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The accolades keep pouring in for the Hyundai Genesis. Among them our Drivers' Choice pick for Best Luxury Car.
Who would have thought that economy car maker Hyundai could so swiftly produced a real challenger to Lexus and other top notch brands.
While most of the publicity surrounds the Genesis V8, we opted for the standard 3.8-liter V6 to save fuel. It's doing fine in that area, 24.2 miles-per-gallon of regular, and you really don't miss the V8. From highways to hills there's plenty of get-up-and-go.
Other initial impression is an E-Class style highway ride, and a fine combination of ergonomics and fashion. The brown, leather dash trim is a nice change from wood. We're not crazy about the centralized controller, but it's no worse than most. So, so far so good with our Hyundai Genesis.
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We chose the 2009 Hyundai Genesis as our Best Luxury Car of the year. What a gigantic leap for a brand that only a decade ago was best known for small cars of questionable quality.
But, this Lexus fighter is for real. We love its comfort, power, and yes, quality. We're not sure using low sheen brown leather on the dash as a substitute for wood will please everyone, but we like the change.
While there is a new V8 for the Genesis, we opted for the standard 3.8-liter V6 to save fuel. We're managing a respectable 22.7 miles-per-gallon of regular, and there's still plenty of power for passing.
After 2 months and 5,000 miles, we're getting use to the central controller, and the way the navigation system works. They're easier to use than some rivals. So it's onto summer vacations for our Hyundai Genesis.
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At the other end of the scale, the 2009 Hyundai Genesis is our Best Luxury Car of the year, and, it's a very understated luxury car at that.
Styling is conservative, while the interior is rich without being garish. The low sheen brown leather on the dash is a nice touch.
While there is a Genesis V8, we're more than satisfied with the reserve power from our car's standard 290-horsepower 3.8-liter V6. After 4 months and 9,900 miles, fuel economy is a steady 22.7 miles per gallon of regular.
More staff comments are rolling in about the central controller and the nav system. Both are turning out to be easier to use than rivals. Otherwise our Genesis is fault free, and we're enjoying every new mile of discovery.
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We're half way through our year with the Hyundai Genesis sedan, our 2009 pick for Best Luxury Car. And, so far it's living up to our billing.
The Genesis is quiet, and responsive, even with our car's standard 290-horsepower 3.8-liter V6, and very competent to drive hard. The interior is rich and warm with excellent fit and finish.
After 6 months and 13,500 miles, fuel economy is 22.2 miles per gallon of regular. Down by a half an MPG since last report.
The satellite navigation system is one of the easiest we've ever used. And the optional Lexicon sound system also gets applause. But, with all this finesse, why did Hyundai choose to use old fashion, cargo crushing trunk hinges?
Oh well, no car is perfect. But, for an affordable luxury sedan, the Hyundai Genesis comes close.
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Last winter we picked the Hyundai Genesis sedan as our 2009 MotorWeek Driver's Choice Best Luxury Car. And now, 8 months into our long term test, we have no regrets.
Indeed, the Genesis has exceeded our expectations in quality fitment, with a warm, welcoming use of materials and space, as well as a refined driving response. With a smooth, well-controlled highway ride, and ample handling prowess, our car's standard 290-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 delivers good reserve power for passing. While a V8 is available, we're happy without it.
Especially since at the 16,000 mile mark, fuel economy is a stable 22.1 miles per gallon of regular. Not bad for any premium family sedan.
Trouble free, our only design complaints are the old-fashioned trunk hinges that can crush luggage. Otherwise, the Hyundai Genesis continues to earn our applause.
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