The Genesis is Hyundai’s first rear wheel drive car in the U.S. marketplace. From a technical standpoint, the Genesis is loaded. Opt for the $4,000 Technology Package and the features include a 17-speaker Lexicon discrete audio system. If the name Lexicon doesn’t register, that’s because Lexicon’s only other automobile tie is the Rolls Royce Phantom. Genesis’ Technology Package also means ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear bumpers, which ultimately help the driver by sending an audible warning if the front or rear bumper gets too close to an object during a parallel parking maneuver. Genesis also sports (via the Technology Package) a driver’s seat that can be heated or cooled by pressing a center console button. Other high-tech items offered on the Genesis include adaptive front headlamps (the lights automatically swivel during cornering), electronic active head restraints, and a push-button starter.

A multi-media controller (located on the center console between the gear shifter and cup-holders) is the driver’s primary interface point for navigation and audio. The extra-large sized dial is easy-to-operate, but other buttons—located on the dash, adjacent to the dial, and on the steering wheel—are also part of the equation. Genesis is powered by either a 3.8-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. (The automaker’s representatives say horsepower and torque numbers are higher on the V8 when the sedan uses premium fuel. Premium fuel is estimated to net 375 horsepower at 6500 rpm from the V8 versus 368 horsepower at 6500 rpm when regular gas is used.) The V6 engine mates to a 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission, while the V8 engine mates to a 6-speed ZF automatic transmission. Estimated per gallon fuel numbers with the V8 are 17 city and 25 highway. The V6-powered Genesis has a MSRP of $33,000, while the MSRP of the V8-powered Genesis is $38,000.