The Vehicle Launch Index ranks how well new vehicle models — including new entries to the market and all-new and redesigned models — perform during the first eight months after launch. The Genesis blew the rest of the pack of 27 new models out of the water, with a score of 689 on a 1,000-point scale. Following the Hyundai Genesis in the rankings are the 2009 Ford F-150 (673) and 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan (663).

It's the third major award for the Hyundai Genesis. Consumer Reports rated it the top new upscale sedan, besting the Lexus ES 350. The Genesis also won the 2009 North American Car & Truck Of The Year award.

On the lower end of JD Power's scale were the 2009 Dodge Journey (513), 2009 Pontiac Vibe (504), 2009 Dodge Ram (459) and the Vibe's platform brother-in-arms, the 2009 Toyota Matrix (439).

Full press release below and the full chart of all 27 newly-launched vehicles are above. Click the graphic to enlarge the list to something more legible.

J.D. Power and Associates Reports: Hyundai Genesis Ranks Highest in Inaugural Vehicle Launch Index

Getting New Vehicles Right from the Start is Critical, as Automakers Will Pour $50 Billion Into U.S. Launches During the Next Four Years

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.: 22 July 2009 - The 2009 Hyundai Genesis ranks highest in launch performance among vehicle models introduced during the first ten months of 2008, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Vehicle Launch Index SM (VLI) released today.

The inaugural Vehicle Launch Index quantifies how well new vehicle models-including new entries to the market and all-new and redesigned models-perform during the first eight months after launch. The VLI examines various factors that are critical to the financial success of a launch, including turn rate, vehicle revenue, dealer gross profit, incentive spend, credit quality and residual value. In addition, VLI includes the key factors of vehicle quality and design, based on the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study SM (IQS) and Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.SM

The Vehicle Launch Index is an independent measure designed to help automakers plan and execute successful vehicle launches in order to maximize revenue and profits, minimize incentive spending and maintain high residual values during a model's lifecycle.

"Launching new vehicles successfully is critical to the financial success of every automaker," said Gary Dilts, senior vice president of global automotive at J.D. Power and Associates. "Given lower consumer demand, vehicle proliferation and the financial pressures on the auto industry, every manufacturer must get it ‘right' from the start. By carefully analyzing more than 90 vehicle launches that have been executed in the United States, we have determined the key factors for launch success."

The 2009 Hyundai Genesis is the leading example of initial launch success and ranks highest among the 27 models examined in the 2009 VLI, with a score of 689 on a 1,000-point scale. Following the Hyundai Genesis in the rankings are the 2009 Ford F-150 (673) and 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan (663).

J.D. Power and Associates forecasts that automakers will conduct 205 new-model launches in the U.S. between 2009 and 2012 and will invest approximately $50 billion in the process. Of the 205 new models, 80 will be new entries to the market, 52 will be all-new models, and 73 will be major redesigns.

"With so much at stake, it is more critical than ever for manufacturers to launch new models that meet their financial targets, as well as product quality and consumer appeal benchmarks," said Dilts. "While some domestic manufacturers are facing tight scrutiny from the federal government and taxpayers, every automaker across the globe is being closely monitored both by governments and shareholders. Strong showings by new models are vital to the economic security of the automakers and will be instrumental in rebuilding Americans' confidence in the auto industry."

The VLI has identified the following key elements that drive the success of newly-launched models:

* Optimal vehicle price and volume levels are established prior to launch;
* Manufacturers sustain the proper product mix and incentive support;
* Automakers and dealers effectively manage inventory levels and turn rates;
* The model is attractively designed and provides high levels of consumer appeal in terms of styling, performance, functionality and ease of operation;
* The model launches with high initial quality, enhancing the automaker's image and supporting residual values.

Conversely, the following conditions lead to less-successful model launches:

* Unrealistic expectations regarding pricing and sales volumes;
* Poor balance of supply and demand, leading to excessive inventory levels;
* Inadequate vehicle appeal and poor initial quality leading to low consumer acceptance and a tarnished brand image.

The 2009 Vehicle Launch Index includes 2008 and 2009 model-year vehicles first sold between January and October 2008. Vehicles must be all-new or major redesigns and must sell at least 5,000 units during the first eight months to be included. The index is based on proprietary information collected through the Power Information Network and J.D. Power and Associates' consumer research.

The Vehicle Launch Index is part of J.D. Power and Associates' 10-module Launch Assurance Program designed to provide automakers with immediate and actionable insights about their vehicle models from initial concept and product development through manufacturing and distribution to the initial ownership experience.

About J.D. Power and Associates
Headquartered in Westlake Village, Calif., J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services company operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, performance improvement, Web intelligence and customer satisfaction. The company's quality and satisfaction measurements are based on responses from millions of consumers annually. For more information on car reviews and ratings, car insurance, health insurance, cell phone ratings, and more, please visit JDPower.com. J.D. Power and Associates is a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies.

About The McGraw-Hill Companies
Founded in 1888, The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE: MHP) is a leading global information services provider meeting worldwide needs in the financial services, education and business information markets through leading brands such as Standard & Poor's, McGraw-Hill Education, BusinessWeek and J.D. Power and Associates. The Corporation has more than 280 offices in 40 countries. Sales in 2008 were $6.4 billion. Additional information is available at http://www.mcgraw-hill.com/.

Evaluated against the Lexus ES 350, Acura TL, Nissan Maxima, Pontiac G8, Lincoln MKS, Toyota Avalon, Buick Lucerne and Saab 9-5, the Hyundai Genesis sedan came out on top. Consumer Reports stated, “Its luxurious and spacious interior and
quietness far transcend its relatively modest price."

This backs up Ray’s Hyundai Genesis review, in which he said a lot of stuff about Kimchi, but also that the Genesis easily satisfied the needs of entry-level luxury buyers if they're willing to look past the badge snobbery.

Consumer Reports’ Press Release Follows:

Hyundai Genesis Outscores Competitors, Becomes Consumer Reports' top-rated "Upscale Sedan"

Genesis narrowly outpoints Lexus ES 350 to take top spot

YONKERS, NY - The Hyundai Genesis outscored four competitors to become Consumer Reports top-rated vehicle in the competitive "Upscale Sedan" category. The Genesis, which achieved an "Excellent" overall road test score, now outranks 12 vehicles from Lexus, Acura, Lincoln and others including the Lexus ES 350.

The Genesis' performance in CR's battery of tests solidifies the automaker's reputation as a builder of high-quality vehicles in several diverse automotive segments. Previously, Consumer Reports named two Hyundais, the Elantra and Santa Fe, as "Top Pick" vehicles in the small sedan and midsize SUV categories respectively.

"The Hyundai Genesis rivals high-end luxury sedans but costs considerably less," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut. "Its luxurious and spacious interior and quietness far transcend its relatively modest price."

The Genesis was tested against four other new or redesigned upscale sedans—the Acura TL, Nissan Maxima, Pontiac G8 and Lincoln MKS-for the February issue of Consumer Reports. Prices ranged from $33,660 for the Pontiac to $40,880 for the Lincoln.

Two other vehicles in the test group also earned Excellent overall road test scores, the TL and Maxima. The G8 and MKS achieved Very Good overall scores.

The eight other vehicles in the Upscale Sedans category including the ES 350, Toyota Avalon, Buick Lucerne and Saab 9-5, were all tested previously.

In addition to the five upscale sedans tested, CR also purchased and tested the Jaguar XF luxury sedan. Though it obtained a Very Good overall score, it still ranked near the bottom of the group of 12 luxury sedans that Consumer Reports has rated.

But the redesigned Honda Pilot has slipped from being one of Consumer Reports' top-rated three-row SUVs to midpack. The Pilot now ranks eleventh out of seventeen midsized, three-row SUVs that have been tested by CR.

Full tests and ratings of all six sedans appear in the February issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale January 6. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org. (Road test vehicles of recently tested vehicles are also available free at CR's web site.)

The issue also contains a report on the conversion of a hybrid Toyota Prius to a plug-in hybrid. Consumer Reports chose a Hymotion L5 conversion kit sold by A123 Systems, which the company claims can yield more than 100 mpg. Fuel economy in CR's converted Prius jumped from 42 to 67 mpg overall for the first 35 miles of driving. At almost $11,000, the plug-in conversion clearly won't save consumers money overall. However, the technology itself proved viable.

The TL is the only vehicle in this month's test group that is Recommended by Consumer Reports.

CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR's annual Car Reliability Survey of its more than seven million print and web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

CR doesn't have reliability data yet on the Genesis, MKS, Maxima, G8 and XF.

Spacious and well appointed, the rear-wheel-drive Genesis offers good value and is a compelling alternative to luxury vehicles costing thousands more. This car's forte is swaddling passengers in silence. The engine sounds polished and road noise is strikingly absent. The interior rivals those of the very best luxury cars, with its optional stitched-leather dashboard facing and consistently high-quality materials. The only real drawback is its ride, which can be unsettled at times and doesn't live up to the standards set by other luxury cars. The Genesis 3.8 ($36,000 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price as tested) is powered by a 290-hp, 3.8-liter V6 that feels quick and smooth and delivers a decent 21 mpg in CR's own fuel-economy tests. The six-speed automatic transmission provides smooth, quick shifts. Braking is excellent.

The redesigned Acura TL is a nice car, with responsive handling, a slick powertrain and commendable fuel economy. But when compared with the previous TL, which was CR's Top Pick in this segment for years, the latest generation is not as impressive. Vague steering saps the fun out of its handling, the trunk opening is small, and other competitors have roomier rear seats. The base-model TL ($35,715 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 280-hp, 3.5-liter V6 that delivers excellent acceleration and a respectable 23 mpg overall on premium fuel. The five-speed automatic transmission is both quick and smooth. Brakes are excellent overall.

The Maxima is a quick car, but it doesn't add much over the less costly Nissan Altima overall. While it's pleasant, it falls short in some ways. Handling is responsive, but at low speeds the steering is overly light. The car is quiet and the ride is decent. But the new coupe-like silhouette compromises visibility, trunk room, and rear-seat comfort. The Maxima 3.5 SV ($33,700 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 290-hp, 3.5-liter V6 that gives the car quicker acceleration than some V8s. Expect 22 mpg overall on premium fuel. The continuously variable transmission works very well overall; it's also the only one available. The Maxima's brakes are very good overall.

As a bargain sports sedan that can challenge the performance of models from BMW and Mercedes, Pontiac's G8 is a success. It handles and rides as well as the best cards in its class. The G8 GT's acceleration is very impressive, with a zero-to-sixty time of 5.7-seconds. But the downside of that is poor fuel economy-at just 17 mpg overall on regular fuel. The G8 GT ($33,660 MSRP as tested) is powered by a huge 361-hp, 6.0-liter V8 engine that makes it blisteringly quick. The smooth six speed automatic transmission with a tall sixth gear makes highway cruising relaxed. The brakes are very good overall. (A 256-hp, 3.6-liter V6 with a five-speed automatic is also available in the base G8, but CR didn't test it because a more powerful V6 with a six-speed automatic will arrive in 2010.)

In the tradition of large domestic luxury cars, Lincoln's MKS is built for pampering, not for spirited driving. Handling lacks agility, and the engine is too noisy for a car in this class. The interior amenities and finishes are pleasant, but the MKS feels too much like the Ford Taurus, on which it is based, to justify its luxury price tag. The MKS ($40,880 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 273-hp, 3.7-liter V6 engine that performs well, but is not as quick or smooth as its competition in this class. CR measured its fuel economy at just 20 mpg overall on regular, which is not impressive. The six-speed automatic transmission is not as slick as most in this class. Brakes are very good overall.

The Hyundai Genesis will have stiff competition for 2009 North American Car Of The Year from the Ford Flex and the Volkswagen Jetta TDI, but is probably just happy to be nominated.

The Truck Of The Year is a standoff between the 2009 Ford F-150, 2009 Dodge Ram and the diesel Mercedes ML320 BlueTec. Both diesels are the first diesels in the award's 16-year history to make the final cut.

For those keeping score at home, the best vehicles in North America for 2009 according to the motoring press are either American trucks/crossovers, German diesels or a Korean luxury car. Noticeably absent from this list is a Japanese car or truck, especially given the Japanese have won TOTY four times and COTY three times.

Last year the Chevrolet Malibu and Mazda CX-9 were last years winners in the car and truck categories, respectively.

[Source: Automotive News sub. req.]

RIDES MAGAZINE TRANSFORMS HYUNDAI GENESIS SEDAN INTO TECHNOLOGY CENTER ON WHEELS FOR SEMA SHOW 2008

Hyundai Motor America and RIDES magazine are teaming up to develop a customized Hyundai Genesis for the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The RIDES Genesis will be the ultimate in technology, style and refinement, containing the latest in technology both inside and out. As added incentive to visit the Hyundai display, 5,000 RIDES Digital Genesis iTunes cards will be distributed from the car's Wi-Fi network during the show at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Nov. 4 – Nov. 7, 2008.

"This Genesis perfectly suits the mobile executive, with multiple Mac computers and its own mobile Wi-Fi network," said Ben Harris, associate publisher, RIDES. "All of the modifications compliment the Genesis' natural attributes and emphasize the sleek look and luxury interior. We are looking forward to the SEMA show and displaying this amazing vehicle."

Inside, the RIDES Genesis will feature the latest in digital accessories including two Mac Mini computers, a MacBook Air, iPod Touch, iPhone 3G, high-speed Wi-Fi internet connection and movie theater-quality surround sound. The trunk will house its own Mac mini computer, a 20-inch Apple Cinema Display and a motorized tray containing the mouse and keyboard for the rear computer. Within the center console will be the iPhone 3G, Mac Book Air laptop and wireless keyboard and mouse for the Mac Mini mounted on the rear deck. Each passenger in the back seat has their own computer with internet connectivity. The 8.4-inch VGA headrest monitors are wrapped in the original leather to maintain the OE look and feel, while the seats contain suede accents.

"Genesis' spacious and ultra-quiet cabin offers an ideal environment to experiment with new in-vehicle information and entertainment systems," said Michael Deitz, manager, Product Development, Hyundai Motor America. "Adding state-of-the-art connectivity and computing power to existing technology like navigation, Bluetooth and satellite radio, this RIDES Genesis offers a glimpse into the future of hi-tech luxury."

At the Hyundai booth, SEMA attendees will view clean exterior modifications to compliment the high-tech interior. Modifications include 22-inch custom-made staggered fitment MHT three-piece wheels, Pirelli tires, custom-molded front body kit and side skirts, lowered suspension and smoked headlights. Custom dual-tip stacked exhausts and custom-molded rear bumper accentuate the metallic silver and blue paint job.

[via RIDES Magazine]

The exterior of the Genesis is certainly handsome from afar, chrome bits and pieces glinting in the Korean summer sun against the deep red pepper-paste colored spaceship-like exterior of one of the two sedans we test-drove. The interior's quite plush, filled with NASA-level doodads like a hard disk-drive-based navigation system complete with voice recognition, gadgets like Bluetooth connectivity and doohickeys like a USB/iPod connector and the well-bred Lexicon Logic 7 audio system.

It's not just the exterior and interior that're packed to the chromed-out gills. At a rocket-like 375 horses, the optional 4.6-liter Tau V8 packs the rails under the hood with the right figures for our taste, while the 290 HP standard 3.8-liter V6 ain't too shabby-sounding either. That's enough power to take the V6-powered Genesis up to a top speed of 130 MPH and the V8-powered sedan up to an Autobahn-like 155 MPH — and a 5.7 second 0-to-60 time. Gear shifts come by way of a more-than-capable ZF 6-speed automatic transmission mated to either engine selection. And did we mention the size? The Genesis is big — a wheelbase measuring 115.6 inches, a length measuring 195.9 inches and a width of 74.4 inches. Despite being bigger, longer and more uncut than many in this class, the Genesis still manages an astonishing 17.95 foot turning radius. And even with the beefy proportions, Hyundai expects the Genesis to eek out a commendable-for-the-class 18/27 MPG fuel economy rating with the 3.8-liter V6 and 17/25 MPG fuel economy rating with the 4.6-liter V8.

So on paper, the Genesis is certainly an attractive looking package, packed with all the goods you'd expect from other entry-level mid-size cars with alpha-numeric names like 550i, E550, CTS, GS 460 and TSX. But a true entry-level luxury sports sedan isn't built merely by ticking boxes on a list of options, there's more that's different between the Genesis and the rest of the segment than just naming convention.

For starters, buyers in the KDM (Korean Domestic Market, for the uninitiated) look for a more comfy ride than their U.S. market brethren. Hyundai's HATCI (Hyundai KIA America Technical Center, Inc) team deserves some credit for trying to rework the suspension on the Genesis with a set of stiffer springs, damping and shocks to match that differing set of preferences.

But the tuning shouldn't confuse buyers into believing the Genesis is a sports sedan. The buyer-in-the-know will realize that particular truth the first time you take a hard turn. Despite an admirable performance on Hyundai's Namyang R&D Center's ride-and-handling course, the now-stiffened Genesis still felt like it was floating through a bucket of marshmallow fluff. Combine the ride feel with an inability to steer with your right foot, a traction control system that (like many in the segment) can't ever be turned all the way off, limited steering feedback and thick levels of engine-sound-dampening and you have a feel that's more Posh than Sporty on the Spice scale.

But many buyers in the segment are finicky enough to be focusing as much on the looks as they are on the ride. At first glance, the interior certainly looks plush enough to deliver, and in some areas exhibited quality levels higher than others in the segment — fit and finish on the center console and over the transmission tunnel were top-notch. But I also found material choices inappropriate for the the segment. Despite the limited mileage, the perforated leather seats already showed significant wear and tear and the rear-seat plastics were below those of the segment's standard-bearers. Step outside the sedan and the exterior of the Genesis that looked so good from afar, on closer inspection showed larger-than-expected panel gaps and doors that shut with a strong shudder from the body.

Pop the trunk and again it looks right from first glance. There's a set of very nicely plastic-coated trunk hinges, the pull-handle's in the right place and they've even installed the battery there to increase rear-weight bias. But a closer inspection shows off a finish level approaching that found in a malaise-era Oldsmobile, with the backs of the rear-seat shelf speakers sitting exposed and naked and a carpet loosely covering the foam-coated floor. Although it may seem like we're nit-picking here, it's what buyers in the segment are prone to do.

And here's what kimchi has to do with it. You see, I'd become interested in the spicy stuff after reading a recent story in the International Herald Tribune about the Korean government spending millions of dollars on a multi-year program to take the pungent slimy stuff and create a more space-friendly version for the first Korean astronaut to take aboard the International Space Station. That's right, space age kimchi.

What I should have learned from that story — other than not to touch kimchi with a ten-foot-long set of chopsticks — is that I shouldn't have doubted the ability of Korean engineers to defy conventions and create something for the space age. The Genesis is so light-years beyond anything Hyundai's ever brought to market, it's hard not to be astonished. Seriously, who knew Hyundai could build a sexy-looking, rear-wheel-drive four-door with an attractively luxurious interior on their first try? The Genesis won't be right for the average entry-level luxury buyer. But those brand-snobs won't be buying this car anyway. No, the real market for this sedan will be one step below — that $30,000-level of the market littered with domestics like the 300C, the G8 GT and the Taurus — those buyers looking for the accoutrements and power one expects from a big rear-wheel drive sedan (or AWD, in the case of the Taurus), but who could care less about the pretenses. And they'd be getting a steal by choosing Korean — and less heartburn and need for Kaopectate.

As you'll remember, the new Genesis is an attempt to absolutely decimate the luxury scene here by offering a large, technologically advanced, V8-powered rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan at a not too unreasonable price. Specifically, a 375 horsepower, 333 lb-ft of torque Tau V8 that puts power through the rear wheels and launches the sedan to 60 mph in under six seconds for a price possibly under $42,000. [Motive Mag Forums]

Though we've brought you photos of the Godzilla crashing earlier today, we don't see this as an alarming increase in Asian car accidents but rather a welcome increase in people sharing pics of wrecked exotics. And by "exotic" we mean, you know, stuff we don't see here yet. [Zeanon via CarScoop]

The Technology Package includes:
- Lexicon Discrete Audio System
- Six-disc in-dash DVD changer navigation system
- Reversing camera
- Driving Information System
- Multimedia controller
- HID, Auto-levelling headlights
- Adaptive cornering headlights
- Parking sensors
- Cooled driver's seat

We just caught the latest prototype for the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, caught testing in Northern Sweden. Our latest look catches the fetching RWD coupe with some new, multi-spoke euro-inspired wheels. We also managed a couple new shots of the Coupe's interior, revealing and automatic transmission with the expected +/- slot for the shift stalk. No steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters are visible—somewhat surprising given the Coupe's upscale gene pool stemming from the recently-released Genesis sedan. Heated seats, however, are on the options list.

We also managed a good look at the rear seat accommodations, and they
look fairly acceptable for real, full-grown human use. Leg room,
while not ample, looks reasonable enough. Hyundai's new coupe will be
a strict four-seater, with rear buckets separated by two cup holders
and a central bin. So far, the only confirmed engine is a 2.0-liter
turbocharged four-cylinder engine. A V-6 is also likely, but a V-8—
however tantalizing—is reportedly a long-shot.

The Korean automaker's two new 30-sec spots take dead aim at German (rival?) automakers BMW and Mercedes-Benz and a tiny little swipe at Lexus (also rival?). Smugly touting their new 375hp V8, Hyundai is obviously trying to appeal to a more demanding clientèle and taking a little bit of an understated approach to the whole glitz-and-glam we normally expect from big budget big game ads. We think there will be quite a few people second-guessing their luxo-badge-snobbery come Sunday. And hey, does it seem like Hyundai's finally picked a front grille for the Genesis?

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
[Source: Hyundai]

With production date just a year away, Hyundai is on track with final testing of the much anticipated rear-wheel drive Genesis. And like the concept shown in New York, this prototype is wearing the production-style grille. In the past, prototypes have been seen with a variety of horizontal and vertical grilles - but this is the one that will take it to production. The Genesis is expected to be equipped with an iDrive-type system and is using Lexus and Cadillac as benchmarks. The camouflage - off on the side of a couple of these views - gives an even better look as to what the production version will look like. We expect to see the Genesis driving around for the next year or so - just like this - wearing a few yards of black vinyl to hide the final details, until the production version arrives in dealership in the fall of 2008.