12.6-inch front rotors have single-piston floating calipers and the rear brakes feature 12.4-inch rotors with single-pistons on V6 models. Twin-pistons and larger rotors are featured on V8 models.

WARRANTY
The all-new 2009 Hyundai Genesis is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty™. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Genesis buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.

TECHNOLOGY
  • Electronic active front head restraints
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • Eight airbags
  • Heated / cooled seats
  • High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with adaptive leveling
  • Adaptive Front Lighting System
  • Push-button start
  • Navigation with backup camera
  • Electric parking brake
  • Standard Bluetooth technology
  • iPod/USB auxiliary inputs
  • HD Radio™ receiver
  • XM Satellite Radio® with NavTraffic
  • Lexicon® Discrete Surround Audio Systems
  • Automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • Smart cruise control
  • Five-link front and rear suspension
  • Tau V8 engine
  • 6-speed transmissions  
2008 Detroit Auto Show Photo Gallery

2008 San Diego Auto Show Photo Gallery


2008 DETROIT AUTO SHOW: Is Hyundai Becoming The New Lexus With The 2009 Genesis?



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pushrod27pushrod27 - 1/8/2008 12:19:12 PM
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I wish they would have went with their own styling instead of completely hijacking the front end and interior design of the new S Class. In that respect, yes they are just like Lexus.

This car is the automotive equipment of buying one of those Korean 'Louis Vuitton' handbags. You're only lying to yourself. I can't believe people actually buy Hyundais.

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pacotacololpacotacolol - 1/8/2008 3:40:15 PMView My AgentSpace
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the grill ruins it for me.

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DaHarderDaHarder - 1/8/2008 5:04:07 PM
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Seriously?

I find the grill beautifully drawn, with an artfully executed organic quality, almost like its flowing.

A much needed contrast to all the hard edged/boring grills we see far too often today.

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EnnNorakEnnNorak - 1/8/2008 6:27:48 PM
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I feel like buying one just to snub Lexus. It's about time some manufacturer rubbed Lexus' nose in it.

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NewBeginningNewBeginning - 1/10/2008 8:42:45 AM
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Genesis official wesite

http://www.the-genesis.co.kr/



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pacotacololpacotacolol - 1/11/2008 10:52:13 PMView My AgentSpace
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@daharder

"I find the grill beautifully drawn, with an artfully executed organic quality, almost like its flowing."

you aren't just a mechanic but an aspiring poet.

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Need4SpeedNeed4Speed - 1/8/2008 11:20:25 AM
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P.S. Now it's Lexus' turn to look over its shoulder!

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EL34EL34 - 1/8/2008 11:31:30 AM
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kraut_master, I know you like that, "I'm a Emperor and look at me drive around in my jellybean automobile".

I'll bet this car handles like a boat.

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lexusis350lexusis350 - 1/8/2008 5:42:19 PM
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THAN! THAN! It looks better THAN a BMW and no it does not.

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DrFill2001DrFill2001 - 1/8/2008 10:58:20 AM
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Hyundai can barely register a year-to-year sales increase, with a brand new lineup.
I know they can't bring up Lexus, without them producing a new marque.
VW failed with this strategy. Why should Hyundai succeed with it?
Azeras don't exactly fly off the lot.
If you want a poseur, there is somewhere you can go.
Enjoy!
DrFill

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r15mohdr15mohd - 1/8/2008 11:18:35 AM
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so basically their strategics failed?

look at it however you want, it needed approval to be made and got that. VW just made the wrong move and it FAILED. man-up rosko, we don't need excuses.


answeranswer - 1/8/2008 11:07:35 AMView My AgentSpace
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Yes.

The Genesis looks like an amazing car, at a very nice price too. Crazy how far they've come in the past few years!

This is a good spot for Hyundai to be in. Comparing them to Lexus makes sense. I really think Lexus did its best work when they too were the underdog.

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w209w114w209w114 - 1/8/2008 2:54:45 PMView My AgentSpace
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Agreed. Automakers tend to slack off when they feel they are in control of the market.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 1/8/2008 9:22:45 PMView My AgentSpace
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Not BMW, though... at least, not from what I can see.


Need4SpeedNeed4Speed - 1/8/2008 11:15:56 AM
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Is that so hard to believe! They have the money and the access to the same technology Lexus has. In this day and age there should be no excuse for building cars that are not comparable to Lexus cars.

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DrFill2001DrFill2001 - 1/8/2008 12:11:58 PM
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Let's keep one foot on the planet.....
Mercedes still struggles fighting Lexus


zorbeezezorbeeze - 1/8/2008 1:28:16 PM
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"Let's keep one foot on the planet.....
Mercedes still struggles fighting Lexus"

And from what planet exactly do you come from. Accept the facts that Mercedes is the most desired luxury car in the world and Lexus is only in the States.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 1/8/2008 9:24:08 PMView My AgentSpace
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It's not Mercedes vs. Lexus--it's Lexus going against Mercedes. Lexus is not the standard of the world... Mercedes-Benz really is. They sell nearly three times as many cars as Lexus every year for a reason.


silver1silver1 - 1/10/2008 8:05:01 PM
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That reason is Mercedes has been out since almost what 100 years now....compared to Lexus what 2 decades


1970toyotamarc1970toyotamarc - 1/8/2008 11:18:09 AM
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Need4SpeedNeed4Speed - 1/8/2008 11:23:51 AM
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Does anyone see the parallelism between this car and the Nissan GT-R?

"Hyundai aims to shatter premium automobile paradigms with the North American International Auto Show introduction of its new flagship, the all-new Genesis sports sedan on January 13. With capabilities and features comparable to $60,000 premium sedans, Genesis will be offered at a starting price under $30,000 when it goes on sale this summer"

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r15mohdr15mohd - 1/8/2008 11:26:45 AM
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look at it from this persepctive...when Lexus was introduced to the US, it was delivering comparable luxury (the likes of MB/BMW) for a fraction of the cost. and they have continued to do so since inception. even gained ground on MB/BMW.

if what you say about Hyundai is true, that they are the true value to a Lexus? then I don't think it's possible. Lexus is able to offer so much more and has the means and sources to do so, even if it is their parent company allwoing so.

Hyundai is a vehicle amongst Chevy, Toyota, Honda, VW, etc. in that segment, this Genesis is a looker and upon test results/reviews can be a winner

the genesis is a great looking car, but will never be looked at as a true luxury vehicle like Lexus, MB, BMW...

if you can't comprehend that little bit of info, your auto "perceptions" are highly altered and you should seriously rethink you perspectives on auto critiques.

let's wait and see how well the Genesis does against the avalon, etc.


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w209w114w209w114 - 1/8/2008 2:56:23 PMView My AgentSpace
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This Genesis will tear the Avalon to shreds and eat it for breakfast.


1995e341995e34 - 1/8/2008 11:28:16 AM
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so how long before they discontinue production of lexus?

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S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 1/8/2008 9:26:43 PMView My AgentSpace
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Ah, so I'll be looking for Lexus to be discontinued on August 9th, 2010 at 10:21:31 AM.


silver1silver1 - 1/10/2008 7:54:37 PM
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U guys are silly....Lexus is just waking up so is Hyundai.....


EL34EL34 - 1/8/2008 11:28:48 AM
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This car is generic in every way.

That's all I've got to say about that.

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answeranswer - 1/8/2008 11:35:03 AMView My AgentSpace
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Is that a promise?


dumpstydumpsty - 1/8/2008 11:30:51 AM
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I see a parallel b/t the Genesis and the Chrys 300...watch out Chrys Corp!

And why does Hyundai release their Tau in the US as GM plans to kill off its premium (Northstar) V8 program? This is how GM should be positioning the Buick brand. Comparable power, multiple (2+) engine choices, and interior content all starting under $30k.

The Genesis should be a pretty slick market competitor. How many people have complained about their Sonata or Santa Fe?

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r15mohdr15mohd - 1/8/2008 11:39:47 AM
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with 10yr/100k warranty, they should be swallowing their complaints.

Hyundai strives that warranty they offer...and really is the pedestal of their sales.

however, introductions like this and the tiburon successor has shifted views into something drivers want instead of needing.


r15mohdr15mohd - 1/8/2008 11:42:20 AM
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stirring the pot...i can't wait for the replies to this one.

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DrFill2001DrFill2001 - 1/8/2008 12:13:59 PM
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The 5-series came out first, and won't change much next time. Facts please.

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pushrod27pushrod27 - 1/8/2008 12:15:34 PM
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You're an idiot. Lexus doesn't have a single original concept in its entire history of building bland automotive derivatives of German luxury cars.

Drop dead. Chump.

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M53RM53R - 1/8/2008 12:22:58 PMView My AgentSpace
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Other than both have headlights, wheels, and glass (from the angle of the picture) this in no way looks like the 5 rendering. Stop with the crack please :)

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stash84stash84 - 1/8/2008 1:07:11 PM
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pushrod- ur the real chump here..go swallow diesel fuel and drive your 3 series into a tree

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zorbeezezorbeeze - 1/8/2008 1:31:01 PM
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Could i know when exactly did BMW copy Lexus?
I have a Lexus and it amazes me how ignorant you Lexus fanatics are.

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S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 1/8/2008 9:29:04 PMView My AgentSpace
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Your GS is a total rip on the E60 side profile.

The LS is also a 5/7 side profile hybrid.

They have incorporated BMW's Hoffmeister kink across the line.

Performance/luxury is their new mantra... thanks to BMW.

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StickShiftCamryStickShiftCamry - 1/10/2008 6:12:34 PM
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Most don' even kno what that kink is. But i'll tell u what other manufacturers copied from Lex. U kno every one wants that big body back bumper w/ dual exhaust outlet, and they had that in a modern body car starting from the '89 LS, then the even more big body lookin GS came out in '92, making the 5 series look soooooo ugly and skinny.

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1970toyotamarc1970toyotamarc - 1/8/2008 11:45:46 AM
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The over-riding political strategy over the past 8 years, from Karl Rove, Bill O'Reilly, et al, has been to repeat a lie enough times until it becomes accepted as fact. It works extremely well.

Autospies has incorporated this strategy. Just keep saying that Lexus will fall to the Genesis enough times and people will believe it. Problem is, no one except Lexus haters believes it.

People do not cross shop Lexus and Hyundai. The price does not matter, the quality does not matter, the style, performance, nothing matters. A Lexus buyer is no more likely to step into a Hyundai dealership than a Merc, BMW, Caddy or even Volvo or Acura buyer. The Avalon, 300, Taurus, Impala will all suffer because of this decent vehicle. No one at any of the luxury brands is losing any sleep over this.

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stash84stash84 - 1/8/2008 1:03:20 PM
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it looks nice and hyundai is definitely moving forward but it isnt going to threaten lexus' sales in any way. when someone goes to purchase a lexus(toyota), one main reason is reliability..and hyundai doesnt have that reputation. they may someday, but i dont think that anyone that is considering a lexus would be considering the genesis.




zorbeezezorbeeze - 1/8/2008 1:33:59 PM
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Do you remember Lexus when it first started?
This is exactly where hyundai is right now. With the right business strategy it can happen.


germeezy2germeezy2 - 1/8/2008 12:14:46 PM
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I believe it is an amazing car for the price, but the strategy is wrong and it will not break into the luxury ranks with the Hyundai badge on it. I believe this would have been a great intro for the Genesis brand.

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chuck717chuck717 - 1/8/2008 12:17:06 PM
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I suggest they start a new division because my last trip to a Hyundai showroom saw smokeing salesmen standing around, a argument between a sales consultant and a manager as to why he wasn't paid enough for his last sale, and a poor looking service dept?

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theoptimisticpessimisttheoptimisticpessimist - 1/8/2008 12:53:54 PM
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I Believe the new Genesis offers a incredible value, and any one looking at ES300, TL or even the new CTS should take a look. That said, will they? Sadly no, it has nothing to do with the car but the Buying experiences. Walking into the showroom of a Lexus dealer is the car buying experience at its very best, the Hyundai showroom is an experience far from that.

Selling a luxury car is far more than having a car with a lot of luxury equipment.

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theoptimisticpessimisttheoptimisticpessimist - 1/8/2008 2:37:18 PM
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"The vast majority people are far more pragmatic." They probably are, But they aren't the people who buy luxury cars. Nothing about buying a luxury cars is pragmatic. High-net-worth buyers are looking for something special (I sell luxury goods). Trust me the buying and service experience is just as important as the car itself.

"do not choose their cars based on the differences in experiences at the dealerships" Your wrong, 90% of car buyers in numerous surveys, cite the buying experience as the top reason the bought their car from that dealership.



AnthonyAnthony - 1/8/2008 1:01:00 PM
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"While Genesis will compete for customers with cars like Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8, our engineering benchmarks were Mercedes E-Class, Infiniti M, and Lexus GS,"

Even Hyundai themselves says the car directly competes with the Chrysler 300/Toyota Avalon crowd. How AutoSpies keeps ignoring that and goes straight for the "Lexus" bullet is beyond me.

From the looks of this car, I'd say Infiniti has more to worry about. This looks like a newer version of the M45, inside and out. They clearly ripped off the Lexus LS with those headlights, and it is shamelessly transparent where their inspiration of the grille came from. I do not take AutoSpies seriously, or any other auto media outlet seriously with these Lexus vs. Hyundai wars. Quite simply, Lexus is at a different level than Hyundai. Sure, this is a nice car in it's own right, but it is no Lexus, or Mercedes, or Audi, or BMW.

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farabira1farabira1 - 1/8/2008 1:02:37 PM
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Wow that is one incredible spec for a 30 grand car, the styling looks more like BMW 5 series than the S class, except probably the grill. I don't know what to say, i opened this article determined to bash Hyundai as a cheap Korean manufacturer that can not touch brands like BMW or Lexus, but after seeing the car and the spec, i have got my tongue tied. Great car from Hyundai, and they also seem to give very good reliability like Lexus i guess.

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NakamichiNakamichi - 1/8/2008 1:35:58 PM
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Aside from the engine, these are all standard features? If so, that's economically impressive. If not, any ideas on the package prices?

Also how much does the V8 start off at?


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EL34EL34 - 1/8/2008 1:36:52 PM
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I would rather drive a 2008 Buick Lucerne.

;-)

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silver1silver1 - 1/10/2008 8:03:04 PM
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LAMO!!!


SVTruongSVTruong - 1/8/2008 1:37:03 PM
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Nice! But... looks like a tweaked rip off of the Merc S and the Lexus LS. The front from the S and the side and rear of the LS. Almost to the point it seems like a Chinese clone. (like an Iphone clone, looks similar and works good, but in the end not an Iphone) The interior looks fairly nice too, except that steering wheel looks cheap. Reminds me of something you'd find in a 90's GM car. I think it'd sell better if it was under it's own badge. Something bout the H kinda ruins it... As much as I hate being superficial, I can appreciate the car for what it is and how much was spent on it, but seeing that badge on it instantly makes me think value and cheap. Just my 2 cents...

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c36amgc36amg - 1/8/2008 1:38:00 PMView My AgentSpace
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unbelievable !!! what a nice car they have produced...

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cdokecdoke - 1/8/2008 1:55:07 PMView My AgentSpace
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This must be the least-expensive car with a stitched leather dash.

Hyundai does not want to "become the new Lexus"- they want to out-do Lexus and Toyota. I have said this before (a long time ago) on here but my IPE professor was friends with either a minister or the CEO of Hyundai- I can't remember which. Hyundai has been told that their job is to supplant Toyota and Lexus.

In both Japan and South Korea, the pride industries and the large corporations within them, such as Toyota and Hyundai, are not independent of the government. They are used as a mechanism through which policy is carried-out. This type of behavior is pretty prototypical of any where its principle (as Montesquieu would call it) is honor and pride.

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cdokecdoke - 1/8/2008 1:58:12 PMView My AgentSpace
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Given this car, it makes me wish that other companies would spend more time trying to out-do one another rather than simply compete.

It seems they have done an exemplary job.


DrFill2001DrFill2001 - 1/8/2008 2:10:18 PM
-8 BoostDrop the Boost Up the Boost
Let's also keep this in perspective.
If you think the V8 version is $30k, you need to put down the crackpipe.
The base should be $28k+, the V8 for close to $40k, plus options.
It is a Chrysler 300 competitor. Nothing more.
Hyundai needs to focus on their core models, Sonata and Elantra, who are losing sales in chunks. Don't forget who, and what, you are.
Unless you want to be VW.....
DrFill

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raikkonenraikkonen - 1/8/2008 2:15:42 PM
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