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Because I review cars, I have driven just about everything under the sun. There are only two cars that stand out to me, a $100,000 Lexus LC 500 and a $25,000 Certified Pre-Owned Hyundai Genesis. Yes, you read that right, a Lexus and a Genesis. Not some twin-turbo German thing or a C8 Corvette (Both of which I’ve driven) but two Asian Luxury cars.
Hyundai Genesis Competition
Let’s not worry about the LC for now since that is a bit out of the price bracket for most, but try one if you get a chance. The Hyundai Genesis is a mid-size luxury sedan meant to compete with the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E Class, Lexus GS, etc. The Genesis feels more like a substantial full-size luxury sedan like a BMW 7 series, or a Lexus LS.
The quality of the Genesis can never be described with a spec sheet, and this is probably why the Hyundai Genesis got average reviews from the “professional car reviewers.” When this vehicle got released in 2015, it was the biggest game-changer for Hyundai. Yes, the previous Genesis was an excellent first attempt, and I genuinely liked that car, but this is a world-class quality automobile.
Hyundai Genesis Mechanical Components
Hyundai used a proper double wishbone suspension and multi-link rear all tuned by Lotus with a Chassis to match, making the car surreal to drive. Many complained about the curb weight of the Genesis weighing close 4400-4600 lbs. The mass was my most favorite part of the vehicle. Because the Genesis weighs nearly half a ton more than the competition, it had a phenomenal sensation where the car felt like it was digging into the tarmac. It’s always magic when a high curb weight vehicle gets combined with an excellent suspension and chassis, much like the LC 500.
The powertrain was also a highlight with the Genesis. I owned the 2018 Genesis G80 with the 3.8l V6, and it is a fine motor, but the one you want is the 5.0l V8 putting out 420 HP and 383 LB. FT. of torque. The rush of power is excellent from the V8, and so is the sound. The V6 is excellent; you need to wring it out more. I was getting 22 mpg in the city with the V6, which is a plus point. The eight-speed is smooth and is not weird but can be sluggish at certain times. Again, having the V8 helps.
Like with any proper luxury sedan, the comfort is superb, much like a full-size luxury sedan. The car is also quiet and smooth, especially the steering, which is far superior to even the German competition. Everything is natural, and nothing is strange. Everything about the car has a high-quality hefty feel to it that the competitors can’t match.
Hyundai Genesis Interior & Features
The interior comes with every option. When you opt for the 5.0l V8 model, you automatically get the Ultimate package with comes with the beautiful leathers, safety tech, infotainment, rear sunshades, and the Lexicon audio system, which sounds mega. But this is why I highly suggest buying this car CPO or with a warranty.
Because the 5.0l V8 with the Ultimate package is the one you want, there are many more components associated with this model, so a warranty or some form of coverage is mandatory in this car. Even if you got the 3.8l V6, which is still phenomenal, there are many sensors and electronics on all these new cars that can be costly when they go wrong. The best thing to do is get a CPO model from a Hyundai dealership because that way, you can even get the remainder of Hyundai’s 10-year 100k mile warranty.
Hyundai Genesis Conclusion
I’ve driven all the full-size luxury cars, and they are all great, of course, but there is just nothing like the Hyundai Genesis and the way it reacts out on the road. I own the 2020 Lexus LC 500 now, but I still yearn to drive a V8 Genesis.
Read about the first-generation Hyundai Genesis here.
Kevin Meyn is an automotive journalist for Torque News concentrating on Hyundai content. Kevin is the founder of Exhaust Sports Auto Youtube channel, where he does professional car reviews on new and used vehicles. Through the use of various resources and extended Automotive expertise, Kevin documents the latest in automotive news revolving around Hyundai. Kevin graduated from NC State University studying Supply Chain Management but has had a passion for cars since he was a child. Follow Kevin on Twitter and Instagram @exhaustsports.
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