The Genesis Of The Hyundai Genesis

By George Polgar

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The Hyundai Genesis unveiled 5 years ago as a counter-intuitive up-market offering from an economy car brand, exceeded expectations, and drove buyers to showrooms where Hyundai scored big sales of Sonata sedans, Sante Fe and Tucson small SUVs and models.

The 2015 Genesis, with base price ranges of $38,000 to $52,000, is a complete revision on a new rear-wheel-drive platform, with a 3-inch wheelbase reach on conquest to target BMW and Mercedes models.

The Genesis is first to preview Hyundai's new "Fluidic Sculpture 2.0" design theme. The exterior is long, lean and arched forward culminating in a provocative front grille design sure to provoke love-hate chatter.

The Genesis retains an updated drivetrain offering a 3.8-liter 311 horsepower V6 and a 5.0-liter 420 horsepower V8 engine option. The re-engineered Genesis suspension provides confident handling, especially with the V8 optional adaptive damping suspension.

Inside, the civilized comfort and dazzling tech list is distinguished by a smart and simple market exclusive human-produced C02 monitor and cabin air refresh function to reduce driver drowsiness on long trips.

Calling out all comers, the new Genesis poses a real challenge to Lexus, Infinity and Acura.