Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017) Review
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Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017) At A Glance
Elegant and understated. Well equipped and refined. Low used prices.
Badge snobbery counts against it. Thirsty petrol engine. Hard to track down.
The Hyundai Genesis saloon came to the UK 2015. It offered a superbly made and equipped alternative to premium offerings such as the Audi A6 and its German rival the BMW 5 Series, plus offbeat choices like the Infiniti Q70 and even the mainstream Skoda Superb. But it suffered from major depreciation and poor sales, so it’s a rare sight on the used market today. Read on for our full Hyundai Genesis review.
Before Genesis was launched as a standalone brand in the UK, the Hyundai Genesis saloon was introduced as a taster of what was to come.
Designed primarily for North America, the rear-wheel-drive Hyundai Genesis was somewhere between a BMW 5 Series and the luxurious BMW 7 Series in size, and it arrived in the UK with the objective of changing perceptions about the brand.
We’d be surprised if anyone who has a used BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 or Mercedes E-Class on their shopping list would be interested in the Hyundai Genesis, although it says more about brand perceptions and badge snobbery than it does about the car itself.
The Korean manufacturer had brought a range-topping saloon to the UK before.
Some might remember the Hyundai XG30 introduced in the 1990s. More recently, there was the Hyundai Grandeur, a large front-wheel-drive V6 saloon that was only available from one dealer.
The Hyundai Genesis was different. While those earlier models felt like a typical Hyundai scaled up to a large saloon, it felt every bit as much of a premium car as a BMW or Mercedes.
One version was available and it came with a 311PS 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox – as in most of its executive rivals.
The Hyundai Genesis was not cheap when new, but depreciation has ensured that the few used examples out there are remarkably good value now.
Fancy a new Genesis? Read our review of the Genesis G80 here.
Reviews for Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017)'s top 3 rivals
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Inside of the Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017)
- Boot space is 493 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4990 mm |
| Width | - |
| Height | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3010 mm |
Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017): Practicality
No matter how tall you are, you won’t struggle for space in the front of the Hyundai Genesis.
The seats are very accommodating and plushly upholstered, and you get electric adjustment as standard to add to the fine ambience.
It’s much the same story in the roomy rear seats, where there’s lots of space for two adults, or even three if you don’t mind sitting on the raised cushion of the centre pew.
The boot offers a 493-litre capacity, which is almost on a par with its key German rivals, but the space does narrow further in.
Still, 60-40 split-and-fold rear seats are standard, which is not the case with every contender in this area of the market.
Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017): Quality and finish
The quality of the materials and the general finish of the Hyundai Genesis demonstrate that this is very much a premium car.
The plastics, leather and other parts that occupants come into direct contact with feel like they belong in a BMW or Audi – something Hyundai has failed to achieve in some of its larger cars in the past.
Beige leather adds more traditional looking wood trim on the dashboard and doors, while grey or black brings a darker, more modern-looking timber finish.
The seats are covered in Nappa leather – a trim upgrade you’d usually have to pay extra for over the standard leather in other premium cars – with electric adjustment.
There are also electric blinds for rear passenger doors and the rear window, as well as a rear armrest-mounted console for audio controls.
Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017): Infotainment
The eight-inch touchscreen looked and felt suitably premium when the Hyundai Genesis was launched in 2015. It still seems acceptable today, as it works with Bluetooth to hook up to your phone.
Sat-nav was included as standard, although it’s not as good as you'll find on your smartphone now.
It also operates as the screen for the reversing camera and smart park assist.
Car seat chooser
Child seats that fit a Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017)
Our unique Car Seat Chooser shows you which child car seats will fit this car and which seat positions that they will fit, so that you don't have to check every car seat manufacturer's website for compatibility.Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017) Value
Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017): Prices
The used market can be hard on any car trying to break into the executive sector, which is dominated by the Germans companies.
In the case of the Hyundai Genesis, it lost around two-thirds of its new price in three years and 30,000 miles.
While it cost £49,530 new, by its third birthday, a Hyundai Genesis was worth £27,000.
Find one for sale today – which will be the biggest task you face, as so few were sold new in the UK – and you’ll pay around £9000 for a nine-year-old model from a dealer, with a full service record and only 60,000 miles on the dials.
This compares to the £15,000 that you’d pay for a BMW 535i saloon of the same age and mileage.
Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017): Running Costs
Road tax is going to come as a shock to anyone not used to heavy polluting cars registered prior to 1 April 2017.
With the Hyundai Genesis putting out 261g/km of CO2, you’ll pay an annual bill of £695. Ouch.
This is combined with unpromising fuel economy claimed at an official 25.2mpg. In fairness, our Real MPG data shows that to be very accurate thanks to the unstressed nature of the 3.8-litre V6 motor.
Maintenance should not throw up any worries, as the Hyundai Genesis is reliable and a Hyundai dealer is cheaper than those of most premium brands.
Insurance is a kicker, though, as the Hyundai Genesis sits in group 41 (out of 50). Premiums will be high.
Real MPG average for a Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
102%
Real MPG
23–30 mpg
MPGs submitted
3
Diesel or petrol? If you're unsure whether to go for a petrol or diesel (or even an electric model if it's available), then you need our Petrol or Diesel? calculator. It does the maths on petrols, diesels and electric cars to show which is best suited to you.
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Help us with the Honest John Satisfaction Index nowDriving Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017)
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 23–30 mpg
Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017): Handling and ride quality
The Hyundai Genesis has a powerful V6 petrol engine and rear-wheel drive – good ingredients to attract driving enthusiasts.
However, it is a little too big for gung-ho driving and it doesn’t suit the car’s character.
The front engine and rear-wheel-drive layout benefits weight distribution, aiding precision and smoother driving, but its handling is safe and secure rather than entertaining.
The driver gets a head-up display, ensuring they can read vital information or navigation instructions without having to look away from the road.
There are three driving modes – normal, eco and sport – giving drivers a choice on how the car responds by altering the electronically controlled air-suspension.
However, even though the stiffer setting of sport mode makes the car feel more nimble and stable, there’s little incentive to use it for long periods.
Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017): Engines
The Hyundai Genesis offers exceptional comfort and refinement. The 3.8-litre engine is barely audible and the eight-speed automatic transmission shifts almost imperceptibly.
Although maximum torque of 397Nm is reached at 5000rpm, around 90 per cent of it is available from just 2000rpm, so combined with the eight-speed transmission, the car never feels short of acceleration.
Hyundai has also succeeded in eliminating most noise intrusion to the cabin.
There’s no diesel variant, as this car was primarily developed for the US.
Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017): Safety
Euro NCAP didn’t crash test the Hyundai Genesis, but it did receive the highest ever score up to that point when assessed by the Australian version of the same testing procedure.
All come with nine airbags, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, ESP traction control, downhill brake assist, hill hold assistance, an active bonnet, adaptive cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring, reversing camera and rear cross traffic alert.
This was an impressive tally for 2015.
Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017): Towing
There are no official figures for towing capacities stated for the Hyundai Genesis, so it cannot tow a trailer in the UK.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.8 GDI | 25 mpg | 6.5 s | 261 g/km |
Hyundai Genesis (2015 – 2017) Models and Specs
You want for nothing in the one-trim-only Hyundai Genesis.
The car came as standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation, Nappa leather upholstery, electrically adjustable front seats, power folding 60/40 rear seat, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, and front and rear parking sensors.
All Hyundai Genesis models sold in the UK also have a parking assistance system, adaptive cruise control, nine airbags, lane departure warning with lane keeping assistance, alarm and tracking system, Bluetooth integration, soft door closing, a heated steering wheel and a head-up driver display.
You also have solar reflecting glass all round, hands-free boot opening and an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment set-up.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4990 mm |
| Width | - |
| Height | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3010 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1890 kg |
| Boot Space | 493 L |
| Warranty | 5 years / Unlimited miles |
| Servicing | 20000 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £51,655 |
| Insurance Groups | 41 |
| Road Tax Bands | M |
| Official MPG | 25.2 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | - |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Saloon 3.8GDi 315ps Auto 4dr | £51,655 | 25.2 mpg | 6.5 s |
Good
- Feels genuinely upmarket inside
- Exceptional refinement and comfort
- Long list of safety kit
Bad
- No diesel variant – only a thirsty petrol
- Finding one for sale is a challenge
- Doesn’t have the same image as prestige rivals
Model History
March 2014
Hyundai Genesis revealed
All-New Genesis is a high-technology premium sedan that clearly demonstrates Hyundai’s capabilities in a number of key areas, including technology, style, comfort and driving pleasure. Limited numbers of All-New Genesis will be made available in Europe, providing a select number of customers with a highly-capable and luxuriously-equipped executive sedan that rewards with high levels of comfort and calm.
Though the Genesis is the biggest, most fully-equipped and technologically advanced Hyundai model available in Europe, it delivers fully on the brand’s promise to provide value beyond expectations. Previewing advanced comfort and safety equipment and technology, All-New Genesis offers European customers an exclusive purchase proposition that focuses on refined performance and occupant well-being.
Available in a single, high-specification form, All-New Genesis is powered by a potent 3.8-litre V6 GDI engine which delivers plentiful power and torque across a broad range of engine speeds, and works in harmony with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission to deliver refined performance. Driving pleasure and security is ensured by the new, HTRAC all-wheel drive system, sophisticated multi-link front and rear suspension and near-equal weight distribution. (2WD only available in the UK)
The generous accommodation provided includes levels of space and comfort never before seen in a Hyundai vehicle in Europe, and cossets occupants in opulent comfort. The accommodation uses fine materials to present a serene ambience, supported by advanced architecture that delivers superior refinement under all conditions.
January 2015
Hyundai Genesis to be launched in the UK
Hyundai’s new high-technology premium saloon, the Genesis, will be available in the UK from 2nd April 2015, priced at £47,995 OTR. Available in limited numbers, the new flagship model will be sold exclusively via selected Hyundai dealerships nationwide.
A potent 3.8-litre V6 GDI engine delivers power to the rear wheels, working in conjunction with an eight-speed automatic transmission to ensure a smooth and serene driving experience.
Comfort is delivered through a combination of plentiful space and first-class seating finished in fine grain leather. The Genesis is equipped with a suite of intuitive yet unobtrusive new technologies, including an advanced driver infotainment system that displays detailed vehicle information on an 8” touch screen.
Advanced safety features include Smart Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking and the world’s first CO2 cabin sensor, which monitors the quality of the cabin environment and helps protect the driver from the dangers of drowsiness. Four cameras offer a 360-degree view of the vehicle at all times, providing assistance to the Rear Cross Traffic Alert system which warns drivers of approaching hazards when reversing from a parking space. Blind Spot Detection monitors traffic around the car while on the road and warns of approaching hazards. A head-up display projects important information into the driver’s line of sight, while visibility is aided further by Bi-Xenon headlights equipped with automatic high-beam assist function.
A myriad of convenience features fitted as standard include the Smart Boot System, which automatically opens the boot if the smart key is detected within close proximity for longer than three seconds. This system allows the driver to keep both feet comfortably on the ground, simply waiting by the boot for a few seconds for it to open automatically. Puddle lights, featuring the Genesis logo, illuminate the area around the doors, which are equipped with an automatic-closing mechanism.
The Genesis is available in a choice of seven specially selected metallic and pearlescent exterior colours, which have been chosen to best showcase the sleek lines of the car. To accentuate its spaciousness and offer a serene, relaxing experience, three elegant interior trim colour options are available.
Hyundai’s new high-technology premium saloon, All-New Genesis, will be available in the UK from 2 nd April 2015, priced at £47,995 OTR. Available in limited numbers, the new flagship model will be sold exclusively via selected Hyundai dealerships nationwide.
All-New Genesis clearly demonstrates Hyundai’s capabilities in the areas of innovative technology, luxurious comfort, craftsmanship and premium style, delivering on the brand’s promise to provide value beyond expectations. Available in the UK in a single high-specification form, All-New Genesis offers a unique opportunity to own the most refined and technologically advanced Hyundai ever made available in Europe.
A potent 3.8-litre V6 GDI engine delivers power to the rear wheels, working in conjunction with an eight-speed automatic transmission to ensure an effortlessly smooth and serene driving experience.
Demonstrating Hyundai’s latest design philosophy, the sophisticated exterior of All-New Genesis incorporates clean, fluid lines which sweep down its flanks. A long wheelbase with minimal overhangs ensures All-New Genesis projects a sophisticated exterior style which flows through to the interior where all occupants can enjoy true comfort and calm.
Cocooned inside a generous and luxurious cabin that makes use of the finest materials, driver and passengers are offered a true sense of opulence and serenity. Complete comfort is delivered through a combination of plentiful space and first-class seating finished in fine grain leather. All-New Genesis is equipped with a suite of intuitive yet unobtrusive new technologies, including an advanced driver infotainment system that displays detailed vehicle information on an 8” touch screen.
Advanced safety features include Smart Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking and the world’s first CO 2 cabin sensor, which monitors the quality of the cabin environment and helps protect the driver from the dangers of drowsiness. Four cameras offer a 360-degree view of the vehicle at all times, providing assistance to the Rear Cross Traffic Alert system which warns drivers of approaching hazards when reversing from a parking space. Blind Spot Detection monitors traffic around the car while on the road and warns of approaching hazards. A head-up display projects important information into the driver’s line of sight, while visibility is aided further by Bi-Xenon headlights equipped with automatic high-beam assist function.
A myriad of convenience features fitted as standard include the Smart Boot System, which automatically opens the boot if the smart key is detected within close proximity for longer than three seconds. This system allows the driver to keep both feet comfortably on the ground, simply waiting by the boot for a few seconds for it to open automatically. Puddle lights, featuring the Genesis logo, illuminate the area around the doors, which are equipped with an automatic-closing mechanism.
All-New Genesis is available in a choice of seven specially selected metallic and pearlescent exterior colours, which have been chosen to best showcase the sleek lines of the car. To accentuate its spaciousness and offer a serene, relaxing experience, three elegant interior trim colour options are available.
Echoing the premium ambiance of the vehicle itself, selected Hyundai dealerships will introduce bespoke Genesis retail display areas. Featuring high quality furniture and premium materials, the Genesis area of the dealership will also be staffed by a specially trained member of staff fully versed in all aspects of the vehicle.
- See more at: http://www.hyundaipressoffice.co.uk/release/611/#sthash.fFbxM4g7.dpufHyundai’s new high-technology premium saloon, All-New Genesis, will be available in the UK from 2 nd April 2015, priced at £47,995 OTR. Available in limited numbers, the new flagship model will be sold exclusively via selected Hyundai dealerships nationwide.
All-New Genesis clearly demonstrates Hyundai’s capabilities in the areas of innovative technology, luxurious comfort, craftsmanship and premium style, delivering on the brand’s promise to provide value beyond expectations. Available in the UK in a single high-specification form, All-New Genesis offers a unique opportunity to own the most refined and technologically advanced Hyundai ever made available in Europe.
A potent 3.8-litre V6 GDI engine delivers power to the rear wheels, working in conjunction with an eight-speed automatic transmission to ensure an effortlessly smooth and serene driving experience.
Demonstrating Hyundai’s latest design philosophy, the sophisticated exterior of All-New Genesis incorporates clean, fluid lines which sweep down its flanks. A long wheelbase with minimal overhangs ensures All-New Genesis projects a sophisticated exterior style which flows through to the interior where all occupants can enjoy true comfort and calm.
Cocooned inside a generous and luxurious cabin that makes use of the finest materials, driver and passengers are offered a true sense of opulence and serenity. Complete comfort is delivered through a combination of plentiful space and first-class seating finished in fine grain leather. All-New Genesis is equipped with a suite of intuitive yet unobtrusive new technologies, including an advanced driver infotainment system that displays detailed vehicle information on an 8” touch screen.
Advanced safety features include Smart Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking and the world’s first CO 2 cabin sensor, which monitors the quality of the cabin environment and helps protect the driver from the dangers of drowsiness. Four cameras offer a 360-degree view of the vehicle at all times, providing assistance to the Rear Cross Traffic Alert system which warns drivers of approaching hazards when reversing from a parking space. Blind Spot Detection monitors traffic around the car while on the road and warns of approaching hazards. A head-up display projects important information into the driver’s line of sight, while visibility is aided further by Bi-Xenon headlights equipped with automatic high-beam assist function.
A myriad of convenience features fitted as standard include the Smart Boot System, which automatically opens the boot if the smart key is detected within close proximity for longer than three seconds. This system allows the driver to keep both feet comfortably on the ground, simply waiting by the boot for a few seconds for it to open automatically. Puddle lights, featuring the Genesis logo, illuminate the area around the doors, which are equipped with an automatic-closing mechanism.
All-New Genesis is available in a choice of seven specially selected metallic and pearlescent exterior colours, which have been chosen to best showcase the sleek lines of the car. To accentuate its spaciousness and offer a serene, relaxing experience, three elegant interior trim colour options are available.
Echoing the premium ambiance of the vehicle itself, selected Hyundai dealerships will introduce bespoke Genesis retail display areas. Featuring high quality furniture and premium materials, the Genesis area of the dealership will also be staffed by a specially trained member of staff fully versed in all aspects of the vehicle.
- See more at: http://www.hyundaipressoffice.co.uk/release/611/#sthash.fFbxM4g7.dpufHyundai’s new high-technology premium saloon, All-New Genesis, will be available in the UK from 2 nd April 2015, priced at £47,995 OTR. Available in limited numbers, the new flagship model will be sold exclusively via selected Hyundai dealerships nationwide.
All-New Genesis clearly demonstrates Hyundai’s capabilities in the areas of innovative technology, luxurious comfort, craftsmanship and premium style, delivering on the brand’s promise to provide value beyond expectations. Available in the UK in a single high-specification form, All-New Genesis offers a unique opportunity to own the most refined and technologically advanced Hyundai ever made available in Europe.
A potent 3.8-litre V6 GDI engine delivers power to the rear wheels, working in conjunction with an eight-speed automatic transmission to ensure an effortlessly smooth and serene driving experience.
Demonstrating Hyundai’s latest design philosophy, the sophisticated exterior of All-New Genesis incorporates clean, fluid lines which sweep down its flanks. A long wheelbase with minimal overhangs ensures All-New Genesis projects a sophisticated exterior style which flows through to the interior where all occupants can enjoy true comfort and calm.
Cocooned inside a generous and luxurious cabin that makes use of the finest materials, driver and passengers are offered a true sense of opulence and serenity. Complete comfort is delivered through a combination of plentiful space and first-class seating finished in fine grain leather. All-New Genesis is equipped with a suite of intuitive yet unobtrusive new technologies, including an advanced driver infotainment system that displays detailed vehicle information on an 8” touch screen.
Advanced safety features include Smart Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking and the world’s first CO 2 cabin sensor, which monitors the quality of the cabin environment and helps protect the driver from the dangers of drowsiness. Four cameras offer a 360-degree view of the vehicle at all times, providing assistance to the Rear Cross Traffic Alert system which warns drivers of approaching hazards when reversing from a parking space. Blind Spot Detection monitors traffic around the car while on the road and warns of approaching hazards. A head-up display projects important information into the driver’s line of sight, while visibility is aided further by Bi-Xenon headlights equipped with automatic high-beam assist function.
A myriad of convenience features fitted as standard include the Smart Boot System, which automatically opens the boot if the smart key is detected within close proximity for longer than three seconds. This system allows the driver to keep both feet comfortably on the ground, simply waiting by the boot for a few seconds for it to open automatically. Puddle lights, featuring the Genesis logo, illuminate the area around the doors, which are equipped with an automatic-closing mechanism.
All-New Genesis is available in a choice of seven specially selected metallic and pearlescent exterior colours, which have been chosen to best showcase the sleek lines of the car. To accentuate its spaciousness and offer a serene, relaxing experience, three elegant interior trim colour options are available.
Echoing the premium ambiance of the vehicle itself, selected Hyundai dealerships will introduce bespoke Genesis retail display areas. Featuring high quality furniture and premium materials, the Genesis area of the dealership will also be staffed by a specially trained member of staff fully versed in all aspects of the vehicle.
- See more at: http://www.hyundaipressoffice.co.uk/release/611/#sthash.fFbxM4g7.dpuf