Following the leaked photos from an internal presentation that surfaced on the web earlier this month, Hyundai has officially lifted the veils off its all-new, second-generation Genesis premium sedan in South Korea.
The rear-wheel drive executive sedan brings a completely overhauled design that gives the car a more refined and sportier appearance.
The new Genesis is the first Hyundai to feature the brand’s “Fluidic Sculpture 2.0” styling language, which consists of simple and harmonious design with refined fluidic elements. The highlights of the car are the hexagonal front grille, dynamic character line running along the flanks of the car, and the sporty rear end design.
With an overall length of 4,990mm (196.5in), overall width of 1,890mm (74.4in) and overall height of 1,480mm (58.2in), the Genesis is slightly longer (+4mm) and taller (+5mm) than its predecessor . The wheelbase has been extended by 75mm (2.95in) to 3,010mm (118.5in), increasing cabin space, especially on the back seat.
The new Hyundai Genesis brings new technologies such as the CO2 cabin sensor control, and safety features such as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Detection system with integrated Head-Up Display and radar-controlled Advanced Smart Cruise Control, among others.
The sedan also debuts a new HTRAC All-Wheel-Drive system and new multi-link rear suspension, while all four V6 and V8 gasoline engines (3.0-, 3.3-, 3.8- and 5.0-liter GDI) have been upgraded, offering better low-mid torque and improved performance. The latter is the most powerful, delivering 425PS (419hp) and helping the Genesis sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.4 seconds. All engines are linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Hyundai says it has already received 3,500 orders on the first day pre-orders began in Korea last week, with a sales target of 62,000 units globally next year - 30,000 of which overseas.
The result of over four years of development and an investment of approximately 500 billion Won ($471.5 million), the Genesis will be rolled out following its Korean debut in major markets worldwide next year, including North America, Middle East, China, Europe and Russia.
By Dan Mihalascu
Photos via Hyundai and [Live] Kaablog
Hat tip to Bong Soo!