Hyundai unveils second-generation Genesis luxury saloon
The 2014 Hyundai Genesis makes its official debut in Seoul, introducing new engines, updated styling and a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive.
Hyundai has revealed the new-generation Genesis saloon at a launch event in Seoul, marking the official debut of the 2014 model. The unveiling took place in November 2013, with the car making its first appearance in the automaker’s home country. The second-generation Genesis arrives with a revised platform, an updated engine range, and the company’s latest design language. Hyundai aims to position the Genesis as a contender among premium executive saloons, targeting established European and Japanese rivals.
Introduction and Launch Details
Design and Dimensions
The 2014 Genesis adopts Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 styling, most evident in the large hexagonal grille with a semi-gloss chrome surround and new HID headlights. LED taillights and a more sculpted profile set it apart from the outgoing model and reflect Hyundai’s efforts to give the car a more modern and upscale appearance. The overall length of the car is 4,990 mm, with a width of 1,890 mm (excluding mirrors), a height of 1,480 mm, and a wheelbase of 3,010 mm. These dimensions put the Genesis in line with other executive saloons, offering a spacious interior for both front and rear passengers.
Wheel choices for the 2014 Genesis range from 17 to 19 inches, allowing buyers to tailor the car’s appearance and ride characteristics. The new model sits on a platform that offers rear-wheel drive as standard, and for the first time in the Genesis’s history, all-wheel drive is available as an option. This addition is intended to broaden the car’s appeal in markets where all-wheel drive is valued for improved traction and handling in adverse weather conditions.
Interior Improvements and Features
Inside, the second-generation Genesis features a reworked cabin with higher-grade materials throughout. Hyundai has focused on enhancing the premium feel, with soft-touch surfaces, improved trim, and an updated design for the dashboard and controls. The interior storage space has also been increased, now totalling 26.9 litres, which is an increase of 3.7 litres over the previous model. This improvement is intended to provide more practicality for everyday use, complementing the car’s executive positioning.
The seating is expected to offer more comfort and adjustability, and while specific equipment details were not disclosed at the launch, Hyundai’s emphasis on upmarket materials and finishes suggests a focus on luxury and convenience features. The interior layout is designed to be more user-friendly, with improved ergonomics and better use of space, aiming to meet the expectations of buyers in the premium saloon segment.
Engine Range and Transmission
The 2014 Genesis is offered with a range of four engines, all of which have been updated for the new model. The entry-level 3.0-litre V6 produces 257 hp and 303 Nm of torque, while the 3.3-litre V6 delivers 282 hp and 347 Nm. For buyers seeking more power, the 3.8-litre V6 is rated at 315 hp and 397 Nm. At the top of the range, a 5.0-litre V8 produces 425 hp and 519 Nm of torque. All engine options are paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth shifts and improved efficiency across the range.
| Engine | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) |
|---|---|---|
| 3.0-litre V6 | 257 | 303 |
| 3.3-litre V6 | 282 | 347 |
| 3.8-litre V6 | 315 | 397 |
| 5.0-litre V8 | 425 | 519 |
The availability of both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, combined with the range of engines, allows Hyundai to appeal to a broader customer base. The all-wheel drive system is a new addition for the Genesis, and is likely to be of particular interest in markets with challenging weather conditions or where buyers prioritise all-weather capability.
Market Positioning and Future Plans
Hyundai positions the Genesis as a premium saloon, aiming to compete with established rivals from Europe and Japan. The new model’s platform, engine range, and equipment levels are intended to move it further upmarket compared to its predecessor. The addition of all-wheel drive and a focus on higher-quality materials signal Hyundai’s ambition to attract buyers who might otherwise consider more traditional luxury brands.
At the time of the Seoul launch, Hyundai did not announce pricing details for the 2014 Genesis. However, the company has confirmed plans to offer the Genesis in additional markets, including Europe, at a later stage. This international rollout is expected to help Hyundai strengthen its presence in the premium segment and compete more directly with established executive saloons.
The 2014 Genesis marks a significant step for Hyundai, as it is the first time the model has been offered with all-wheel drive alongside the traditional rear-wheel drive layout. This change is likely to broaden the car’s appeal, particularly in regions where all-wheel drive is a key selling point.
