Hyundai Genesis flagship unveiled

HERE are the first official shots of the car that could propel Hyundai into the Australian large-car market, possibly as early as 2014.

The new-generation global Genesis sedan premiered in its domestic South Korean market last night ahead of its more international debut at the Detroit motor show in January.

Officially still “under evaluation” for Australia, the large V6 and V8-powered rear-drive or all-wheel-drive luxury sedan is understood to be very much on the cards for the local market, where it would join the already-confirmed coupe derivative due to hit showrooms next year.

The launch overnight kicked off with some fanfare, with Hyundai claiming to have taken 3500 Korean orders on the first day of pre-orders. Hyundai targets to sell 62,000 units globally next year, 32,000 units in Korea and 30,000 units overseas in markets such as the US.

Hyundai aims for the sedan and its coupe derivation to help it take a further step upmarket, as it continues its slow march up from the price-savvy brand of yore to widely accepted mainstream player.

At 4990mm long, the Genesis is a smidgen shorter than a Chrysler 300, but Hyundai says it still offers “best-in-class” cabin space.

Claimed improvements over the outgoing Genesis include the optional HTRAC AWD system, a new multi-link rear suspension setup and electric power steering unit, 38 per cent more ultra high-tensile steel to reduce NVH levels, a four-mode driving system (Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow) and a host of active safety such as autonomous city braking.

There’s also a new 9.2-inch advanced central display, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, lane departure warning and an automatic parking assistant.

As Hyundai’s flagship car, expect much of this technology to trickle down to other offerings in the line up over time.

Engine options include a 190kW/300Nm 3.0-litre V6, a 207kW/350Nm 3.3-litre V6, a 231kW/397Nm 3.8-litre V6 and a range-topping 310kW/520Nm 5.0-litre V8 (with a 5.4 second 0-100km/h sprint time), all of which are matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

“The all-new Genesis is a concentration of Hyundai Motor’s most advanced technologies, reborn through relentless performance tests and thorough quality management,” said Hyundai Motor Company chairman and CEO Mong-Koo Chung.

“The all-new Genesis will compete head-on with top-tier premium models in the global market including Europe, home to many such premium brands, to enhance Hyundai’s brand values and gain leadership in the industry.

“Hyundai Motor has made great strides over the past half-century through constant innovation. We will continue to satisfy customers with even better quality vehicles.”