Hyundai Genesis Concept

By Liz Turner

First Official Pictures

26 March 2007 03:46

Hyundai Genesis Concept: the lowdown

The first official pictures of Hyundai’s Genesis concept confirm that the company will soon be snapping at the heels of Lexus and Infiniti. The new executive saloon will be unveiled at the New York Show in April. There’s a 32-valve, 4.6-litre V8 under the hood sending power through a ZF six-speed auto and limited-slip diff to the rear wheels; we’re promised a 0-60mph time of less than 8.0 seconds. The rear end could be taken for a BMW at first glance, while the front could be a Lexus as it approaches and the sloping rear roofline is a homage to Infiniti. No interior pictures have been revealed, but this car is guaranteed to be loaded with kit for a sub-Infiniti price.

They have so far. Hyundai celebrated its 20th year in the US in 2006, and sold 500,000 cars in its anniversary year. It has an enviable 56% loyalty from buyers and its large Azera sedan, a rival to the Toyota Avalon, did well in the Vehicle Satisfaction Awards presented by industry analysts AutoPacific. Like Toyota, it aims almost to be seen as a domestic brand. Its designers work at Irvine in California and it has recently invested $1.6bn in its plant in Alabama.

By Liz Turner