Rear-Wheel Drive and V-8 Engine Promise World Class Dynamics and Refinement
Hyundai will present the world debut of Concept Genesis during a press conference at the New York International Auto Show on the 4th of April. The concept car heralds the future architecture and design of a rear-wheel drive premium sports sedan, scheduled to grace the Hyundai lineup in 2008.
“Concept Genesis extends our product range into new territories from a performance, design and packaging perspective,” said Steve Wilhite, chief operating officer, Hyundai Motor America. “When it arrives in 2008 it will catapult Hyundai into competition against some potent rivals, and Genesis is up for the challenge.”
The Genesis concept rides on a prototype of Hyundai’s all-new, rear-wheel drive platform, signaling the brand’s desire to broaden its appeal to discerning driving enthusiasts. The vehicle will be powered by Hyundai’s newly developed Tau DOHC 32-valve V-8 powertrain.
NEW REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE ARCHITECTURE IS A FIRST FOR HYUNDAI.
Concept Genesis features a rear-wheel-drive arc well as more refined steering characteristics. Concept Genesis’ premium handling and steering performance is further controlled by Electronic Stability Control (ESC), the industry’s most important new safety technology. Hyundai leads all popular car brands in the standard application of ESC, with more than 70 percent of 2007 Hyundai sales featuring this life-saving technology as standard equipment.
Utilizing ultra high-tensile steel in critical areas in the unibody provides the Concept Genesis with a 12-14 percent higher dynamic torsional rigidity and a lower weight than the BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This stiffer, lighter, larger body provides a terrific foundation for world-class dynamics and lowering noise levels inside the vehicle.
Tau v-8 powertrain
Adding to the Concept Genesis’ performance is the all-new Tau 4.6-liter V8 engine boasting CVVT technology, mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual control and a limited-slip differential. The Tau delivers well over 300 horsepower to suit the demands of performance-oriented consumers, which equates to 223 kW of power, and a torque figure of 606 Nm. This powertrain combination will launch the Genesis to 100 km/h in well under six seconds.
INNOVATIVE AND SOPHISTICATED SPORT-TUNED SUSPENSION
Genesis features a suspension design that is among the most sophisticated and refined anywhere, with five-link suspension in the front and rear that reduces unwanted kickback while enabling precise suspension geometry for an incredible level of ride and handling prowess. The capabilities of the advanced front and rear-suspension are maximized through driver selectable dynamic settings allowing tailored ride and handling characteristics according to need.
MODERN DESIGN
Genesis’ design is a progressive interpretation of the modern rear-wheel drive sports sedan. To match its dynamic powertrain capabilities, Genesis combines strong, sculpted forms which integrate precise details, natural materials and innovative lighting to provide a well-crafted, premium design aesthetic.
SAFETY FEATURES
Maintaining Hyundai’s emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Concept Genesis boasts world class active and passive safety features to both prevent accidents, and maximize the well being of its occupants in the event of a collision. The Genesis continues the Hyundai tradition of standardizing key life-saving active safety technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with traction control, adaptive leveling headlamps for increased nighttime visibility, eight airbags and active headrests.
Concept Genesis is brought to a halt by anti-lock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), further ensuring class-leading safety.
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
The Concept Genesis promises sheer luxury, and delivers upon this through an extensive range of features that include adaptive cruise control, heat/cool seats, navigation with back-up camera and Bluetooth technology. The Genesis will also feature a push-button start and an Infinity Discrete Surround Audio System that will offer the driver crystal-clear sound, even though the interior is whisper-quiet.
WORLD-CLASS PRODUCT
“Concept Genesis is a manifestation of Hyundai’s extraordinary desire to deliver world-class products across all model segments,” said John Krafcik, vice president of Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America.
“With Genesis, we’ve got a unique product position — an all-new, highly capable, rear-wheel drive platform; a high-performance powertrain; and premium, progressive design.”
