2016 Hyundai Genesis (1149)

Overview:

This is the 2016 Hyundai Genesis. Hyundai designers took a minimalist approach to the dashboard and center console it is said. For me it brings a distinct airiness to the cabin. The interior driver cabin isn’t overwrought with buttons, controls or busy shapes. There’s everything you need, but it’s never in your way and never cluttering. I think you will like the simplicity and straightforward operation of the rotary-dial and other features.

This is truly distinctive to Hyundai and in sharp contrast to other brands, most noticeable in the German brands. Mercedes, Audi and BMW mimic an airplane instrument panel. This difference is clutter and confusion to most I’ve talked with. More importantly Hyundai has designed for more simple and intuitive user interface of all features.

General Information: It is assembled in Montgomery, Alabama, USA; Parts – US/Canadian 5%, Korea 90%; Engine & Transmission – Korea; Classification is Large Cars. Cars from Hyundai: Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra Coupe, Elantra GT, Equus, Genesis, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Sonata Plug-in Hybrid, Tucson and Veloster.

Handling & Performance:

I found the Genesis to be a confident and comfortable driving experience. It is fast and has a very smooth ride. Standard on every Genesis is a system that monitors and modifies engine throttle response, transmission shift points and steering to provide optimal unnamedperformance in a variety of road conditions. Drivers can select: Eco for conserving fuel, Normal for comfort, Sport for dynamic driving and Snow for low-traction road conditions.

The link is to view a video explaining HTRAC all-wheel drive if you’re considering the AWD option or even if you are not.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=UpJv81Zx1yc

Styling:

Nice job from the design staff at Hyundai. Clearly it is a beautifully styled automobile.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent.

Cost:

Competitive. The increase in demand for Hyundai products has pushed the pricing closer to its longer established competition. However, you may find American made Dodge and Chevrolet brands to be very aggressively priced to gain your business back. It is worth a “Look-See”. They came to the party with super competitive pricing.

Conveniences and comfort:

There are optional equipment packages that took my test vehicle to nearly $50,000. Signature Package $3,900; Tech Package $3,500; Ultimate Package $3,500. Many interesting options but the only ones I would really want include * Blind Sport detection with rear cross traffic allert, * Smart Cruise control with Stop / Start,  * Automatic emergency braking and * Lane Departure warning and lane keep assist. These noted features are included in the pakages mentioned above. I wasn’t able to reach anyone to tell me if these features could be selected individually or not. But I will tell you those packages have other stuff you may want.

Some say the seats are not as comfortable on the long rides as in some other brands. I drive 100 miles a day and haven’t noticed this criticism to be correct.

Consumer Recommendations:

You likely will own your car for a while so you will need to consider if the options packages are worth the added cost. But you will want to check that out because they enhance the driving experience and more importantly they add greatly to safety. In fact, I might even suggest you check out a lower priced model so you can afford some of those safety features.

Finally, there are only six competitors noted here and you surely will want to include all before you make your final decision. I’ve tested them all and have my favorites but they are all impressive options.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Genesis $40,000, Buick La Crosse $41,000, Chrysler 300 $39,000, Toyota Avalon $41,000,Dodge Charger $35,000, Chevrolet Impala $36,000.

Good News:

It’s got style, it’s comfortable, it’s powerful and good fuel economy at a competitive price.

Bad News:

n/a

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter 311 hp V6 GDI aluminum engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, intelligent drive mode, electronic traction and stability controls, vehicle stability management control, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with electronic brake assist and brake force distribution, 9 airbags including driver knee airbag, rain sensing wipers, heated power folding side mirrors with turn signal indicators, 12 way power (front) leather seating, leather wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel, proximity keyless entry and push button start / stop, 8” touchscreen navigation system with rearview camera, 4.3” color LCD multi-information display, dual zone climate control, Bluetooth hands free phone system with audio streaming, Blue Link telematics system, 18” alloy wheels, audio system with 7 speakers, Sirius XM, Steering wheel mounted audio and cruise control, tire pressure monitor.

Gas Stats:

$2.95/ Gal avg. July 16, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

18 City and 29 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $38,750.

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