Hyundai Genesis UK 2015 review
The Hyundai Genesis executive saloon is very ambitious - can it really match the Germans?
A hefty price tag, high running costs, non-premium badge and ponderous driving dynamics mean the Hyundai Genesis will be a rare sight in the UK. Happily, though, its quality improvements and hi-tech kit will filter down to Hyundai’s more mainstream models.
Hyundai is clearly on a roll. Sales are booming and the brand’s line-up is packed with talent. However, is the addition of an executive saloon a step too far for the ambitious company?
Priced at an eye-watering £47,995, the new Hyundai Genesis needs to impress if it’s to tempt buyers away from upmarket German rivals. Initial impressions are good, because the big Hyundai is an attractive car, although there are echoes of Mercedes and Audi in its sleek lines.
It’s a similar story inside, where the newcomer clearly takes its cues from the BMW 7 Series. However, while fit and finish is way ahead of less expensive Hyundais, the Genesis lags behind Europe’s best when it comes to material quality. Still, there’s plenty of standard kit, including soft-close doors, reclining rear seats and a Lexicon hi-fi system.
On the move, it’s remarkably refined. There’s virtually no wind or road noise, the 3.8-litre V6 is whisper-quiet and the soft suspension soaks up most bumps. It's incredibly refined on the move, as the suspension irons out most surface imperfections, plus the classy cabin feels cosseting as well. It’s far from perfect, though.
Despite being tuned for UK roads, the Genesis’ handling suffers from vague steering and plenty of body roll, while potholes send a loud crash through the cabin. The petrol engine is also sluggish at low speeds, while the eight-speed auto delivers occasionally clunky shifts.
