When Hyundai created the Genesis sedan, it wasn't just trying to make a better family car. It was trying to be taken seriously as a maker of luxury cars in the highly competitive North American market while hewing to its core brand promise of value for the dollar. So the Genesis is aimed straight at cars like the Mercedes Benz E-class and Lexus LS but at a much lower price.
The Genesis is roomy car with a nicely designed interior lined with plenty of leather and wood grain. It's even available with a powerful V8 engine.
The Genesis lacks only a little around the edges compared to its genuine luxury brand competitors. The steering, for instance, doesn't adjust as nicely to higher speeds, feeling too twitchy in freeway driving. Some of the interior materials also seem a tad cheap, like imitations of the finer stuff in a more expensive car. Also, the car's lack of any badge on the grill makes it seem embarrassed of its humble lineage.
In all, though, the differences in quality are no match for the differences in price. Your friends may not be impressed with the brand name, but give them a ride and they'll be impressed with your financial savvy.
NEXT: Toyota Avalon Limited
