| New Model Preview | 2008 Detroit Auto Show | Hyundai Genesis |
Self-proclaimed as the most advanced Hyundai ever, with the likes of Mercedes' E-Class used as engineering benchmark, the all-new Hyundai Genesis has a lot to live up to. Ahead of its debut at the
Detroit motor show, Hyundai has released details of its US-spec luxury saloon, built to drastically undercut leading rivals, but provide the same - if not better - levels of refinement and sophistication.
With looks not dissimilar to a modern Benz, initial signs are very encouraging. Hyundai is keen to point to the Genesis' rear-wheel drive set up and 53/47 front to rear weight distribution, giving an indication that the Korean manufacturer is targeting not just class-leading build quality and finish, but driving dynamics too.
Fitted with a five-link independent rear and five-link front suspension, working in collaboration with new Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD), the Genesis - Hyundai claims - also manages to retain higher structural rigidity than both the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class thanks to its high-tensile steel, uni-body construction.
So could a real upset be on the cards in the luxury saloon sector? Hyundai seems to think so. As well as two lesser V6 petrol units, the most powerful motor to be offered in the Genesis is the all-new 'Tau' 4.6-litre V8, turning out 368bhp and 324lb.ft of torque. Again, Hyundai has highlighted its rivals' shortcomings - those figures unmatchable by BMW's 750i, Audi's A8 and Lexus' GS 450. There have been further hints that an even more powerful version of the Tau V8 could emerge, given the engine's in-built flexibility.
Kyle Molyneux - 11 Jan 2008