2013 Hyundai Genesis Expert Review

Vehicle Overview

A favorite of American Express Black Card holders (six-percent of them own a Hyundai), the Hyundai Genesis sedan enters 2013 with a minor changes that make it even more of a bargain, potentially irking Mercedes-Benz and Lexus product planners. The Genesis' base engine is a 3.8-liter V-6 that makes 333 hp and 291 lb-ft of torque, while throwing about $10,000 more on the table nets you the Genesis R-Spec, which is powered by a 5.0-liter V-8, which churns out 429 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic. For those whose prime concern is fuel economy, you'll be happy to know that the Genesis V-6 is EPA rated at 19/29 mpg city/highway, while the V-8-powered R-Spec is rated at 17/26 mpg.

We've had lots of experience with the Genesis R-Spec sedan and, for the most part, we like it. Of the 5.0-liter V-8, we said that it's "as smooth and quiet as they come," and gets the car from 0-60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. We did find the R-Spec badging to be a bit much: "Though a fun ride overall, turn-in is a very tricky and touchy thing to master, requiring a hefty dosage of quick on-off throttle inputs to induce smooth rotation. In the figure-eight the car was fun to drive, but doesn't live up to its bold R-Spec naming."

For 2013, Hyundai drops the mid-level 4.6-liter V-8, leaving just the V-6 and big V-8 offerings. Other changes consist of a revised navigation system, and new safety tech like lane guidance.

New for 2013

Hyundai has eliminated the mid-level 4.6-liter V-8 for 2013, leaving the R-Spec's 5.0-liter V-8 as the only eight-cylinder engine option. Other changes include a revised navigation system, which now includes features like Zagat reviews, album art, and the capability to store up to 64 GB of music, photos, or videos.