Overview

The entry-level Hyundai Genesis is the first rear-wheel-drive car from Hyundai for the US auto market. The 2010 Hyundai Genesis is the large luxury vehicle equipped with smooth and strong engines and a top-notch cabin. The new equipment highlights for 2010 include Smart Cruise Control and electronic parking brake with automatic vehicle hold available on Technology Package, touch-screen navigation standard on Genesis 3.8 models with Premium Navigation Package and Genesis 4.6 base, ultra-premium leather seating surfaces standard on Genesis 3.8 models equipped with Premium, Premium Navigation and Technology Packages.

Power and performance

The 2010 Hyundai Genesis is offered in two trim levels known by their engine types: the base 3.8-liter V-6 engine that delivers 290-horsepower and the 4.6-liter V-8 engine that makes 375 horsepower. Both the engines use Continuously Variable Valve Timing to maximize the power spread. A six-speed automatic gearbox with manual shift capability is standard for both the trims. Estimated fuel economy of the 2010 Hyundai Genesis V-6 trim is 18/27 mpg (City/Highway) and that of the 2010 Genesis V-8 version is 17/25 mpg (City/Highway).

Body and styling

The 2010 Hyundai Genesis comes with plenty of standard and optional features such as fog lights; automatic headlights; 17-inch alloy wheels (the V-8 trim gets 18-inch alloy wheels); cruise control; electric push button start; dual power heated leather upholstery; leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel with audio controls; leather-wrapped dash, door panels; dual-zone automatic climate control; a sunroof; acoustic laminated windshield and front side glass; power front seats; heated driver?s seat; full power accessories; a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel; electroluminescent instrument cluster; electrochromic mirror with HomeLink integrated transceiver and compass; Bluetooth hands-free telephone; AM/FM/CD with iPod with auxiliary input jack; and a seven-speaker audio system. The 2010 Genesis V-8 has an upgraded sound system with a six-disc CD changer and 15 Lexicon speakers. Optional features available on the 2010 Hyundai Genesis include a state-of-the-art navigation system with an 8-inch display; HID and auto-leveling headlights; adaptive front light system; XM Satellite Radio; HD Radio; and driver information system and multimedia controller.

Safety Features

The lineup of standard safety equipment on the 2010 Hyundai Genesis include eight advanced airbags such as dual front airbags; front and rear seat-mounted side airbags; roof-mounted side curtain airbags for front and rear outboard seat occupants; 4-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake distribution; electronic active front head restraints; traction control; and electronic stability control. Optional on the 2010 Genesis model is eight ultrasonic sensors along with the rear backup camera detect how close objects are while parking.