Hyundai V8 could get supercharger

Maybe Acura should join teams with Hyundai in fixing up that FUGLY RL. I would take this over an RL anyday! Just for the fact that I would have the V8 to slam the slow heavy V6 RL with.

Overall it's not a bad looking car and is for sure to steal some people away from cars like the Avalon and even Maxima with it's V8 option. I would not say this is a competitor with a BMW and MB, but it does have potential to also swipe Infinit, Acura, Lexus would be buyers.

What boggles me is if Hyundai can make a V8 in house in such a short time period, drop it into a flagship that has nice lines and tons of options, then what the **** has Acura been doing adding 10hp to an old V6, throwing a big mouthed grille that makes it look like a cast member from the Disney/Pixar "Cars" movie, and calling it their new RL. I would seriously consider this over a new RL anyday and save myself a good ten grand at least.

I also think Hyundai made the smart choice in keeping the H logo off the grille. People associate it with bargain and they are trying to break off that with this new model so why not do it in style. I think they have a winner for sure.

— Whelan (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 9:58:08 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 11   

the way things are going with gas, honda/acura looks smart sticking to the V6, i always agree with more power, but i think this will benefit honda in the long run.

now all they have to do is fix there bland exterior styling.

— DROOPYSAKK (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 10:17:03 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 7   

**their

— DROOPYSAKK (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 10:17:21 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0   

Such an original design.

— njshift (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 10:28:28 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: -1   

The RL is only a refresh, haha. It is a horrible one, that doesn't even deserve that title. It looks completely different from it's current model and offers nothing else appealing. Not to mention it is showing what the front and rear of the TL is expected to shadow, goodbye Acura, it was nice to have you around for a little while. Maybe next time you can actually compete in the luxury market instead of being, sorta kinda upscale, but not quite there niche.

As for this car. Offering a V8 for the flagship as mentioned before is something pretty much everyone does. In the article it even says they did not do anything for direct injection or any of that but are able to add it if need be. You are also talking about a V8 in a sedan, albeit a big sedan, but by no means a 3/4 ton truck or some other non aerodynamic guzzler like a Hummer. Yes 20% of sales is a small #, but with the option of having it, yes it does draw people to the dealer. It's just like other ways to get you into a dealer in the first place. The offering of a V8 may make you wanna try it out, just like the idea of a BMW possibly having that nice leather interior brings you to a dealer, but for Bimmer it's an option (which I'm still awestruck at what is optional for them being a luxury car, certain things are expected).

But back to this car specifically, just like they poked fun at the Land Rover for cup holders, they will drive this thing at the heart of the luxury brands (superbowl commercial for instance). As I said, they may not sell directly against them, but they are proving a point, that you can get all of that stuff, in this car, for a better price, better warranty, and have the fun of a V8 at a price that would get you in the base model of some other cars like the Maxima and Avalon. People looking at a base Lexus model may potentially think about this car and what it offers. And having a V8 at that price point may sway them further. Just to at least try it and see.

— Whelan (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 11:08:56 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 4   

A looks like a bit of everything, which is probably why it looks good. It may not be innovative, but with the conservative/derivative design comes a car that will appeal to the masses.

— M35MT (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 12:25:31 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 6   

Only a goofball would buy this car.

Anyone would look like a dolt driving this hodgepodge.

— EL34 (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 1:00:32 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -8   

AMG didn't invent the supercharged V8. Stop trying to sound like you know more about cars than you really do.

— pushrod27 (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 1:18:13 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0   

Don't mean to be hostile. it just:

Many automakers use the supercharger as a way to increase power. It's been around for a very long time. In more recent times, General Motors and Jaguar have been using superchargers most among automakers. The supercharged AMG engines actually existed for only one generation. Other than the 5.5 V8 kompressor, all other AMG engines have been either naturally aspirated or bi-turbo. (there was a v6-supercharger combo used in the C36 AMG in the early 90's, but i can't recall the details.)

It just sounded like you were trying to make a statement that would indicate you know a lot about cars, when in fact your statement would immediately paint you as a poseur to any knowledgeable enthusiast.

The supercharger is a cheap trick used mostly by aftermarket tuners for cheap, but big horsepower. It shortens engine life, wears parts excessively, and makes the power delivery abrupt. That's why AMG switched to the naturally aspirated V8. It's a more satisfying drive.

— pushrod27 (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 9:02:59 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0   

New Hyundai's Tau 5.5L V8 is targeted to produce more than 470hp.

I wonder what will happen if this monster gets a supercharger....

— NewBeginning (View Profile)

Posted on 2/8/2008 2:17:58 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1   

Somebody said earlier new rich tends to look for value instead of prestige, history and pedigree. Well, Lexus better watch out:


"High-tech equipment includes: electronic stability control, XM NavTraffic, adaptive headlights, radar-based active cruise control, a 500-watt 17-speaker Lexicon audio system, and electronic active head restraints.

A leather-wrapped dash, door panels, and console lid surround the driver, while heated and cooled seats provide added comfort. The steering wheel is wrapped in engineered ultraviolet reflective leather to remain cool to the touch in extreme sunlight.

Genesis has a total of 8 ultrasonic sensors located on the front and rear bumpers.to help park in tight spaces. The car also offers a power rear sunshade, automatic electronic parking brake, proximity key and push button starter."

Remember, this vehicle will have an MSRP of $29,995. Even the V8 will be under $50K ! I fear the LS will soon join the fate of its stablemate Tundra, FJ Cruiser and the whole ES line. The RL will not see a significant change though; it is such a flop that even today only hardcore loyalists buy it. Much to my regret as a former Legend owner...

— JWalkerLegrande (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 1:55:09 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1   

You didn't try Infiniti or Lexus? What made you come to the decision that Hyundai was the alternative to Acura??? Why not an Accord EX?

As ugly and irrelevant as the new RL is, i would surely drive it before I would be caught dead driving any Hyundai.

— pushrod27 (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 9:17:29 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -3   

I used to shake my head at all the hate the Genesis gets, but I guess Im no better since I hate lexus for most of the same reasons. Bland, stolen designs, boring, not as impressive as the real thing, etc etc.

My point is, if lexus can fool people and find buyers, I see no reason the Genesis wont do the same.

— tattedtwice (View Profile)

Posted on 2/7/2008 10:22:49 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0