Volkswagen Up!

About the Volkswagen Up! we heard first four years ago when at the Frankfurt 2007 autoshow was presented in world premiere the concept Up!.Now at Frankfurt 2011 is the turn to be the production model officially introduced.

The production car as many expected is very similar to the concept car.Volkswagen Up! has very small dimensions.

The interior seems to be very spacious mainly because Volkswagen spent a lot of time studying the interior ergonomics of the car.VW Up! makes its debut of a new generation of cylinder gas engines of 1 liter producing between 59 and 74 HP.

With the help of the Start&Stop system this car can get 70 Mpg.Starting 2013 the Up! will be also sold with an electric engine.The new Up! will be available on the european market this year in December.

Lincoln MKZ

The Lincoln MKZ, initially named the Lincoln Zephyr, is a mid-size, entry-level luxury car from the Lincoln division of the Ford Motor Company. Lincoln revived the Zephyr name in the fall of 2005 as a platform-mate for the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan; the vehicles were based on the CD3 platform, which was derived from the Mazda 6. The Zephyr's sole powertrain was a 3.0 L DOHC Duratec V6 mated to an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission; identical to the V6 powertrain that was optional in the Fusion and Milan. Visually, the Zephyr could be easily distinguished from its Ford and Mercury siblings thanks to unique fascias and other stylistic elements, but as much as 35% of its body panels were shared with the other cars. However, the interior is entirely unique to the Lincoln, and this, along with different equipment packaging, helped differentiate the brands. Reflecting its entry-level luxury position, the 2006 Zephyr started at a base MSRP of $29,995 USD, ranging up to $35,575 USD when fully optioned.^[2]

Though slightly smaller and natively front-wheel drive, the Zephyr was marketed as a replacement for Lincoln's previous entry level mid-size, the rear-wheel drive, V8-equipped Lincoln LS. To facilitate a smooth transition, the Zephyr and LS were sold parallel to each other during the 2006 model year, the first model year of the Zephyr and the last for the LS. Ironically the Zephyr's first model year was also its last, in name. For 2007 the car was renamed MKZ, and took over the LS' market with sales beginning in September 2006. Lincoln's decision to resurrect the Zephyr name refers to the very early days of Lincoln before World War II. At that time, the only Lincoln manufactured was the Lincoln K-series which was a full-size sedan, and Lincoln, under the direction of Edsel Ford, Henry Ford's only son, hoped to indroduce a smaller product to compete with the LaSalle, a smaller sibling offered at Cadillac dealerships. The Zephyr moniker was discontinued after a year, switching to MKZ to align with Lincoln's alphanumeric naming strategy. Previously during the early 1980s, the Zephyr name reappeared on a compact sedan called the Mercury Zephyr, a twin of the Ford Fairmont, however the Mercury Zephyr was replaced after a short period of time with the Mercury Topaz, itself a twin of the Ford Tempo.

Highlighting the MKZ for 2007, other than the new name, was a mild exterior refresh, optional all-wheel drive, and a larger displacement engine with more power. The MKZ name followed a new nomenclature used at Lincoln for new vehicles beginning in the 2007 model year (existing models such as the Navigator and Town Car have been unaffected thus far). Ford initially intended the "MK" to represent an abbreviation of its traditional "Mark" naming series, but has since abandoned that in favor of simply reading the letters.^[3] The Lincoln MKZ (and the Zephyr before it) is built at Ford's Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, plant.
The MKZ was the first in this series of new "MK"-named Lincolns, and has since been followed by the MKX, MKT and MKS. For 2010 the MKZ was revised with new exterior and interior styling along with other new features. A version hybrid was launched in the U.S. market in September 2010, becoming EPA's most fuel efficient luxury sedan in the U.S. until the release of the 2011 Lexus CT 200h.^[4][5] The MKZ Hybrid is also the first (as and of July 2011, the only) hybrid in the market priced the same as its conventional gasoline-engine version (although the hybrid model's engine has two fewer cylinders than the gasoline-engine model).

MKZ (2010–present)

The 2010 MKZ was unveiled at the 2008 Los Angeles International Auto Show, revealing an extensive update with a revised interior and exterior in addition to new features. The MKZ's exterior was updated with an emphasis on the front and rear fascias. In the front, the MKZ's headlights are new while its fascia and split-wing grille closely resembles that of the Lincoln MKS, which was in turn inspired by the styling of the Lincoln MKR concept. In the rear, the taillights have been revised to be longer and thinner, similar to the original Zephyr concept. The MKZ's standard and optional 17-inch wheels have been restyled again and are supplemented with a new 18-inch wheel option. Inside, the MKZ's interior is all-new stylistically but continues to extensively use real wood accents and metal surfaces. Higher quality Bridge of Weir leather seating surfaces are standard. Other features new for 2010 include a reverse camera system, Sirius Travel Link, a DVD-based satellite navigation system updated to accept voice commands, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a cabin air filter, and adaptive HID headlights. Mechanically, the MKZ features new suspension tuning to further improve ride quality and handling and a new SelectShift 6-speed automatic transmission that improves acceleration. The 2010 MKZ was released during the Spring of 2009.The 2011 MKZ Hybrid was unveiled at the 2010 New York International Auto Show^[17] and sales began in September 2010.^[18] It is the first Lincoln hybrid electric vehicle and the first Lincoln model with a 4-cylinder engine and delivers an EPA city rating of 41 mpg_-US (5.7 L/100 km; 49 mpg_-imp) and a highway rating of 36 mpg_-US (6.5 L/100 km; 43 mpg_-imp), which made it the most fuel efficient luxury sedan in the U.S. until the release of the 2011 Lexus CT 200h in March 2011.^[4] The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid carries over the hybrid powertrain from the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids, including the 2.5 L Duratec I4 with electric motor producing a total of 191 hp (142 kW).^[17][19] The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid has an E.V. mode that allows the car to travel short distances on electricity alone, at speeds up to 47 mph (76 km/h).^[6] The MKZ Hybrid offers an improvement of Ford's Smart Gauge with EcoGuide, first introduced in the 2010 Fusion Hybrid.The MKZ Smart Gauge version offers a new "Flower" design compared to the "Leaf" design of the Fusion. In essence, the car rewards you with flower blossoms for economic driving/driving habits.
The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is marketed by Ford as a competitor to the Lexus HS 250h, and as of July 2011 it is the only hybrid in the market with the same price as its conventional gasoline-engine version of the car.^[6][20] Ford reported that until June 2011, about 20% of 2011 MKZ sales have been hybrids, and the market share is even higher in markets where hybrids in general sell well, such as the Los Angeles region, where sales of the hybrid model represent 44%, and the San Francisco area, with a market share of 66%.^[6] The MKZ Hyrid base price is US$35,520, and with popular options including a sunroof, navigation system, blind spot monitors, a THX surround-sound stereo and a backup camera the price rises to US$41,370.^[6]

A complete redesign of the Ford Fusion line-up is schedule for model years 2013.^[21] Both the Lincoln MKZ and the Fusion Hybrid are expected to use a new compact lithium-ion batterypack and an updated powertrain that is expected to deliver a higher fuel economy of up to 47 to 48 mpg_US (4.9 to 5.0 L/100 km; 56 to 58 mpg_imp) highway. The next generation Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is expected to be launched by mid-2012.^[22][23]
The MKZ Hybrid was one of the five finalists for the 2011 Green Car of the Year awarded by the Green Car Journal in November 2010, which was won by the Chevrolet Volt.^[24] In its 2011 Hybrid Scorecard, the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) ranked the MKZ Hybrid, together with the Lexus CT200h, as the top luxury hybrid models in the scorecard’s environmental improvement category, an achievement the UCS attributed to their relatively small gasoline engines.^[25] Nevertheless, the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid ranked higher than the Lexus on all factors: consumer value, hybrid technology, fuel efficiency and pollution reduction. Also, the UCS praised the MKZ Hybrid, together with the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, because both hybrids are available with few or no forced features that inflate the cost without adding to fuel savings or reducing emissions.^[6] The UCS's Hybrid Scorecard ratings for the MKZ Hybrid are higher than the non-luxury Toyota Prius for environmental performance, and hybrid vale; both are rated the same for forced features; and the Prius scores higher in fuel economy.

Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer is a full-size crossover SUV sold in North America and built by the Ford Motor Company since 1990, as a replacement for the smaller but related Ford Bronco II. It is manufactured in Chicago, Illinois (it was also assembled in Hazelwood, Missouri until the plant closed on March 10, 2006). The Ford Explorer was instrumental in turning the SUV from a special-interest vehicle into one of the most popular vehicle types on the road. It is marked as a mid-sized crossover SUV and is slotted between the larger Ford Expedition and the smaller Ford Escape.
The Explorer has also been involved in controversy, after a spate of fatal rollover accidents involving Explorers fitted with Firestone tires. Both two-door Explorer Sport and four-door models of Explorer have been sold. Part-time four-wheel drive is an available option, and since 1995 this has been a 'shift on the fly' system with full protection against being engaged at high speed. A specially modified Special Service Vehicle version is also available from Ford Fleet for law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and EMS agencies. Explorer was also the name of a trim package offered on the Ford F-Series trucks from 1968 to 1986. The 2011 Ford Explorer was named North American Truck of the Year.

Fifth generation (2011–)

The fifth generation 2011 Explorer takes cues from the Explorer America concept's construction, and includes a monocoque (unibody) structure based on the D4 platform, a modified version of the D3 platform.^[12][13] The new Explorer features blacked-out A, B, and D-pillars to produce a floating roof effect similar to Land Rover’s floating roof design used on its sport utility vehicles. Ford already uses this floating roof design on the Ford Flex. The Explorer's C-pillar remains body colored. It also gets sculpted body work with stepped style headlamps similar to the Flex, Edge, Escape, Expedition and F-150. In addition, the Explorer receives new stepped style tail lamps. The grille will receive the corporate three-bar design with upper and lower perforated mesh work, similar to that of the sixth-generation Taurus.
The Explorer's chief design engineer is Jim Holland, who was also a chief design engineer for Land Rover. Holland is responsible for the design of the current generation Land Rover Range Rover (L322). Holland also worked on the outgoing Ford Expedition (U324) during its initial development.^[14]

The fifth generation 2011 Explorer, developed under the U502 program code name,^[15] made its debut online on July 26, 2010. Ford had set up a Ford Explorer Facebook page ahead of its debut.^[16] Assembly of the fifth-generation Explorer moved to Ford's Chicago Assembly plant, where it is built alongside the Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS. The Louisville plant, where the previous generation was built, was converted to produce cars based on Ford's global C platform (potentially including the Ford Focus, Ford C-Max, and Ford Kuga).^[17] Like the Escape, the Explorer will continue to be marketed as an "SUV" rather than a "crossover SUV". It went on sale in early 2011; pre-launch sales had by the end of November 2010 totaled around 15,000.^[18]

Features

Available features include intelligent access with push button start, remote engine start, power liftgate, power adjustable pedals with memory, premium leather trimmed seating, heated and cooled front seats, dual headrest DVD entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, active park assist, SIRIUS Travel Link, MyFord Touch, Ford SYNC by Microsoft, Sony audio system with HD radio and Apple iTunes tagging, in-dash advanced navigation system, SoundScreen laminated acoustic and solar tinted windshield with rain-sensing wipers, 20-inch polished V-spoke aluminium wheels, high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and LED tail lamps.

Capability

The Explorer is available in either front-wheel-drive or full-time four-wheel-drive. Only one engine was initially available: a standard 3.5 Liter TiVCT twin independent variable camshaft timing V6 (290 hp, 255 lb·ft (346 N·m) of torque) mated to a 6-speed 6F automatic with a 6-speed 6F SelectShift automatic as a option.
A second optional engine will become available in 2011: a 2.0 liter EcoBoost turbocharged, direct injected I-4 (237 hp, 250 lb·ft (340 N·m) of torque) mated to a 6-speed 6F automatic. The I-4 engine will not be available with the optional 6-speed 6F SelectShift automatic and will only be available in front-wheel-drive form.^[19][20]

The Explorer is available with full-time Intelligent four-wheel drive using open front & rear differentials with 3.39:1 gearing and an electronic center coupling by Haldex. The electronic center coupling controls the front-to-rear torque distribution (torque split) between the front & rear drive wheels and acts as a center differential to allow for full-time operation. The power take off (PTO) unit has a heavy-duty dedicated cooling system to allow the front drive based, four-wheel drive system to supply continuous non-stop torque delivery to all four wheels indefinitely without overheating.^[21] "4WD" badging is also included on the rear liftgate.^[22][23] Explorer’s overall off road crawl ratio is 15.19:1 with high range gearing only.
Off road electronics include Hill Descent Control (HDC), Hill Ascent Assist (HAA), 4-wheel electronic traction control and Terrain Management.
4-wheel electronic traction control (ABS braking) is employed to force the open front & rear differentials to behave like limited-slip differentials, transferring torque from side-to-side.^[21] In the right conditions, the Explorer can keep moving even if only one front wheel has traction.
Terrain Management will include four selectable modes. Each mode can be selected via a rotary control dial on the center console, aft of the transmission shifter.

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is an off-road/performance pickup truck manufactured by the Ford Motor Company.

Background

The Raptor is a modified F-150 truck intended for high speed off road use, available in extended cab or crew cab models only.^[1] Inspired by the prerunners used by high-dollar off road teams, it brings a variety of off road features. Developed by the Special Vehicle Team (SVT) at Ford, the Raptor was used as a test bed for further engineering validation for the new 6.2-liter (379 cu in) V8. The truck itself ran in 2008 Baja 1000 where it finished third in class. With 5300 confirmed orders, first year Raptor sales have exceeded 1999's Lightning production numbers. The Raptor began hitting showrooms in late 2009. Sales were much better than expected. April 2011, Ford sold 1,186 Raptors, outselling Honda's Ridgeline.^[2]

Engine

Engine choices have included the 5.4L V8 with 320 horsepower (235 kW) and 390 ft·lbf (528 N·m) of torque or the 6.2L V8 with 411 horsepower (306 kW) and 434 ft·lbf (588 N·m) of torque. In 2011, the 5.4 was discontinued and replaced with the 6.2 as standard engine.^[3][4][5] The 6.2L V8 Engine gives the Raptor the lowest towing capacity and fuel economy in the entire model range.^[6]

Gas Mileage

The Ford Raptor's fuel economy is rated at 11 miles per US gallon (21 L/100 km) city and 14 miles per US gallon (17 L/100 km) highway.^{[citation needed]}

Body, Frame, and Features

From the A-pillar forward, the Raptor has a composite hood and fenders different from other F-150s and is bereft of the blue oval badge in the grille. SVT widened the track by 7 inches, and so its 5.5-foot box is unique to the Raptor as well.^[7] The Raptor's height is 2 inches over a standard Supercrew. It also features new, internal bypass shocks, designed by Fox Racing Shox.
The Raptor has new leaf springs and shocks, new front upper- and lower-A-arms, and a wider, thicker-walled rear axle. It's the first Ford with hill-descent control and comes with an electronic differential locker that lets the driver keep it locked at high speeds when the Raptor's Off Road Mode is engaged. Off Road Mode is a feature unique to the Raptor which allows more controlled, aggressive driving while in situations where increased traction and braking are necessary. The Raptor's Off Road Mode allows ABS, roll stability control and traction control to be completely turned off giving the driver total control over the driving experience. Off Road Mode also changes the Raptor's throttle sensitivity and transmission shift points causing a more linear power curve for low traction situations.
Towing capacity is up to 8,000 pounds with a 1,770-pound payload (Super Crew only).^[8] Interior changes include high-bolster seats, a special steering wheel, a redesigned center console and auxiliary switches connected to pre-wired pass though leads allowing ease of aftermarket product installation. Ford originally promised a value price and a multi-year run—final pricing came in at $42,000.00 for 2010.

2011 Frame Problems

In June 2011, a group of 14 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor owners took an off-roading trip. 10 of these 14 owners came back from this trip with bent frames. There was no other damage to the trucks, showing that it maybe has a design flaw. ^[9]A Ford engineer from SVT stated the trucks were driven too fast and may have even had the Speed limiter removed.

Toyota Prius V

The Toyota Prius v, also named Prius Alpha in Japan, and Prius + in Europe, is a full hybrid gasoline-electric compact MPV/station wagon produced by Toyota Motor Corporation introduced in Japan in May 2011, and scheduled to be released to the U.S. market by October 2011^[2] and in the European market by mid 2012.^[3] The Prius v was unveiled at the January 2011 North American International Auto Show alongside the Prius c Concept, and it is the first Prius variant to be spun off from the Prius platform.^[4][5] According to Toyota the "v" stands for "versatility."^[6][7] The Prius v is offered in the Japanese market with a nickel-metal hydride battery at a price of ¥2.35 million (US$29,000), and the lithium-ion battery version is expected to sell for ¥3 million (US$37,000).

Specifications

The Prius v styling looks like a European-style small minivan and has a 0.29 drag coefficient with a shape that evolved from the Prius. The exterior styling is rounded with an extended roofline that allows the vehicle to retain the triangular silhouette symbolic of Prius. Other differences are the trapezoidal-shaped front with sharp-edged headlamps and wind-slipping aero corners for improved aerodynamics, as well as an enlarged under grille. The rear styling has a specially designed roof spoiler that improves air flow.^[1]
The interior cargo space is more than 50% larger than the 2010 Toyota Prius, 5 inches (130 mm) longer and 1 inch (25 mm) wider, providing 34.3 cubic feet (970 L) of cargo space behind the rear seats; it also offers 38 inches (970 mm) of rear leg room, and more head height.^[4][8]

The Toyota Prius v includes many of the same standard features of the 2010 Prius, with four driving modes: Normal, Power, Eco and EV; smart key with push button start, an electronic shift lever, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), and a back-up camera. Available options include energy-efficient LED headlamps, dynamic radar cruise control with a Pre-Collision System (PCS), and advanced parking guidance system.^[1] The Prius v has several technical advancements including Toyota's new Toyota Entune Multimedia System and a panoramic sunroof made of lightweight-resin, 40% lighter than a glass roof of the same size.^[8][9] Entune will premiere on the 2012 Toyota Prius v.^[10]

Powertrain

The Prius v powertrain uses the same 1.8 liter Atkinson cycle gasoline inline-four engine used in the conventional Prius, a 60KWh traction motor, and shares the Prius’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system and the same 201Vnickel-metal hydride battery pack.^[4][8][11]
Toyota introduced some refinements unique to the Prius v powertrain. These refinements include a new "Pitch and Bounce" motor control that the Prius v automatically employs on undulating roads and the refined control was designed to improve ride comfort and control. Because the Prius v is a larger vehicle with greater load capacity, suspension components were redesigned to improve handling and ride quality. "Pitch and Bounce" control works with the vehicle’s suspension to cancel longitudinal oscillation when the Prius v is driven over uneven surfaces.^[11]
The Prius v also includes a redesigned engine coolant heating structure surrounding the vehicle’s catalytic converter and the exhaust heat recirculation system has been refined to reduce engine warm-up time and improve occupant heater response time in cold weather. A switch valve electronically controls coolant recirculation through the exhaust heat recirculation system.^[11]

Fuel economy and emissions

The Prius v estimated fuel economy is 44 miles per US gallon (5.3 L/100 km; 53 mpg_-imp) in the city and40 miles per US gallon (5.9 L/100 km; 48 mpg_-imp) in highway, and 42 miles per US gallon (5.6 L/100 km; 50 mpg_-imp) combined.^[11] According to Toyota, the Prius vwill produce 66 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle.^[1]

Markets and price

Toyota plans to launch the second member of the Prius family with three regional versions of the vehicle: the Prius v in the North American market, the Prius Alpha in Japan, and the Prius + in Europe. The Alpha is the basis for the five-seat planned for launch in North America, and the seven-seat planned for launch in Europe.^[3][11]

 Japan

On May 13, 2011, Toyota introduced the Prius Alpha in Japan with a sales target of 3,000 units per month.^[3][11]The Prius Alpha is available in a five-seat, two-row model and a seven-seat, three-row model, the latter’s third row enabled by a space-saving lithium-ion drive battery in the center console. The five-seat model uses a NiMH battery pack. Deliveries of the Alpha will be delayed due to the effects of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami on production. Toyota announced it had received 25,000 orders for the Prius Alpha hybrid wagon and minivan models in Japan before the start of sales.^[3][12] The five-seater version starts at ¥2.35 million (US$29,000), and the seven-seater starts at ¥3 million(US$37,000).^[3]

Europe

The European version is named Prius + and will be launched by mid 2012.^[3] The European version will be offered with a lithium-ion battery, with three rows of seats with accommodations for seven passengers.^[3][13]

North America

Toyota plans to offer the Prius v in the U.S. by October 2011^[2] with a nickel-metal hydride battery pack similar to the 2010 model year Prius, and with two rows of seats to accommodate five passengers. The European and Japanese versions will be offered with a lithium-ion battery, with three rows of seats with accommodations for seven passengers.^[13][3] Toyota's sales target is about 15 to 20% of conventional Prius sales in the United States, which represents around 30,000 units a year. With the Prius v Toyota is expecting to expand its customer base to include young families with children looking for a hybrid more spacious than the Prius.^[2]

Hyundai Genesis

The Hyundai Genesis (Korean: 현대 제네시스) is a full-size luxury car initially introduced as a concept car in the 2007 New York International Auto Show.^[1] Hyundai has introduced the vehicle worldwide, known internally as the BH model, and markets the Genesis as a "premium sports sedan".^[2] The Genesis is currently not offered in Europe. A coupe version based on the BH platform was introduced at the 2008 New York International Auto Show and arrived at US dealerships in February, 2009 as a 2010 model.
Hyundai Chairman and CEO Chung Mong-koo calls the Genesis Hyundai's first entry into the European dominated luxury arena.^[3] According to Hyundai Vice Chairman Kim Dong-jin, the name Genesis is an indication that the vehicle is the first of many premium cars the company will introduce.^[3] The Genesis sedan is a luxury sedan that was designed to compete with the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, Infiniti M, and Lexus GS.^[4] Hyundai targeted 55,000 sales of the Genesis in 2008 (35,000 in Korea and another 20,000 overseas) and 45,000 in 2009,^[3] with sales goals of 50,000 per year in the United States.^[5] Other competitors to the Genesis in its direct price range include the Chrysler 300, Ford Taurus, Pontiac G8, and Toyota Avalon.Introduced in March, 2007 as the "Concept Genesis", the sedan was designed by Hyundai as a "progressive interpretation of the modern rear-wheel drive sports sedan".^[7] Hyundai conceived the idea for the Genesis in 2003. The body design took three years and the total cost of the program was $500 million over a development period of 23 months. Reliability testing ran for 800,000 miles.^[8]

Hyundai reportedly benchmarked the BMW 5-Series (E60) sedan during the Genesis' development; their press release indicates the Genesis body in white exceeds the BMW in torsional rigidity by 14%.^[9] The production Genesis sedan received a five-star crash rating in every category from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.^[10][11] Hyundai markets the Genesis as offering "the performance of a BMW 5-Series and the interior packaging of a 7-Series at the price of a 3-Series."^[12]

Specifications and equipment

Hyundai manufactures three engines for the Genesis sedan and offers the car internationally with various combinations of the three:
The Tau V8 is Hyundai's first homegrown eight cylinder engine. For the 2008-09 model years, the 4.6 L engine produced 375 horsepower (280 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 333 lb·ft at 3,500 rpm.^[13] Introduced as a midyear change for the 2010 model, the 4.6 L V8 now produces 385 horsepower (287 kW) at 6,500 rpm, with no change in the torque output: 333 lb-ft at 3,500 rpm.^[14] These figures are achieved using premium fuel. The V8 can also run on regular unleaded, in which case the 2010-11 model produces 378 horsepower (282 kW) and 324 lb-ft. For the V8 model, Hyundai has reported 0-60 mph times of less than 6 seconds.^[9][15] Car and Driver reports a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds,^[16] while Motor Trend reports a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds in their October 2008 issue.
The Lambda 3.8 L V6 is available in Korean and North American models. In Korean spec, the engine produces 306 horsepower (228 kW). In US spec this engine produces 290 hp (216 kW) at 6,200 rpm and 264 lb·ft (358 N·m) at 4,500 rpm.^[13] Motor Trend reports a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds.^[17]
The Lambda 3.3 L V6 is available in some markets, producing 264 horsepower (197 kW).
In North America, the V8-powered Genesis features a standard ZF 6HP26 6-speed automatic transmission from ZF Friedrichshafen (identical to the unit found in the BMW 5-Series), with the base V6 models receiving the 6-speed automatic Aisin transmission also found in the Hyundai Veracruz. All three engines can run on regular gasoline, an exception to most high-performance, high-compression engines that require premium fuel.
Standard features on all models in the US include cruise control, automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, leather seat-upholstery and steering wheel, heated front seats with power adjustments, power windows, door locks, and mirrors, remote keyless entry and starting, and a seven-speaker audio system with XM satellite radio.^[18]

An optional Lexicon audio system offers 7.1 channels, 528 watts output, 17 speakers, two 3-way transducer systems, five 2-way transducer systems and digital signal processing that provides equalization among driver and passengers. The Rolls-Royce Phantom and the Genesis sedan are the only automobiles to offer the Lexicon audio system.^[19]
The Hyundai Genesis utilizes a speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering, and comes with four-wheel disc brakes. The suspension is a multi-link setup in front and a 5-link setup in the rear. Weight distribution is 53% front / 47% rear for the V8 and 52% front / 48% rear for the V6.^[13]
Standard safety features include dual front airbags, front and rear side airbags, side-curtain airbags, ABS, brake assist, EBD, traction control, and electronic stability control.^[20]

2010 model year updates

New for the 2010, the 3.8 model offers a Premium Navigation Package which provides a less expensive 7-inch touchscreen navigation as an alternative to the more costly Technology Package. The Premium Navigation Package replaces the previous Premium Plus Package which most notably upgraded to 18-inch alloy wheels, also a part of this new package.
For 2010, the 4.6 Genesis was made only in one available trim, with all packages made standard, including the Technology package. The MSRP increased to $43,000 (excluding $800 destination charge), and the car also received a slightly uprated engine as a midyear change, with the 4.6L V8 producing 385 horsepower (287 kW) at 6,500 rpm and an identical 333 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm.^[14]

Future models

According to the Edmunds.com Inside Line Blog, the 2012 Genesis Sedan will be available with a 5.0L version of the Tau V8, rumored to produce 429 horsepower (320 kW) and 376 lb-ft of torque, along with a new 8-speed automatic transmission.

South Korea

2009 Hyundai Genesis sedan (South Korea)

A full production version went on sale on January 8, 2008 in Hyundai's home market of South Korea. Notably, the Korean market Genesis does not carry a Hyundai badge, only the 'Genesis' emblem.^[2][26]
The Korean model is available with a 3.3L V6 producing 264 horsepower (197 kW), and a 3.8L V6 producing 289 horsepower (216 kW).
Hyundai has come under criticism from Korean consumers over the price discrepancy between the US and Korean markets. Yonhap reports the Genesis costs "58.3 million won (US$57,000) in Korea, whereas in the U.S. it sells for $32,000." This has led to a growing market in reimported Genesises by gray market dealers. Korean regulators are currently investigating whether Hyundai has abused its 75% domestic market share.^[27] However, Hyundai cars in South Korea have more available options and that may be the reason for the mark-ups.

North America

Marketed as the Hyundai Genesis in the US and Canada, the vehicle is the largest, most powerful car that Hyundai has ever marketed there before the launch of the Equus.^[2]
The Genesis V6 model has a starting price of US$33,800 in USA,^[1] while the V8 model starts at US$43,800, including destination charge.^[18] According to Hyundai Motor America's current Genesis website,^[28] the U.S. engines produce 290 HP for the 3.8L V6, and 385 hp (287 kW) for the Tau 4.6L V8. Power in the 4.6L V8 drops to 378 hp (282 kW) when regular unleaded fuel is used. The 264 horsepower (197 kW) 3.3L V6 variant will not be sold in the United States.

The 3.8 V6 model has standard ESC, fog lights, ABS brakes, an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission, Bluetooth hands-free phone capability, and a push-button starting system. It also offers a Premium Package, which adds a leather-wrapped dashboard and door trims, a power sunroof, a Lexicon 15-speaker audio system with a 6 single-feed CD changer, power tilt-and telescopic steering wheel, a power rear sunshade, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and an automatic defogging windshield. The Premium with Navigation Package requires the Premium Package and adds a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system with backup camera and special 18-inch wheels. The Technology Package offers an upgraded 7.1-channel Lexicon audio system with 17-speakers, ventilated driver's seat, the premium 8" non-touchscreen navigation system, and XM NavTraffic system. This premium navigation system is controlled by a multimedia knob controller by the shift gear rather than by touchscreen.^[29]
The 4.6 V8 model offers all the standard features of the Genesis 3.8 model, but adds a woodgrain trimmed steering wheel, 18" wheels, 8" navigation system with backup camera, radar assisted cruise control, and the remaining contents of the V6 Technology Package.
The Genesis sedan went on sale in the US in August 2008. In its first 5 months of sales, the Genesis under-performed in the competitive US market selling only 6,167 units. According to Hyundai, Genesis saw sales of just 1,297 units in its first full sales month and the company expected to move around 8000 units from the US showrooms by the end of 2008.^[30] In 2009, the Genesis sold 21,889 units in the U.S. (sedan and coupe combined).^[31]
There had been internal discussions within Hyundai about creating a separate brand to feature the Genesis sedan as well as the soon to come Equus sedan in North America, but due to prohibitive costs and potential delays the Genesis and Equus will still remain tagged with the Hyundai brand.

Awards

The Genesis sedan was named as Consumer Reports 'Top-Rated Upscale Sedan',^[43] highest ranked midsize premium car by JD Power APEAL study (beating out the BMW 5 Series, Jaguar XF),^[44] Tops JD Power's Vehicle Launch Index (VLI),^[45] Automotive, Performance, Execution awards by J.D. Power,^[46] Car of the Year by Autotropolis.com,^[46] named AutoPacific ideal vehicle award winner,^[47] recognized as a best new model for 2009 by Kiplinger's Personal Finance,^[48] Top Safety Award by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)),^[23] Cars.com New Car of the Year,^[49] Luxury and Value on the Best New Car List by About.com,^[50] Car of the Year at the 2009 Urban Wheel Awards by Wheels Media,^[51] named a “Top 5 Luxury Car for 2009” & "Car of the Month (April)" & "Best Car Buy" by the U.S. National Automobile Dealers Association (NADAguides.com),^[46][52] "Best Bet" awards from The Car Book,^[53] MyRide/Autobytel editors' Choice award,^[54] named a consumer guide recommended buy,^[55] consumers digest (luxury segment) best buy,^[56] America's Top 40 New Cars by Motor Trend,^[46] The Genesis was assessed as having the highest residual value by the Automotive Lease Guide while the National Automobile Dealers Association named the Genesis one of the top five luxury sedans.^[57][58] According to editor-in-chief blog of Motor Trend magazine, "Hyundai Genesis: A Car Detroit Can Now Only Dream of Building?", The Genesis came close to winning the 2009 Motor Trend Car of the Year title.^[59] USA Today praised that Hyundai proves it's a master of luxury.^[60] Hyundai Genesis sedan awarded as the segment leader for the near-luxury car class of vehicles by Strategic Vision.^[61] The Genesis Sedan was named “Best Deal for the Boss” in the Cars.com annual Best Lifestyle Vehicle Awards.^[62] In a survey of over consumers, Hyundai owners placed the Genesis luxury sedan at the top of their classes in AutoPacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Awards (VSA) research.^[63]
The Genesis has received a number of well-recognized automobile awards worldwide. Most notably, the Genesis has been named 2009 North American Car of the Year, the first for Hyundai.^[64] It also won the 2009 Canadian Car of the Year after winning its category of Best New Luxury Car under $50,000.^[46][65][66] It also won the 2009 Car of the Year award by China's Autoworld magazine.^[67] The Hyundai's V8 Tau engine in the Genesis, which develops 375 hp (280 kW) on premium fuel and 368 hp (274 kW) on regular fuel, received 2009 Ward's 10 Best Engines award.^[68]



Based on automotive journalist reviews, The Genesis received a score of 89% on Seven Car Garage, making it one of the best reviewed cars in its class.