Genesis morphs into a more luxurious sedan in its second-generation presentation. When the first-generation model launched in 2009, Hyundai put its unique stamp on a premium sedan. Now with the 2015 model, the next-generation Genesis adds to its appeal. The starting MSRP of Genesis is thousands of dollars less than competitors (BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Cadillac CTS, and Lexus GS). Genesis is offered as a rear wheel drive or all wheel drive car. More than 50% of the new all wheel drive platform is comprised of advanced high strength steel, which equates to 16% stiffer torsional rigidity and 40% stiffer bending rigidity than the first-generation Genesis.

The 2015 Genesis is powered by a 420 horsepower 5.0-liter Tau V8 engine or a 311 horsepower 3.8-liter V6 Lambda engine. Both engine choices mate to an 8-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual shift mode. A one-week test drive of a V6-powered Genesis with all wheel drive underscored this sedan’s exceedingly comfortable ride and tempered handling. The test car’s elegantly dressed cabin was accented with a high-powered sound system, the optional Lexicon Discrete Logic 7 Surround audio system with 17 speakers. Genesis’ Automatic Emergency Braking system is a Hyundai-first. The 118.5-inch wheelbase Genesis with AWD and V6 engine collects estimated mpg of 16 city/25 highway and carries a MSRP of $40,500.