Genesis G90

When the Genesis luxury brand from Hyundai Motor Group was launched in 2015, Korea's answer to Toyota's Lexus showed that it has separated the men from the boys when it comes to luxury cars. The EQ900 flagship saloon was their first following followed by the G80 executive sedan and their small offering, the G70. As Genesis moves on to its next chapter, the EQ900's story has finished and a new flagship has risen.

2019 Genesis G90

2019 Genesis G90

The first Genesis car was redefined. Welcome to Genesis's brand-new flagship sedan, the G90. As the replacement to the EQ900, the G90 continues where the outgoing model left with its unbiased scale of luxury while incorporating the new Genesis look that will soon be adorned to future models. It really is their next verse in the book of Genesis.

Up front, the G90 is the first to incorporate the new Essentia-styled nose, which will serve as the new design language for Genesis. Like it or leave it, the new face is distinctively Genesis unless you wanted to look further because the Essentia-inspired grille reminds us of the Eunos saloons of the 90s while the headlamps look like it came from the Volvo S90, one of the G90 chief foes. The side remains the same as the EQ900 it replaces but the wheels spoiled the flagship's design and on the rear, would you look at that? It looks like it came from the Lincoln Continental. Questionable design aside, the G90 is too impossible to ignore because a lot of people are going to talk about this car post-launch, and with such conversations, Genesis's new flagship is onto something here.

2019 Genesis G90 interior

2019 Genesis G90 interior

The inside of the G90 remains the same as the outgoing EQ900, meaning that it still has that out-on-a-limo feeling every time you step out of it, although you will notice some changes to the central air vents flanking the analog clock and some new upholstery and trim choices. Because the interior of the G90 is almost the same as the EQ900 it replaces, the rear side really shows how much of a Genesis this flagship is while being on the hot seat and letting your driver understand how it moves.

2019 Genesis G90

Under the driver's seat, the G90 behaves the same as the EQ900 it replaces and the engine choices remained the same as last time, ranging from V6 3.3-liter T-GDI (370PS); V6 3.8-liter GDI (315PS); or V8 5.0-liter GDI (425PS), all mated with an 8-speed automatic with lock-up torque converter. The G90 can be offered in rear-wheel drive or HTRAC all-wheel drive system, which electronically controls torque split between the axles depending on which driving conditions the driver is on, providing a well-stabled ride on slippery conditions and allows the driver to select different driving modes.

While the G90 offers a wide array of safety features fit for the journey home from a posh lunch at Isdaan to the trip back to the mansion in Muntinlupa City, the most notable features include Surround View Monitor, Reverse Guide Lamp, and Rear Cross Collision Warning/Rear Cross Collision Prevention Assistance.

The G90 starts at 77 million Won up to 120 million Won, which is still the most expensive Korean-made car in history and it's still less expensive than the BMW 7-Series. So, the G90 may be more like the EQ900 it replaces but it's a fresh start for Genesis as the Korean luxury brand from the Hyundai Motor Group continues to reinvent its recipe for success that earned them awards and accolades during its three-year existence. With the G90, fans of the Genesis brand will be prepared for what's next ahead.

Available colors: Marble White, Platinum Silver, Grace Blue Ray, Carbon Metal, Amber Brown, Royal Blue, Titanium Black, Porto Red, and Gold Coast Silver.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Genesis G70

Hyundai Motor Company's Genesis is proud to present to you their final addition to the luxury brand's sedan lineup which began with 2015's EQ900 and 2016's G80. This is the G70 and by the looks of it, this is Korea's answer to the German establishments such as the BMW 3er, Mercedes C-Klasse, and the Audi A4, not to mention other competitors from across the globe such as the Lexus IS, the Infiniti Q50, or even the Cadillac ATS. So, what is it then, this Genesis G70?

2018 Genesis G70

That is a tricky one because the G70 is made to cater against other executive midsize saloons in its class despite the fact that it was heavily based on the Kia Stinger. Needless to say, there is a clear difference between the G70 and the Stinger because while the Kia Stinger is about getting things loud all day and all night, the G70 is rather like sipping a cup of Korean red ginseng after work. In short, it's much more of a civilized professional unlike the Stinger it was based into.

2018 Genesis G70

A closer look on the exterior design shows that Genesis really means business and all that Genesis design DNA is catered to their smallest offering yet. These headlamps look vaguely similar to the Alfa Romeo Giulia, which is also one of its chief rivals, while the side view is reminiscent of today's Hyundai Grandeur and the odd-looking rear view has some Accent-styled headlamps. I kinda admit that while the G70 is a good-looking saloon, the rear view just kinda spoils it like a hot female swimmer with her buttocks too big for a pictorial.

2018 Genesis G70 interior

The same story goes for the interior and while its pleasantly luxurious, the dashboard is rather questionable for a luxury saloon. Squint your eyes harder and you can see the dashboard can be a close resemblance of a the ones you saw on today's Mazdas while the steering wheel looks very average for a luxury car. Although the front view of the G70's not somewhat rewarding to look at, it's surprisingly high-tech because it comes with the heads-up display, server-based voice recognition service using Kakao AI platform, smartphone connectivity with Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink support, wireless charging system, and 8-way intelligent driver seat, among many others. On the back, despite being 3er sized, it's surprisingly comfortable and can leave occupants on an "out on a limo" feeling every time they get out from the G70. Like most Genesis saloons, the G70 comes with the latest Quantum Logic surround technology and 15 Lexicon speakers optimally positioned for the ultimate acoustic performance.

2018 Genesis G70

Because the Genesis G70 uses the same architecture as the Kia Stinger, it offers the same choice of three engines available from the Stinger as well. ranging from the 2.2L CRDi-VGT engine with 202PS of power output, 2.0L Turbo GDi engine with 255PS of power output, and the powerful 3.3L Turbo V6 engine producing 370PS of power and 52kgf-m of torque, all mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox with Shift By Wire. All models can be either rear-wheel drive or come with the HTRAC all-wheel drive. 

In Sport variants, the G70 takes advantage of its sport-tuned suspension like you'd expect from the Kia Stinger as well as other features such as launch control, rack-mounted motor-driven power steering, dynamic torque vectoring system, and mechanical limited slip differential. As a result, the handling is expectation-shattering in every single way for a Korean luxury car but when compared to the Kia Stinger, the G70 is just plain subtle and too polite whereas the Stinger can be as bold and as brave as a village idiot.

The G70 is the first to introduce the new Genesis Active Safety Control, which features a wide variety of world-class safety tech such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Highway Driving Assist (HDA), Blind spot Collision Warning (BCW) and Driver Awareness Warning (DAW). Other than that, the G70 comes with the Around View Monitor which keeps this car and the driver aware at all sides of the world, no matter where it may be.

The G70 starts at 37,500,000 Korean won for the 2.0T, 40,800,000 Won for the 2.2D, and 44,900,000 Won for the 3.3T, which is slightly expensive than the Kia Stinger. So, what can I say? While the G70 upsets the public in terms of pricing, the styling, and the subtlety that is not what you expect for a luxury car, it's surprisingly comfortable, technological, and handicapable on the road. It can be a decent contender against the German "establishments" but unlike the Kia Stinger, the G70 is too honest for its own good and I'll let you decide on what to do about the G70 for the time being.

Available colors: Marble White, Platinum Silver, Racing Grey, Carbon Metal, Titanium Black, Royal Blue, Graceful Grey, Blazing Red, Umber Brown, and Lapis Blue.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Genesis G80

What was once called the second-generation Hyundai Genesis is now called the Genesis G80, the second vehicle under Hyundai's newly-established Genesis Motors luxury brand that started last year with the flagship EQ900 saloon. Slotted below the EQ900, the G80 is a direct competitor to the likes of BMW's 5-Series, Audi's A6, and Benz's E-Class.

2017 Genesis G80

2017 Genesis G80

When the second-generation Hyundai Genesis launched three years ago, Hyundai wanted to bring their Fluidic Sculpture design to the next level by maintaining its original essence while delivering different elements to our new design language such as simple and harmonious design, modern Hyundai look, and rich visuotactile color. For the brand new G80, it still has the similar Genesis cues three years ago, but with some few tweaks to differentiate it from the old Hyundai Genesis it used to be called upon before the foundation of the Genesis Motors brand we know today.

2017 Genesis G80 interior

2017 Genesis G80 interior

Not much little change has been given on the inside, except for the gear lever and the upgraded software implemented on its hard drive. Like the previous model, the Genesis G80 has a more premium interior that others can expect from its European rivals. Hyundai accomplished it by delivering a well-tailored interior design specifications for all materials and mater craftsmanship-level finish to further improve its premium image. Form its TFT LCD Cluster, Lexicon Surround Sound System with 17-speakers, Smart Trunk System, and many other convenient features, the G80 is a Korean premium saloon that has the same magnitude as the Europeans when it comes to conveniences and comfort.

2017 Genesis G80

Under the hood, the G80 still offers two V6 petrol engines available such as the V6 3.3 Lambda and the V6 3.8 Lambda engine. The 3.3L V6 engine produces 282PS of power, 35.4kg-m of torque, and fuel economy of 9.6km/L while the 3.8L V6 engine produces 315PS of power, 40.5kg-m of torque, and fuel economy of 9.2km/L. By autumn, there will be a G80 Sport model, packed with the similar 3.3L V6 T-GDi engine from the EQ900, which produces 370PS of power output. They're both mated with a revised 8-speed automatic transmission with lock-up torque converter.

The G80 also comes with an optional HTRAC all-wheel drive system, which electronically controls torque split between the axles depending on which driving conditions the driver is on, providing a well-stabled ride on slippery conditions and allows the driver to select different driving modes,

As a technologically-advanced saloon, the G80 comes with an array of safety tech such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection, Active Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Driver Attention Alert, to Smart High Beam Assist and Around View Monitor.

The G80 starts from 48,100,000 to 71,700,000 Korean Won and that puts in the similar price bracket as its European rivals from its class.

The EQ900 and the G80 are just the start because by next year, Genesis' take on BMW's 3-Series and MB's C-Class, inspired by the New York concept, will be launched, with a luxury crossover and a replacement to the Genesis Coupe will come out later and all Genesis models will be launched within the end of the decade.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Genesis EQ900L

2017 Genesis EQ900L

2017 Genesis EQ900L interior

Late last year, Hyundai Motor Company made "Genesis" into a standalone luxury brand in the same way Citroen done with DS Automobiles, showing that it's the ideal moment to separate the men from the boys when it comes to cars. The first venture to the Genesis Motors brand is the EQ900, the flagship replacement to the Equus that promises to take on the likes of MB's S-Class and BMW's 7-Series.

Now, the first Genesis car in automotive history has been given a stretched version called the EQ900L and with added 290mm in the wheelbase, the interior of the EQ900L will accommodate even a top-ranking South Korean official after his or her busy day at the parliament. With the available "First Class VIP Seat" option, this would be the most relaxing back seat a South Korean official may live up with and enjoy his or her backseat privileges from reading the newspaper, watching TV for today's news, or even phone calls with the other officials. The rear seat of the EQ900L is nothing more like a command center on the road.

Exclusive to the EQ900L is the powerful V8 5.0-liter GDI engine which produces 425PS of power and 7.2km/L of fuel consumption, while mated with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. It even comes with HTRAC all-wheel drive system which makes it an all-weather cruiser from the Blue House to Gangnam.

The EQ900L also comes with an array of tech such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection, Active Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Driver Attention Alert, to Smart High Beam Assist and Around View Monitor.

The price for the EQ900L starts at 150,200,000 Korean Won (roughly $125,000), making it the most expensive Korean car to buy, unless if you are trying to commission it as the main mode of transport for South Korean politicians trying to mop up today's situations.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Genesis EQ900

Genesis, once used as Hyundai's premium saloon, has now spawned into a standalone luxury brand in the same way Citroen did with DS Automobiles, showing that it's the ideal moment to separate the men from the boys when it comes to cars. Yep, separating luxury cars from the mainstream line of cars in the pursuit of dominance. With the so-called "Genesis Motors" now a luxury car brand for Hyundai Motor Company, the first Genesis car in the lineup is the flagship replacement to the Hyundai Equus. It's called the EQ900.

2016 Genesis EQ900

Known to be South Korea's take on MB's S-Class and BMW's 7-Series, the new Genesis EQ900 emphasizes sovereignty over style, and from every angle, you can see that its sovereign feel as a flagship saloon truly matches the dynamism similar to European premium full-size saloons. You can really tell whoever has one does mean business on the city streets and on the open road. Because it focuses on Genesis' "Human-Centered Luxury" philosophy, the new EQ900 promises to breathe a new life out of the luxury car stakes, delivering cutting-edge technology and a more lively driving feel to indulge with.

2016 Genesis EQ900 interior

So, what to expect about the EQ900's design? From every angle, the design looks rather excellent for a premium saloon made by the Koreans and while you can expect a hint of Hyundai on the front side, the rear side is somewhat similar to the S-Class or rather a Cadillac XTS but anyway, that design adds a striking feel to the EQ900 and as for the interior, it's well crafted and well luxurious. From an array of gadgets implemented on all sides, a Nappa leather, wooden trim, Lexicon Sound System, and many other conveniences in store, the EQ900 is well-qualified to be a chauffeur-driven vehicle if you can afford to hire a driver as well as being a car to be driven by yourself. No one can resist the temptation of the EQ900's comforts once you step inside.

2016 Genesis EQ900

The Genesis EQ900 is available with three different engine choices ranging from V6 3.3-liter T-GDI (370PS); V6 3.8-liter GDI (315PS); or V8 5.0-liter GDI (425PS), all mated with an 8-speed automatic with lock-up torque converter. The V8 model (which is also used on the Quantum model of the Kia K9) can go to 0-100kph in 5.7 seconds thanks to its massive power and torque, but the first-ever 3.3L V6 T-GDi engine is what really keeps the EQ900 very amused and because this is turbocharged, it will take 0-100kph in 6.2 seconds and capable of 80-120kph overtaking maneuvers in 13.0 seconds. That sounds like a lot but with the automatic gearbox at hand, looks like it's going to be a tough slob on the long drive ahead.

Of course, this is still a rear-wheel drive saloon, but the EQ900 is also offered with HTRAC all-wheel drive system, which electronically controls torque split between the axles depending on which driving conditions the driver is on, providing a well-stabled ride on slippery conditions and allows the driver to select different driving modes, Smooth on rainy weather we're having but not brilliant in terms of thrashing about because of being too grippy.

Like newer Hyundais of today, the new EQ900 is well-honed at the Nurburgring to deliver unprecedented handling similar to European premium saloons and thanks to its multi-link suspension paired with either High-Performance Dampers or the Genesis Adaptive Control Suspension system, the EQ900 feels livelier to drive with and well suitable enough for escaping conflicts while having a wealthy client at the back seat. Sounds fit for a car chase scene in a spy movie but not now because let's move on to safety.

Because of the "Human Centered Luxury" ideology, the safety features offered on the EQ900 promise to be less compromising from its rigid body frame, which is the strongest in its class, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection, Active Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Driver Attention Alert, to Smart High Beam Assist and Around View Monitor.

2016 Genesis EQ900

The EQ900, the first of the Genesis luxury brand from Hyundai, starts at 71,700,000 to 114,900,000 Korean Won (estimated $61,000 to $97,200), which sounds very expensive for a Korean-made car of that size but it's surprisingly less expensive than the recent BMW 7-Series.

This is just the start because, by next year, it will be sold as the Genesis G90 overseas, including in major markets like North America, China, and the Middle East. The Genesis lineup will be expanded next year with the facelifted second-generation Hyundai Genesis rebranded as the Genesis G80, made to compete against the next BMW 5-Series and MB E-Class, as well as Genesis' take on BMW's 3-Series and MB's C-Class called G70. A luxury crossover and a replacement to the Genesis Coupe will come out later and all Genesis models will be launched by the end of the decade. This is going to be one heck of an ambitious goal set up by the Korean automotive giant and we can't hardly wait what surprises will pull on the sleeves of Hyundai's luxury Genesis Motors brand.

Available colors: Marble White, Platinum Silver, Gold Scent, Fine Titanium, Cosmo Grey, Neptune Blue, Tan Brown, and Onyx Black.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Top Gear-tuned Genesis Coupe to appear in XTM's THE BUNKER

Now, if you're an avid viewer of Top Gear Korea, you might remember this modified Genesis Coupe called the TGK 520. Tuned by the presenters themselves, the TGK 520's engine develops 520HP of power and 70kg of torque, and they only cost them over 30,000,000 KRW (estimated $29,000) to modify this Genesis Coupe.

Word from the station that brought you Top Gear Korea is that the TGK 520 will be making a special appearance on the XTM show called The Bunker. The Bunker is a show where they provide a normal car, modify it, and auction it to the highest bidder. Think Pimp My Ride meets Auction Kings because a modified car is worth a bidding from the public audience.

There's going to be a SPECIAL AUCTION in a special episode of THE BUNKER airing this April 27th at 10:50 PM Korean Standard Time.

Second Generation Hyundai Genesis/Rohens (DH)

2014 Hyundai Genesis

A project 4 years and 11 million kilometers in the making, I just can't believe that a Korean car company called Hyundai tries to pull the wraps and the competition is making a run for their money as they unveiled the second-generation of Hyundai's flagship saloon, the Genesis. Since I'm not the one who will talk about this new generation Genesis, some lucky survivor managed to scavenge the files straight from Project Genesis and I'm reading it for the first time. So, how does the Project Genesis happened? Oh yeah, I really do read the files from Project Genesis in case some civil uprising broke out because of Genesis.

Project Genesis File No. DH112613-1

"Since its January 2008 launch, the Genesis is heralded as the brand's first premium rear-wheel drive sedan that surprised the industry with its outstanding product competitiveness. We invested over 500 billion KRW or an estimated 471 million US Dollars when we began Project Genesis and our aim is to develop a world-class premium rear-wheel drive sedan and we took four years to develop this model. The Genesis provides premium and distinctive design, best-in-class chassis system, the same level that luxury European rivals had, cutting-edge safety, and convenience features. From every angle, out car conveyed Hyundai's "Modern Premium" brand identity and it secured best-in-class basic product competitiveness through numerous tests carried out globally, including the legendary Nurburgring in Germany."

Project Genesis File No. DH112613-2

2014 Hyundai Genesis

2014 Hyundai Genesis

"When designing the new model, we wanted to bring our "Fluidic Sculpture" design language to the next level and for our new Genesis, this is the first model to adopt Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. The next generation of Fluidic Sculpture maintains its original essence while delivering different elements to our new design language such as simple and harmonious design, modern Hyundai look, and rich visuotactile color. The single hexagonal grille for the new Genesis is now easy-to-understand and has a very pleasant design, making this premium sedan truly premium in its own right."

Project Genesis File No. DH112613-3

2014 Hyundai Genesis interior

2014 Hyundai Genesis interior

"As a premium sedan, we wanted to create a more premium interior that others can expect from its European rivals. That is one of the key goals from Project Genesis and we accomplished it by delivering a well-tailored interior design specifications for all materials and mater craftsmanship-level finish to further improve its premium image. The switches are now categorized to facilitate user-friendly control, the symbols are now standardized for intuitive recognition, and the feel of the grip and control has been greatly improved, giving the driver a more emotional feel when he/she takes on the corners.

Our new Genesis comes with a new TFT LCD Cluster which is now visually enhanced for the driver to see. We also added an analog clock to give the dashboard a more classy look it deserves. In some models, the new Genesis is also offered with the controls of the rear-seat entertainment system and two LCD rear-seat multimedia display screens. With these features, rear seat passengers can adjust the angle, position and temperature of the heated and cooled rear seats. They can also experience power lumbar adjustment or change the heating, air conditioning, and air flow. 

For audio, the new Genesis features Lexicon Surround Sound System with 17-speakers. This surround sound system provides higher highs, lower lows and rich mid-range for audiophile-level quality. It also comes with iPod/USB connectivity so users connect their gadgets for added convenience for the tech-savvy drivers.

New to the Genesis is the new Smart Trunk System and for this feature, if whoever with the Smart Key stays at the back of the car for three seconds, the rear trunk opens automatically, making it very convenient for the owners who don't need to open the trunk by themselves."

Project Genesis File No. DH112613-4

2014 Hyundai Genesis

"Comfort, Stability, and Dynamics, three key goals which are part of the Project Genesis when it comes to create a high-performance sports saloon and after extensive testing through the Nurburgring, we managed to follow these three key goals while maintaining its sporty character drivers have been longing for. The new Genesis now offers best-in-class driving and ride & handling performances courtesy of the improved suspension and the application of various advanced technologies. We've improved the stiffness of the front and rear suspensions and managed a well-balanced weight distribution in order to make a well balanced chassis for the new Genesis as well as implementing new driving technologies such as Advanced Traction Cornering Control, Rack-mounted Motor Driven Electric Power Steering, and for the first time, the new Genesis is also offered with an all-wheel drive system we called it HTRAC.

The HTRAC all-wheel drive system electronically controls torque split between the axles depending on which driving conditions the driver is on, providing a well-stabled ride on slippery conditions and allows the driver to select different driving modes, NORMAL or SPORT, for a well-tailored driving experience.

For our new model, we offer two V6 petrol engines available such as the V6 3.3 Lambda and the V6 3.8 Lambda engine. The 3.3L V6 engine produces 282PS of power, 35.4kg-m of torque, and fuel economy of 9.4km/L while the 3.8L V6 engine produces 315PS of power, 40.5kg-m of torque, and fuel economy of 9.0km/L. Both of these engines are fitted with our specially-designed 8-speed automatic transmission with precise gear ratios and lightweight components to make driving more responsive."

Project Genesis File No. DH112613-5

2014 Hyundai Genesis

2014 Hyundai Genesis

"Safety is also part of the Project Genesis portfolio and we managed to accomplished it for our new model due to improved body structure and rigidity so its crash tests will be significantly improved. We increased its torsional and bending stiffness by applying ultra-high-strength steel hot-stamping and double-section structure on the front, partitioned engine room design as well as improved rear and center floor structures. We even managed to improve passenger safety with the addition of advanced seatbelt functions such as Emergency Fastening Device system (EFD), which tightly fastens passengers in crashes, and Pre-Safe seatbelt, which warns of danger in advance by tightening the seat belt.

We also applied Advanced Smart Cruise Control which allows the new Genesis to detect cars within a driver-specified distance, and automatically maintains a consistent following distance, Advanced Smart Parking Assist System for increased parking safety, and "Ghost Door Closing", a feature that even when it's not closed properly, it automatically closes it properly.  Put all these together and the new Genesis provides best-in-class safety, setting a benchmark for the safest premium car in its class."

Project Genesis File No. DH112613-6

2014 Hyundai Genesis

"We plan to sell 62,000 units of our new Genesis annually, from domestic and overseas, including major markets like North America, China, and Middle East. Prices start from 46.6-52.6 million won for the 3.3L model up to 55.1-69.6 million won for the 3.8L model. Available colors for the new Genesis are Onyx Black, Marble White, Platinum Silver, Polished Metal, Urban Grey, Sand Opal, Burgundy Red, Ghost Blue, Haze Blue, Tan Brown, and Black Pearl."

Case closed.

So there we are, after reading through the secret files from Project Genesis, it seems that Hyundai managed to create the next-generation Genesis by honing their performance at the Nurburgring, giving this Korean premium sedan the same level that its European rivals had. This new model has the 5-Series, E-Class, and A6 on sights and not only that, it can also pick a fight against its Japanese rivals like the GS and the Fuga, respectively. What made me bizarre is that the files from Project Genesis didn't mention its availability from Europe as well as right-hand drive markets but like the first generation, it's a big NO. Although I'm not sure if this car will hit the European market soon, it's still available exclusively at selected left-hand drive markets, meaning that if you live in a right-hand drive market, sorry to say that this new Genesis is not welcomed until further notice.

So...is this the master plan Project Genesis worth developing for?

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Hyundai reveals new Genesis logo

Hyundai Genesis logo (old)

Everyone's familiar with this Hyundai Genesis logo, right? Anyway, this is the Genesis logo when Hyundai's premium sedan was launched in January 2008. Now, Hyundai Motor Company revealed what I think to be the new logo for the Genesis and this new logo looks like this...

Hyundai Genesis logo (new)

Yes, this is the new Genesis logo, which will be in effect to the second-generation model coming soon.

Upcoming Genesis full model change rendering

Anyway, Hyundai released their teaser commercial for their next Genesis sedan featuring the Nurburgring. In the teaser clip, it only featured the Nurburgring and in the end, the new Genesis logo was featured. Here's the clip that sums it up...

Look for more details about the next Hyundai Genesis very soon.

Forza Horizon: Oppa Gen Coupe Style

Just K-POP-ing around...

At Forza Horizon, we don't do that latest craze made by someone Korean that is somewhat a two-word craze where the first word starts with G and the second word stats with S. Wanna guess what that is? Spoilers, we don't do that here but with the only Korean that was accepted on the Horizon fest, which is the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe, it seems that it tries to show how K-POP worthy of being in the party.

With its 3.8L Lambda V6 GDi engine that produces 350PS of power, that's a lot of power for something Korean but even though it's not as quick as its other rivals, it sure knows how to do the G thing in the corners. A piece of K-POP would be enough for this car though and that would be nice to drive one of these to see if this car's fit enough for the party...

Scion FR-S vs. The New Genesis Coupe

We begin with the Scion FR-S....

The Scion FR-S or whatever you may call it the Toyota GT86

...yes I know. I lied about the whole exclusivity thing. I didn't expect how did this car showed up on Forza Motorsport 4 via the August Playseat Car Pack but in order to figure it out how did this car behave, even though this car is the fruit of its Toyota-Subaru joint venture, I decided to drive it round the track to see what is what....

That scares me off!

Wahhhh! No! No! WAAAAHHHH!!!! WAAAAAHHHH!!!!

Pushing through the limits

WAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A brighter way to ruin your underwear

WAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!  WAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!! MOMMY!!!!!!! I WANT MY MOMMY!!!!!!

The nightmare ends.

...and that concludes this test drive of the Scion FR-S. It's terrifying but if I want a car better than the Scion FR-S, I should be getting one of these instead...

And it begins....

Some people have told that in last four years or so, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe is just a low-cost rear-wheel drive Korean sports coupe that is cheaper on anything but...NOT ANYMORE IT ISN'T!

Party like a rock star

This new 2013 model of the Genesis Coupe, daintily trimmed as 3.8 Track, looks pretty much the same as the other present-day Hyundai models but now it's lighter and more powerful than ever. It now has a 3.8 V6 Lambda GDi (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine which produces 348HP of power, which means this streak of K-POP is even faster than the old Genesis Coupe and it's even faster than American V6 pony cars and the Infiniti G37S in acceleration and quarter-mile times.

Question is...is it powerful than the Scion FR-S? Let's see....That FR-S has a FA20 D4S Boxer engine that produces about nearly 200HP of power and generally, lighter than the 2013 Genesis Coupe. Let's remember that with the New Genesis Coupe's GDi engine, the kind of engine we won't be getting in the Philippines because of our local fuels' incompatibility, it's more powerful so...let's find out!

Genesis Coupe with the GDi engine trounced the boxer sports coupe

So, the new model beats the FR-S in the straights and it's easier to drive even though it's an FR sportscar made from a rapidly growing country that brought you Koreanovelas and K-POP music to the world or to put it on this way, the Hallyu (Korean wave).

The Hallyu wave has overtaken the otaku!

From behind, the FR-S is all over the place, it was like being chased by a big giant monster trying to swallow me but too slow to catch up on me. I can see that on my rear view mirror or monitor perhaps but hey, don't get me wrong because even though it has a dynamic driving feel, it's still very Hallyu-ish. The makgeoli, the bulgogi, kimchi, K-POP music, K-Dramas, that's what fueled it. Behind the shouty exterior beats the heart of any Japanese or European sports cars trying to catch up. I mean, everyone can drive this one straight away. No problem at all...

Picture a scene: it's a beautiful day when there's a Genesis Coupe waiting to be driven and then some woman in her kissogram outfit getting in. While driving, she's turning into a blonde woman, which later turned into a young African-American woman, and then later on, she's now a ginger-haired middle-aged woman, and soon afterwards, it's that young, ginger-haired woman who was a kissogram before but now, instead of her kissogram uniform, she now wears a brown fitted leather jacket, burgundy v-neck sweater, denim mini-skirt, stockings, and some tan cowboy boots. What? What did I said?

Drawbacks? Well, in real life, you could expect an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddles behind the steering wheel and sadly though, eight gears is too much like the Lexus IS F. What I have here is a 6-speed manual transmission with a clutch pedal below and that means that there's no space for my left foot. Both of them are annoying to me like the annoying orange.

So far as for styling, the FR-S is just um....like a Toyota FT-86 concept car even personal. The Genesis Coupe though is one of the best-looking Korean cars ever built even when it comes with its pointy and shouty Veloster-style nose. They say that this is all part of Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture and the reason why the Veloster-like face was applied on the Genesis Coupe is because to accommodate their GDi 3.8L V6 engine or an improved and turbocharged 2.0 TCi engine. These two engines combine performance and ecology so if I had the devil's own job, I have my own point to explain why.

As concerned, the biggest problem of this car was it's pricing and with the cost of $33,875 for the Genesis Coupe 3.8 Track, it's expensive than the fully-equipped FR-S. So it's your choice really. You can either have a kissogram attacked you with a cricket bat or a car that can be driven by one.

(applause)

How? How could you not like the FR-S you useless, idioting, coke-drinking, feckless, fat, boring, hopeless, talentless, dull, hypocrite, thumb-sucking, bed-wetting, suede-laden, denim-laden, idiot?

I knew you gonna said that.

(audience laughing)

But we have to actually find out how fast it is by lending it to our tamed racing driver. Some say his favorite Doctor Who girl was actually River Song...

(audience laughing)

...and yet, he received numerous gold medals by stealing them from others...

(audience laughing)

...all we know is he's called The Stig!

(applause)

 

So, our new 2013 Genesis Coupe did it in 1:29.649 so that's faster than our 930 911 Turbo so, let's finish this day off!

No! No, no, wait! What about the FR-S?

Um....

Tell me....is it better than the New Genesis Coupe?

Um...Let's see!




So...what time did our FR-S got?

Um...

What time?

1:30.211

No! No! No!

Loser! Loser!

(audience laughing)

Welcome Back: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Taking a summer break....

The Genesis Coupe is the first rear-wheel drive sports coupe from the South Korean automaker, Hyundai, and this car was launched in South Korea since October 2008. It was available in two engines; a 2.0L Theta turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 210 hp (157 kW; 213 PS) and 223 lb·ft (302 N·m) torque, with an optional 3.8L Lambda V6 engine producing 306 hp (228 kW; 310 PS) and 266 lb·ft (361 N·m) torque. It was mated with either a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 5- or ZF 6-speed automatic (depending on engine choice).

Hyundai took some serious PPL for the Genesis Coupe. This was appeared in the TV shows like Leverage (driven by the main characters), Burn Notice (Fiona's new car), and on the final season of 24 (as one of the pursuit vehicles driven by main character Jack Bauer).

Even though it was sold worldwide, the Genesis Coupe is NOT AVAILABLE (and NEVER WILL) in right hand drive markets, especially UK, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, South Africa, etc.

Veloster vs. Genesis Coupe

2012 Hyundai Veloster

2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

The 2012MY Hyundai Veloster and the 2012MY (US 2013MY) Hyundai Genesis Coupe... Yes, they're both Koreans, both built from Hyundai, both are sportscars, both are feisty, both are good-looking, both are fun-to-drive, and...NO. Sorry Filipinos, you can't get these two because our local fuels are not compatible to the cars' direct injection technology. Yes I know, we can't get these two but if there's a chance, which of these two Hyundai sports cars you think is more fun? So, let's compare these two...

The Hyundai Veloster was launched in March 2011 and its the first of Hyundai's new Premium Youth Lab sub-brand, a sub-brand that caters the needs of the young adults. It is limited in 18,000 units (albeit in South Korea) and it's offered with the 6-speed manual, 6-speed auto and the brand's first DCT (Double Clutch Transmission). It was appeared in City Hunter Korean Drama as Lee Min Ho's car of choice, whatever that is. Some say that this car was supposed to be the successor of the Hyundai Tuscani but sorry, this isn't supposed to be despite this is an FF hatchback. What's surprising about the Veloster is the doors because it can open one door at the driver's side and two doors at the passenger's side! It might be weird but this is part of Hyundai's "New Thinking, New Possibilities" slogan. Under the hood is the Gamma GDi 1.6L engine that produces 140hp of power and 17.0kg-m og torque. Perhaps because this is powered by a GDi engine, HARI can't bring the Veloster because of the fuel concerns but for some Filipinos who want to get their hands on the Veloster, they want to find one on some direct importers from the Philippines, like for example; Hancars or Pitstop Motors. These importers allow them to import the Hyundai Veloster with a very reasonably price. Is this something that they could have shove it down Hyundai Asia Resources' throat? Not so fast...

Now about the 2012 Genesis Coupe, this is the facelifted version that keeps Korea's low-cost FR sportscar updated after being on service for three years since its debut in October 2008. For this facelifted Genesis Coupe, you should expect Veloster cue design on the front and the mildly revised rear. Let's not forget the all new interior that provides user-friendly experience and the JBL Audio System sounds excellent. The new Genesis Coupe is powered by a GDi 3.8L V6 engine and a turbocharged 2.0 TCi engine. These two engines combine performance and ecology in one hand and of course, sadly, we won't be getting the facelifted Genesis Coupe soon. Sorry about that but that's HARI's decision. Guess you may just stick with your outgoing, pre-facelift Genesis Coupe because HARI will remain the pre-facelifted Genesis Coupe and always will be until the facelifted version is ready.

The Genesis Coupe is focused to be more of a maniac because this is an FR sportscar, you could do some drifting on the ground and this is the best Hyundai sportscar ever made. The Veloster, though, it's only focused only on style rather than performance. You should be going bonkers to have one but you have to wave hi to these two from far away and that's why you should wait...

Hyundai Genesis/Rohens Coupe Minor Change

Since its arrival in October 2008 as a 2009 model, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe (현대 제네시스 쿠페) really throws a curve to the Korean automaker as the brand's first FR sports coupe that uses the FR layout from the Genesis sedan. This was known to be a low-cost FR sports coupe that makes car aficionados purchasing it because they don't have enough money to buy the Nissan Fairlady Z, Infiniti G37 Coupe (Nissan Skyline Coupe), Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, or luxury ones like the BMW 3-Series Coupe or Audi A5. To stay true to the Hyundai slogan "New Thinking, New Possibilities", the Genesis Coupe finally deserved its first minor change after being on service for three years.

2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe interior

The revised 2012MY (US 2013MY) Hyundai Genesis Coupe brings this affordable sports car up the ante in today's trends and this facelifted model adopts Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture starting with the exterior cues that uses Hyundai's Design DNA. It features a Veloster-inspired front face and a mildly revised rear view that keeps this low-cost sportscar sleek and sporty to meet the trends of tomorrow. It's now lust-worthy, feisty, and sharp like a schoolgirl who has a body of a 25-year-old supermodel. Yes, mom, this is what we do at work.

What's surprisingly that the interior is heavily revised that was inspired from the Nissan Z34 Fairlady Z (370Z). This new interior provides loads on conveniences that keeps the inner driver happy such as a tilted and telescopic steering wheel, JBL Audio System, available DMB navigation system, USB connectivity, and front seats that can be stowed down to provide access to the rear seats. This is how luxury redefined in a hot car that was made by aficionados, for aficionados.

The new Genesis Coupe offers two new engines that brings liberated performance and refined fuel economy than the previous model. The new GDi 3.8L V6 engine equipped on the 380GT variant produces 350 horsepower of power and 40.8kg.m of torque. This helps the Genesis Coupe 380GT go from 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds and achieve 10.3km/l of fuel economy by a 6-speed manual and 9.6km/l by an 8-speed paddle shift transmission. The turbocharged 2.0 TCi engine on the Genesis Coupe 200 Turbo produces 275 horsepower of power and 38.2kg.m of torque. This helps the Genesis Coupe 200 Turbo go from 0-100km in 7.2 seconds and achieve 11.0km/l of fuel economy by a 6-speed MT and 10.9km/l by an 8-speed paddle shift AT.

The 2012MY (US 2013MY) Genesis Coupe is available in 7 colors: Cream White, Blue Shift, Horizon Blue, Super Red, Crystal Cooper, Magnetic Gray, and Timeless Black.

My Comment:
The redesigned Genesis Coupe really puts the glamour in this low-cost, Korean-made, premium sports coupe that is somewhat proven to be decent but rubbish in performance. Seems that it sacrificed its looks and this new model wants to be taken seriously. This new Genesis Coupe is now focused on the perfect balance of performance and fuel economy that this low-cost sports car would offer for the aficionados worldwide. Now, if only The Stig could drive the Genesis Coupe, oh wait, there is such thing as Top Gear Korea so there's a chance we could see The Stig driving the new Genesis Coupe...

This is the car you could getaway from it all...

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Forza Motorsport 4 invites Genesis Coupe owners to decorate for a shot of winning the Veloster!

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

The world-class Forza Motorsport 4, together with Hyundai Motor America, invites Genesis Coupe owners on FM4 to use their decorating skills for a shot of taking home the all new 2012 Hyundai Veloster, while other four runner-ups would also get a 4GB XBOX 360 with Kinect.

This competition is called Hyundai THR Secret Car Design Contest. Only FM4 players in the USA are invited to decorate the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe using the "Apply Decals". This is a true test for players who are willing to use the skills to decorate the 2010 Genesis Coupe the way they want in order to win the 2012 Veloster in real life. The Forza Motorsport staff will judge entries based on proficiency, aesthetics, originality, and brand promotion.

For details: http://forzamotorsport.net/en-us/thr_secret_car/

Good Luck and speaking of which, watch out for the Hyundai Veloster coming to Forza Motorsport 4 soon as a DLC.

For details: http://forzamotorsport.net/en-us/thr_secret_car/

Hyundai Genesis/Rohens sedan crashed during City Hunter taping

A Hyundai Genesis (Rohens) sedan crashed

during a taping for a City Hunter episode.

A Hyundai Genesis/Rohens sedan was crashed during City Hunter taping and City Hunter star, Lee Min Ho, was injured during the taping.

Scoop: http://www.soompi.com/news/city-hunters-lee-min-ho-in-car-accident

Don't worry, the City Hunter, Lee Min Ho, is still okay after a hurtful car crashed during the taping. Accidents rarely occurred and I kinda felt sorry for the Hyundai Genesis sedan crashed during a taping for the City Hunter episode. If he's okay, he'll be back for more stringent taping. Let's just pray for his recovery, okay?