Stepped-up sophistication

Hyundai Genesis puts value just in front of luxury

W hen it debuted, Hyundai Genesis’ value-first philosophy put some pressure on the luxury world of auto manufacturing, which is a great proving ground for new ideas and innovation.

There are V-6 and V-8 Genesis models, with very little exterior design that separates the two models. Standard exterior equipment includes 18-inch wheels with a 19-inch upgrade that will find plenty of fans in 2015. The new grille is the Genesis’ focal point,

and it adds a sense of sophistication to the design. This was a model that had a level of refinement to it, but the 2015 steps up several levels to advance the cause.

For 2015, the Genesis migrates to new, stiffer architecture that includes a provision for all-wheel drive. This is the most important change to Genesis, which is now a viable competitor in places with inclement winter weather.

Engines

The engines and transmissions have been refreshed for 2015 but carry over from the old model. Both are actually a little bit less powerful than they were before, a concession Hyundai says it made in favor of offering a broader power band.

The 3.8-liter V-6 makes 311 horsepower and 293 poundfeet of torque, while the V-8 makes 420 horsepower and 383 pound-feet. Rear-drive V-6 models should return 18 mpg in the city or 29 on the highway with AWD models rated at 16/25. The V-8 offers 15 mpg around town or 23 on an open road.

Safety

If you look closely, the black patch in the middle of the grille is the sensor connected to adaptive cruise control and safety systems capable of bringing the car to a full stop in anticipation of a crash. Hyundai says the system can stop the car completely at up to 50 mph and slow it significantly while traveling at speeds up to 112 mph.

With a lane departure warning system that sends vibrations through the steering wheel if you’re about to cross a line without signaling, an outstanding combo for safety innovations, this Genesis is impressive.

Adaptive cruse control is optional on V-6 models and offered as standard equipment with the V-8; it even works in stop-and-go traffic. A heads-up display is offered on the V-6 and standard with the V-8. It displays useful information like current speed and also the present speed limit.

Cabin

Leather upholstery is standard on all Genesis models. Seating is genuinely comfortable, and when equipped with the optional 16-way bucket, the driver can move the leg rests, height and even the width of the side bolsters. Heated front seats are standard on all models, but you’ll have to pay extra if you want them to come with a cooling feature. All-wheel-drive variants are also packaged with heated rear seats and a warmed steering wheel.

The new Genesis boasts more interior volume than many in its class. Rear legroom is comparable with the top of the heap. Headroom is ample, and sightlines for the driver are excellent. All models come with an 8-inch touch screen (a 9.2-inch version is optional). The entire cabin is vastly improved, and it boasts a legitimate luxury aura.

Hyundai has a real winner on its hands here. It doesn’t matter which version you buy, they’re all well equipped. The Genesis comes well equipped at a base of $38,950. The AWD models start at $41,450, while the V-8 variant will run you approximately $52,400.