Hyundai Genesis

Hyundai Genesis will be formally launched in Detroit next week and set to go on sale in the US soon after. Looks good, doesn't it? OK, a bit Lexus-derivative, a bit Merc-ish around the grille, but that's no bad thing.

The Genesis is part of Hyundai's big effort to 'do' the US and, judging by the numbers alone, it's got a good chance. Prices start at under $30,000 for the 3.3-lite V6 version, but it's the 4.6-litre V8 that we really like the sound of.

Driving the rear wheels through a six-speed ZF auto' box, it'll see the Genesis to 60mph in under six seconds thanks to 368bhp of distinctly un-Korean power. It should get round corners too - Hyundai says the Genesis is 14 per cent stiffer than the BMW 5-Series, and has kitted it out with five-link front and rear suspension for good measure.

There's tons of kit on board, from cooled seats and a reversing camera to an eight-inch satnav screen and radar cruise control. In fact, if you can get past the badge - or lack thereof - the Genesis looks like a rather tempting prospect.

Problem is, it's not coming to the UK. A Hyundai spokesman said there are currently no plans to release the Genesis in Europe and, even if there were, none of the current markets are right-hand drive.

More likely we'll see a coupe version of the Genesis, similar to the concept we saw in Las Vegas, some time in 2009. If it keeps that big V8 - and, even better, the £15,000 price tag - we'll be happy.

© Source: topgear
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