To be completely honest, labeling the 2009 Hyundai Genesis as merely a performance sedan, is a bit misleading.  The word often used to describe its benchmarks, such as Mercedes E-Class, Infiniti M and Lexus GS, must also be applied to the Genesis.  Hyundai is leading off the race of future performance vehicles in its fleet with this luxury-based performance sedan.  The Korean automaker’s plan was to deliver a $60,000 vehicle at a $30,000 price tag and after a year and half of testing, they've finally completed their task.

Consumers will have the choice of three power plants, including a 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter V6 DOHC engine producing 268 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque and 290 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque, respectively.  For those who hunger a bit more asperity under the hood, you’ll find it with Hyundai’s all new 4.6-liter Tau V8.  Delivering 368 horsepower, the Genesis will sprint to the 0-60mph mark in the sub 6-second range.

The V6 engines employ a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive torque converter lock-up to aid highway fuel economy.  Expect the all new ZF Shiftronic gearbox attached to the V8 model. 

To further help with fuel economy, Hyundai was able to keep the weight of Genesis’ unibody below that of the BMW 5 series or Mercedes E-class.  Notwithstanding this benefit, the body structure is 12 to 14 percent stiffer than the same German sedans.

Expect the usual high-end amenities, such as electronic stability control, XM NavTraffic, adaptive headlights, radar-based active cruise control, a 500-watt 17-speaker Lexicon audio system, and electronic active head restraints.  The interior will be clad in leather with optional seat warmer/cooling functionality all enveloped by a total of 8 air bags.  More luxury goodies include a total of 8 front and rear bumper sensors for parking assist, a power rear sun-shade, automatic parking brake, proximity key and push button start.  Stay tuned to RPMPlanets as more information becomes available.