2010 Hyundai Genesis Review Summary
Although most people tend to see Hyundai as a budget brand, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis, ranked 6 by ACG in the Upscale Midsize Cars class, goes a long way toward changing that perception. Indeed, many reviewers find the Genesis to compete admirably with more expensive luxury vehicles such as those built by BMW and Lexus. The Genesis is available in two trim levels: the 3.8 model, which features 17-inch alloy wheels, leather trim and a wide array of electronics, as well as the 4.6 model, which comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth, premium leather, and superior navigation and sound systems. As far as performance is concerned, the Genesis is a fine commuter car, but doesn’t exactly have the sporty or confident handling of the more costly luxury vehicles. Power wise, several reviewers recommended that buyers opt for the less expensive, more fuel efficient V6, which gives 290 horsepower. The one draw to the V8 that cannot be overlooked, however, is touchscreen navigation and the fantastic stereo system that those choosing the V6 can only get as expensive options. The exterior and interior of the Genesis has drawn both praise and criticism. Some reviewers believe Hyundai took too much of a cue from more established luxury cars, and the result is that the Genesis lacks an identity. Others, however, simply feel the Genesis has a sleek and handsome look. The Genesis’ interior cabin offers a classy walnut trim and leather-lined dashboard, as well as other high quality features such as voice-recognition capability and an optional stereo system that is among the best in its class. That said, modern appointments such as aluminum trim are unavailable and might disappoint some consumers. Reviewers found both the Genesis’ front and back seats to be comfortable for adults, and the trunk space, which boasts 15.9 cubic feet, is more than adequate. It is important to note, however, that cargo space is limited due to the fact that the rear seats do not fold down. Overall, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis is a great option for those in the market for an affordable car that provides a nice ride along with a good amount of luxury. This model no longer allows consumers to pigeon hole Hyundai as a cheap car manufacturer.
2010 Hyundai Genesis Review Handling
The consensus among reviewers is that handling is the Genesis’ primary short coming. The Genesis is tuned softly, but does not offer much of a sporty ride. It also falls short in the hard cornering tests that some automotive publications rely on. On the positive side, Hyundai claims to have re-tuned the Genesis’ suspension for 2010 in an effort to improve handling, and reviewers agree that the breaks on the Genesis are more than adequate.
2010 Hyundai Genesis Review Safety
The federal government gave the 2010 Genesis five stars in front and side impact crash tests. The Genesis also received five stars for its ability to prevent a rollover accident. Standard safety equipment on the Genesis includes: four wheel antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, and active front head restraints that help reduce the chances of a whiplash injury in a rear-impact accident. Some of the Genesis’ competitors offer more high tech features, however, such as a blind-sport warning system, which is standard on the Lexus ES.
2010 Hyundai Genesis Noteworthy
The 2009 version of the Genesis won Hyundai its first North American Car of the Year award—a tremendous acknowledgement from the automotive press.
