Hyundai i20 Blue

Based on the all-new i20 B-segment car, the i20 blue, a ‘blue’ variant incorporating a number of modifications, enhances the standard car’s already-impressive environmental credentials.

The ‘blue’ package involves revisions to the i20’s powertrain efficiency, aerodynamics and chassis, to deliver a significant reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, without compromising performance, reliability and driver satisfaction.

While the regular i20 achieves notably low fuel consumption and CO2 figures, the i20 blue offers a reduction of 15 percent in CO2 emissions to just 99g/km and an improvement of 15 percent in fuel efficiency, consuming just 3,75 litres/100km.

The i20 blue runs the extremely efficient 1.4 CRDi diesel engine, which produces 90PS and generates 220 Nm of torque. The powertrain is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox – instead of the car’s usual five-speed unit – in which the ratios have been modified in 3rd, 4th and 5th gear. Performance is very respectable in the i20 blue, with a top speed of 176km/h and a 0-100km/h time of around 13 seconds.

The engine’s electronic software, which manages timing, injection pressure and idle speed, has been optimized to deliver low emissions and high efficiency. Engine performance is enhanced by minimizing driveline friction and utilizing high-performance, low-friction engine oil.

The most noticeable change from the driver’s perspective is the application of a Hyundai-specific ISG Start-Stop system. A Bosch product, customized for the i20 blue, this innovation cuts the engine when the car is stationary and the gearbox is disengaged, and restarts the engine when the clutch pedal is depressed. This activity is particularly effective at minimizing emissions in slow-moving, urban traffic.

Advances in aerodynamic drag reduction contribute to the vehicle’s remarkably low emissions and fuel consumption statistics. Ground clearance has been reduced by 15 millimeters, while full-length underfloor covers further enhance aerodynamic efficiency.

The application of Michelin Energy low rolling resistance tires and the subtle changes made to the design of the grille and bodywork also help improve performance.

Hyundai i20 i-Blue Concept To Make It To

Hyundai i20 i-Blue

Hyundai debuted the concept i20 i-Blue concept at the Paris Motor Show in September 2008, along with the i20 for the world. The reports now say that i20 i-Blue concept car will make it to production.

The i20 i-Blue is the latest in Hyundai’s i-Blue range of advance low emission cars. The i20 i-Blue concept looks like a normal i20 but incorporates a number of modifications and enhancements, hidden under the skin, over the standard i20.

The i-blue modifications inlcude revised powetrain, chassis and aerodynamics to deliver significant reductions in fuel consumptions and harmful gas emissions without compromising performance, reliablility and driver satisfaction.

Jump over to read the complete article.

Key modifications include full length under floor covers to smoothen the air flow, reduced ground clearance by 15mm, aerodynamic changes to the front and rear end, low rolling resistence tyres by michelin and high performance low friction engine oil.

The i20 i-Blue concept is powered by a 1.4 litre common rail turbodiesel engine with 90 bhp and more importantly 220 nm of torque. The car comes with a 6 speed manual gearbox instead of the regular 5 speed manual to further optimize the gear ratios given the high torque rating.

The result of all this is a staggeringly low fuel consumption figure of just 3.75 Litres of diesel per 100 kms and CO2 output of just 99 grams/km! Even the performance numbers are respectable with 0-100 kph spring covered in a brisk 13 seconds with a top speed of 176 kmph. Performance and fuel efficiency dont have to be mutually exclusive all the time.

Further, the i20 i-Blue concept also comes with ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system developed by Bosch which switches the engine off when the car is stationary in traffic and restarts the engine instantly the moment driver wishes to move again.

The ISG system alone claims to improve fuel consumption and reduce emissions by upto 15% in heavy traffic with constant stop and go conditions.

The i20 i-Blue has been confirmed to make its way into production. Although no dates have been specified, sources suggest that the first car should be available by end of summer this year.

Hyundai i20 now with diesel and automatic options

Hyundai’s international premium hatchback hit the Indian market in November last year and created quite a stir with its launch. The car is back with a bang – with a view to enhance and increase its appeal base, it has been given a diesel option. While we were expecting this move for a while, Hyundai has also thrown in a surprise package to the upgrade with a 1.4-litre petrol automatic option.

The 1.4-litre CRDi powerplant is ready to take the fight to other premium diesel hatchbacks like the Skoda Fabia TDi. This is not some engine transplant operation – while many were assuming that Hyundai will fit the i20 with the same 1.5-litre CRDi engine that is currently doing the duty on the Getz, the company has gone one step further and developed an all-new diesel engine specifically for the i20. Given the family appeal of the spacious hatchback, the diesel option will certainly enhance its desirability for large urban families.

While many (including us) wished that the great handling dynamics and refinement of the 1.2-litre Kappa engined petrol i20 were complimented by more power, Hyundai has granted this wish as well. The company has also introduced a spunkier 1.4-litre petrol engine option for the i20. Unfortunately for enthusiasts, this variant will be available only with an automatic gearbox. The automatic gearbox will add appeal to the i20 as far as its urban users are concerned.

Hyundai has priced the cars in a fairly competitive manner if we’d compare it with the i20 petrol’s introductory pricing. The base 1.4 CRDi will be available for Rs 6.2 lakh, while the fully loaded Asta CRDi variant has been priced at Rs 6.83 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi. The sun-roofed Asta option has been priced at Rs 7.2 lakh.

The 1.4 petrol automatic will be giving the recently launched Honda Jazz a little restlessness by offering a larger engine with an automatic gearbox in about the same price range. Available only in the fully-loaded Asta trim, the 1.4 auto has been priced at Rs 7.3 lakh, while the Asta option will be available for Rs 7.72 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi.

2010 Hyundai Accent Details

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How did Hyundai improve Accent’s EPA fuel economy for 2010 without adding thousands of dollars to the price like a hybrid does? The answer is the introduction of the high mileage “Blue” edition and smart engineering to all Accent models. Accent’s fuel efficiency is improved by up to nine percent, reaching as high as 36 miles per gallon on the highway which is better than Honda Fit and Nissan Versa.
ACCENT BLUE AND FUEL ECONOMY ADVANCEMENTS

All 2010 Accents receive lower friction engine components, aerodynamic improvements, lower-rolling-resistance silica tires, a “smart” alternator management system and other enhancements all aimed at reducing fuel consumption. The Accent Blue receives the same treatment plus revised transmission gear ratios and lowered ride height to achieve even greater fuel efficiency. In fact, the Blue edition is the lowest priced Accent, starting around $10,000. It also has the highest highway fuel economy with 36 miles per gallon and the highest combined fuel economy 31 miles per gallon, achieving one of the highest MPG-per-dollar ratios in the industry. This new high mileage Accent will be identified with unique “Blue” badging.

To help Accent drivers get the most out of their cars, for 2010, Hyundai has added an economy indicator. The “eco indicator” on automatic transmission models is a green ECO light to indicate when the driver is achieving good fuel economy. Manual transmission models have a EcoShift indicator to inform drivers of the optimal time to shift.

NEW EQUIPMENT

NEW EQUIPMENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2010

High mileage, low price “Blue” edition
“Blue” edition available with air conditioning
New and improved EPA fuel economy for all other models
Standard iPod®/USB ports added to auxiliary input on all audio- equipped models
Standard steering wheel audio controls on Accent SE, optional on Accent GLS
Standard blue backlit gauges on all models
ABS is now available on Accent GS
Standard cruise control and sunroof on Accent SE

Steering wheel audio controls, blue back-lit gauges and an iPod/USB jack also make debuts on Accent. Now when an iPod is connected to the iPod/USB port, located in the front storage area, not only does it play music through the vehicle’s six-speaker audio system, but also charges the iPod. The iPod/USB input also allows the driver to access tracks with the new steering wheel audio controls. This new system also enables both driver and passengers to easily view song/artist/title information and control the music from the audio head unit rather than from the iPod itself.

INTERIOR SPACE AND UNEXPECTED FEATURES

Interior space and unexpected features keep Accent a class above the competition. The Accent has more total interior volume than either the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic – both cars that are a vehicle class above Accent and priced thousands of dollars more. Unexpected features include a B&M Racing® sport shifter and XM Satellite Radio® with three months of free service. The Accent SE’s standard B&M shifter adds shorter throw-lengths and more precision performance-tuned driving dynamics and Accent is still the only car in its class to offer XM Satellite Radio with three months of free service as standard equipment with the vehicle’s audio system.

Offered in a four-door sedan (the Accent GLS) and three-door models (the Accent Blue, GS and SE), Accent continues to offer a high level of standard safety, power and economy in its class.

ADVANCED SAFETY FEATURES

In a bold stroke in this price-sensitive market segment, Hyundai has outfitted the Accent with state-of-the-art standard safety technologies highlighted by six airbags, including dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags covering both rows of seating. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 45 percent according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). All Accents come equipped with front seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters, which are designed to tighten the seatbelt in the event of a collision. This safety package helped the Accent GLS four-door receive a five-star frontal crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is optional on the GS and GLS and standard on the SE.

REFINED AND CONFIDENT DESIGN

Hyundai designers gave the Accent GLS a distinctive look within its market segment. Upscale details like a chrome-accented grille combine with bold tail lights and strong character lines to deliver a standout presence. The roof-mounted flexible micro-antenna not only looks good, but also provides improved radio and satellite reception.

Externally, the three-door Accents reflect Hyundai’s sleek, confident design direction. Up front, the Blue, GS and SE feature an aggressive bodycolor grille with fog lights standard on the SE. Accent SE’s high-performance P205/45R16 tires and lightweight five-spoke 16-inch aluminum wheels provide a big dose of street credibility. A long wheelbase and higher seating position increase the spacious feeling of the interior. A rear spoiler and rear defroster are standard on all Accent three-door models with the GS and SE adding a standard rear wiper.

LARGE INTERIOR

The Accent’s smart design pays comfort dividends inside, with more total interior volume than either the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic – both cars that are a vehicle class above Accent. The Accent four-door sedan has a total interior volume of 104.6 cubic feet, offering an unexpectedly spacious feel which bests the larger Civic sedan by 1.7 cubic feet. In addition, Accent four-door has more passenger volume than Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Chevrolet Aveo. Accent three-door also delivers class-leading interior volume in the three-door segment. Its total interior volume of 108.1 cubic feet makes it roomer than the Civic Coupe by 12.9 cubic feet. Front passengers enjoy class-leading legroom and rear passengers enjoy a class-leading 53.1 inches of shoulder room. Accent three-door’s cargo space is 15.9 cubic feet, a total of 6.6 cubic feet larger than the Yaris three-door.

Accent’s interior finish, attention to detail and color options have reset expectations in its market segment. There’s a handsome two-tone interior color scheme with either a gray or beige theme, or a sporty, black monotone interior that is available on Accent three-door. Analog instrumentation keeps the driver informed, while power steering, a tilt steering wheel and a six-way adjustable driver’s seat with fold-down armrest ensure long-haul comfort. Convenient storage areas are placed throughout the interior, including bins in the front and rear center console and glove compartment. GLS and SE add a passenger side seatback pocket and bottle holders in each door. Door storage pockets are standard on all trims, as are two more cupholders in front and another pair in the fold-down rear center armrest of the GLS. All Accents have a 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback making it easy to load large objects, or to mix cargo and passengers for maximum flexibility.

Hyundai has traditionally delivered high feature content for the money, and the Accent is no exception. Standard features are comprehensive, including two-speed variable intermittent wipers, adjustable head restraints for all seating positions, cabin air filtration, rear window defroster, tachometer, rear coat hook, digital clock, two 12-volt outlets and a remote hood release.

For audiophiles, the available 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system includes auxiliary iPod/USB inputs, large-format display with easy-to-use controls and a total of six speakers positioned throughout the interior. While XM Satellite Radio is either optional or not available on most competitors, it comes standard with all Accent audio systems.

CLEAN, FUEL EFFICIENT ENGINE

The Accent is powered by a 1.6-liter DOHC in-line four cylinder engine that features four valves per cylinder with CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing). The DOHC and CVVT combination gives the engine a very broad powerband, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions.

With better breathing from the CVVT system, performance peaks at 110 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and torque is 106 lb.-ft. at 4,500 rpm. At 110 horsepower, Accent makes more horsepower than Yaris and Aveo. Fuel economy is equally impressive, achieving 36 mpg regardless of transmission choice. With a manual transmission, the Accent Blue’s EPA mileage is 27 mpg City and 36 mpg Highway. With the optional four-speed automatic transmission, the Accent’s 2010 EPA rating is 27 mpg City and 36 mpg Highway besting Versa and Fit on the highway.

Besides the added performance it provides, CVVT also helps the engine operate more cleanly, and the Accent is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). Part of the Alpha engine family, the Accent’s powerplant is a durable and technologically advanced unit that features a rigid cast-iron block and lightweight aluminum cylinder head. Engineered for the long haul, the Alpha is backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.

TWO TRANSMISSION CHOICES

For engaging performance, the Accent comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission geared for quicker acceleration and a sporty personality. For added performance, the B&M Racing shifter provides shorter throw-lengths and more precision to Accent SE’s fun-to-drive nature. Also available is an optional four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and lock-up torque converter to maximize fuel economy at highway speeds.

REMARKABLE DRIVING DYNAMICS

Accent’s stiff body structure allows the affordable Accent to deliver a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Accent features a MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension both with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. A 21.0 mm diameter front stabilizer bar helps reduce body roll when cornering. Rack-and-pinion steering with engine-RPM sensing assist makes for low-effort maneuvering around town and a secure feel at high speed. At 33.1 feet Accent’s turning diameter is better than Fit’s 34.4 feet and Versa’s 34.2 feet.

Accent has been developed to satisfy unique consumer needs. The GLS four-door is tuned for comfort, but still feels agile. The Blue and GS three-door models have a unique steering rack with a sportier feel. The top-of-the-line SE trim sets the standard in the entry-level fun-to-drive category, delivering even more road-holding capability. Accent SE’s sport-tuned suspension features a 24 percent stiffer front spring rate, an 11 percent stiffer rear spring rate, a larger stabilizer bar (24 mm) and unique strut valving. This model’s 205/45R16 tires are tuned specifically for precision and improved lateral acceleration. Accent SE delivers a 70 percent increase in roll control over the GLS. To complete the performance package, Accent SE has standard four-sensor, four-channel Antilock Braking System (ABS). Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is integrated into the ABS, automatically adjusting braking force front to rear based on vehicle load.

QUALITY AND VALUE

The Accent’s many strengths make it not only a smart choice for buyers, but also a clear value leader in its segment. Advanced standard safety technologies give it an important edge. Accent has more passenger interior volume than the Chevrolet Aveo, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit and Honda Civic, and upscale interior appointments make it remarkably comfortable and accommodating. New features for 2010 – like steering wheel audio controls and iPod/USB inputs – demonstrate Hyundai’s commitment to continually meeting higher customer expectations and being a class-above the competition. Add in the advantage of America’s Best Warranty™, including five years and 60,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and choosing Accent becomes an even simpler decision for the savvy buyer.

ACCENT “BLUE”THREE-DOOR -- THE PERFECT ENTRY-LEVEL CAR

This year, Hyundai introduces a high mileage “Blue” edition of its Accent. When shoppers see the “Blue” badge it means this model delivers outstanding fuel economy without adding thousands of dollars to the price. In fact, the “Blue” model will be priced lower than any other Accent model, assuring it will be both efficient and economical. Hyundai is focused on achieving an excellent mpg-per-dollar ratio with its “Blue” models. Fuel-efficient modifications include low friction engine components, lower-rolling-resistance silica tires, an optimized thermostat, a “smart” alternator management system, improvements to the underbody airflow management, revised transmission gear ratios and lowered ride height.

Key standard equipment includes a five-speed manual transmission with EcoShift indicator, sport-tuned power assisted rack-and-pinion steering, dual front, side and head curtain airbags, variable intermittent windshield wipers, six-way adjustable driver seat with armrest, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, rear spoiler and rear window defroster. Accent builds on Hyundai’s reputation for offering loads of standard equipment by also adding adjustable head restraints for all seating positions, cabin air filtration, tachometer, digital clock, two 12-volt outlets and remote hood release.

ACCENT GS

In keeping with Hyundai’s high-value approach to standard equipment, the Accent GS offers standard automatic transmission, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, maplights, rear wiper, and bodycolor mirrors and door handles. Convenient storage areas are placed throughout the interior, including the front center console, driver storage tray and a rear storage tray. Two cupholders are ideally situated between the driver and passenger for easy reach. A 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback makes it easy to load large objects, or to mix cargo and passengers for maximum effectiveness. The roof-mounted micro antenna is aerodynamic, flexible and improves signal strength.

The GS Premium Package includes a 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with 6 speakers and iPod/USB inputs, power windows with driver’s window auto-down feature, power mirrors and door locks and remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert. And for the first time, ABS is available on the GS as part of the Premium Package.

ACCENT SE - ENTRY-LEVEL PERFORMANCE

The sport-oriented Accent SE takes value in an exciting new, fun-to-drive direction with the addition of the B&M Racing sport shifter. To complete the driving experience, the Accent SE features a sport-tuned suspension with unique springs, strut valving, stabilizer bar and steering gear – delivering in total a 70 percent increase in roll stiffness over the GS. Accent SE also features air conditioning, power sunroof, cruise control, a 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers and auxiliary iPod/USB inputs, steering wheel audio controls, power windows with driver’s window auto-down feature, illuminated vanity mirrors, power door locks, remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert and power-adjustable exterior mirrors. On the outside, the 16-inch alloy wheels and P205/45R16 tires deliver enhanced road-holding capability, and fog lights keep the driver’s path illuminated in adverse weather. The SE trim is equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and metallic interior accents. Additional storage is available with a seatback pocket and front door bottle holders.

ACCENT GLS

To simplify the buying process, the four-door Accent sedan comes in a single GLS trim level with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. GLS trim offers a wide range of features, including several items that are either optional or unavailable on competitive vehicles such as a powerful 110-horsepower 1.6-liter CVVT engine, power steering, rear coat hook, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, AM/FM/XM /CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary iPod/USB inputs, driver and passenger illuminated vanity mirrors and standard air conditioning. There are a total of six airbags, including dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof mounted side-curtain airbags. Carpeted floor mats are optional. The GLS Premium Package includes ABS with EBD, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power windows, mirrors, door locks, steering wheel audio controls and remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert.

WARRANTY

The 2010 Hyundai Accent is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection,

10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Accent buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.

2010 Accent Manufacturers Suggested Retail Pricing

Model Engine Transmission MSRP
Blue 3-Door 1.6L Five-Speed M/T $9,970
GS 3-Door 1.6L Four-Speed A/T $12,995
GLS 4-Door 1.6L Five-Speed M/T $13,645
GLS 4-Door 1.6L Four-Speed A/T $14,645
SE 3-Door 1.6L Five-Speed M/T $16,195
SE 3-Door 1.6L Four-Speed A/T $16,995

Inproved Fuel Economy for 2010 Hyundai Accent

Mirroring changes already announced for the Hyundai Elantra lineup, the 2010 Hyundai Accent becomes more fuel-efficient across the board and adds a thrifty “Blue” trim level. Lower-friction engine internals, revised aerodynamics, low-rolling-resistance tires, and a “smart” alternator help all Accent models net an extra mpg in city and highway mileage tests. Automatic-equipped Accents are now rated at 27 mpg city/36 highway, while models with five-speed manuals climb to 28 mpg city/34 highway.

An entry-level Accent Blue model offers the lineup’s highest fuel economy, thanks to modified transmission gearing and a lowered ride height to improve aerodynamics. Available only in three-door guise with a manual transmission, the Blue starts at $10,690 and is rated at 31 mpg combined, up 1 mpg over all other Accent models. Standard equipment includes side and curtain airbags, a rear defroster, a tachometer, “sport-tuned” front suspension, and two 12-volt power outlets. Air conditioning is optional.

For 2010 Hyndai Accent, blue backlit gauges become standard on all Accent models, as do iPod and auxiliary audio inputs. Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and cruise control will henceforth be standard with the Accent SE trim.

Hyundai's Coupe a real coupe Genesis Coupe is one of the 2010 model year’s

Hyundai’s all-new Genesis Coupe is one of the 2010 model year’s more intriguing propositions. Sport coupes rarely are mainstream sellers, so the Coupe won’t have a big impact on the sales charts, but Hyundai has come up with an interesting car that is cleverly positioned.

The Coupe is unique because of its low price point and the fact its rear wheels do the driving. Affordable sport coupes almost always are derived from the basic structure of inexpensive economy cars — and inexpensive economy cars typically are front-wheel drive.

You usually don’t get rear-wheel drive until you start talking about the more serious money it takes to get a coupe based on more-expensive underpinnings. That’s why most rear-drive coupes these days are from the premium brands such as BMW, Lexus or Mercedes.

The 2010 Genesis Coupe can hit the market with a tempting entry price of just $22,750 because it makes use of the same platform as Hyundai’s Genesis sedan.

The new Genesis Coupe’s lithe responses — the communicative steering is an unqualified treat — exceed what even sport-coupe buyers might legitimately expect from a rear-drive chassis. And because it’s based on a structure designed for a luxury car, there’s an atypically generous 111-inch wheelbase that assures the car doesn’t buck fore-and-aft like a carnival ride.

We can report the Genesis Coupe generally handles superbly, so it can be considered a legitimate and less-expensive alternative to pricier coupes such as the Nissan 370Z, Infiniti G37 or Lexus IS 250. Even the more-expensive Genesis Coupe powered by Hyundai’s 306-horsepower 3.8-liter V-6 starts at still rock-bottom $25,750.

But the best money’s probably spent at the bottom of the Genesis Coupe’s lineup, where the models powered by the athletic 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder maximize the Coupe’s combination of rear-drive and relatively light weight.

We’d recommend the 2.0T Premium trim as the best all-around model, but another $2,500 nets the Track trim, which gets you a bunch of fine mechanical upgrades, such as brakes from the Italian specialist Brembo.

Hyundai plans stretched version of Equus

Hyundai Motor Co. is taking aim at Mercedes-Benz and BMW with a $113,000-plus stretched version of the Equus, its luxury flagship.

Hyundai Motor America would not comment on possible U.S. sales of what the automaker calls the Equus Limousine.

The Equus sedan's wheelbase is stretched 11.8 inches to create the Limousine. The car is now on sale in South Korea. Prices range from 135 million to 146 million won in South Korea, or about $113,700 to $123,100 at current exchange rates. Orders are being taken, but a production date for the Limousine was not announced. V-8 and V-6 models are planned.

The automaker said three bulletproof models have been created for the Korean presidential residence.

Hyundai said the Limousine, at about 215 inches, is longer than stretched-wheelbase versions of the Mercedes S-class and BMW 7-series sedans.

U.S. sales of the nonstretched version of the Equus sedan begin late next year, with an expected sticker price under $60,000. Equus amenities include a lane departure warning system, adaptive cruise control, heated steering wheel, a rear seat that massages the passenger's back and a built-in cooler.

The Equus shares a rear-drive platform with the Hyundai Genesis sedan. The Equus' wheelbase is 4.3 inches longer than that of the Genesis.

Hyundai Genesis offers surprising luxury at a value price

The Genesis is a totally new, rear-wheel-drive luxury sport sedan. With a standard 290-horse V6, and available V8 power, the Genesis is a bona fide competitor to the Lexus GS, BMW 5 Series, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but at $36,000 as tested, value priced along the lines of the Chrysler 300.

Hyundai was best known for building econoboxes, and as the new vehicle of last resort upon it’s entrance to the American marketplace. However, the Korean automaker has moved systematically upmarket for several years, and the Genesis is the culmination of that journey, being the company’s most luxurious — and expensive — vehicle.

Walkaround: The Genesis is built on Hyundai’s all-new rear-wheel-drive platform, and sized similar to the Nissan Maxima, Dodge Charger and BMW 5-Series. It looks like a styling collaboration between Mercedes and BMW, with a politely aggressive, yet somewhat sedate, appearance.

The trapezoid-shaped grille and front-end design are obviously Mercedes-inspired — sans the rounded headlights. Hyundai opted for more modern, eye-slit, standard halogen headlamps. The available Technology Package includes auto-leveling high-intensity discharge adaptive headlights that point into turns for improved night vision.

Fog lights are standard on the lower fascia, which features a large air intake. Styling lines originate at the grille, flow easily into the hood, and terminate at the front A-pillars. The rest of the Genesis features an angular, BMW-inspired silhouette, right down to the dogleg shape of the rear pillars, instead of the softer, rounder Mercedes look.

The upper beltline flows from the front wheel openings to the taillights with a kickout at the bottom of the doors. Standard 17-inch wheels, or available 18-inchers, fill the wheelwells.

The Genesis has the same high trunk line pioneered by BMW and now standard for several manufacturers. The discreet, chrome Hyundai badge on the decklid is the vehicle’s only ornamentation.

Interior: The Genesis is luxuriously appointed, with tight tolerances, a leather-wrapped dash, soft-touch materials, leather seating surfaces, with heated seats, and finished in wood and aluminum trim highlighted with chrome accents. Front and rear seating room is exceptional.

Instrumentation is easy-to-read and electroluminescent, with white numbers on a black background and blue accents. Power windows, mirrors, door locks with remote, and steering-mounted audio controls are all standard. The available navigation system includes voice activation with a multimedia interface much easier to use than those from most luxury manufacturers — and especially BMW. An iPod interface is standard, as is an AM/FM/6-CD audio system that includes XM satellite radio, USB and auxiliary input jacks, along with Bluetooth hands-free phone capability. There’s also an optional 17-speaker, kickass Lexicon audio system with 7.1 surround sound that will blow you away, and an available 40 GB hard drive that holds music files and navigation map information. Music can be loaded from CDs or through the USB interface.

Safety features include dual front airbags, front and rear side airbags, curtain side airbags, tire-pressure monitor, electronic active front head restraints, antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution, traction control, and electronic stability control.

Front and rear park assist and a rearview camera come with the optional Technology Package.

Under The Hood: The Genesis marks the debut of Hyundai’s first V8, a 4.6-liter dual overhead cam engine putting 375 ponies to the pavement. It has an abundance of smooth, willing power and boasts decent fuel economy. Our test model was equipped with the standard 290-horse 3.8-liter V6, that delivered all the go you need, with the added benefit of an extra mpg’s — it’s rated at 18/city and 27/highway. Each engine is mated to a different, smooth-shifting, six-speed automatic transmission. Both feature Hyundai’s Shiftronic manual shift gate.

Behind The Wheel: The Genesis is touted as a sport sedan, and true to form, delivers smooth handling and easy power on twisty, winding roads. Overall, it has a pretty nimble feel, sliding easily through turns. But while the V6’s hydraulic steering has a positive feel, it can bind slightly in quick changes of direction.

The Genesis ride is comfortable and quiet, ironing out bumps with little impact on passengers — and it doesn’t wallow or float like some other Hyundai’s. The ride can get somewhat bouncy over rough pavement at highway speeds, and it’s not quite as agile as top performers such as the Infiniti M, but overall, the Genesis is a highly legitimate sport sedan.

Whines: Paddle shifters are a glaring omission. The Navigation screen is the central control point for navigation, trip computer, audio, Bluetooth phone, climate control, and settings in the Driver Information System. It uses a large rotating knob and six buttons. Three would be better. The iPod interface works well, but returning to a previous menu always starts it over alphabetically instead of the last spot visited. Nonetheless, other manufacturers — especially BMW and Audi — should take a lesson from the simplicity of Hyundai’s multimedia interface.

Bottom Line: The Hyundai Genesis is a luxury sedan offering lots of features for the dollar, and is a surprisingly capable, legitimate sports sedan. While not quite up to the high standards of the high-dollar European and Japanese luxury cars the Genesis aspires to be, it is a seriously viable alternative — and better appointed than most American luxury sedans — except perhaps the Cadillac CTS. If you’re in the luxury sports sedan market, you’d be remiss not to drive the Genesis before making a final decision.

Hyundai drops out of Tokyo Motor Show

Korean automaker Hyundai motor Co. has canceled its plans to participate in the Tokyo Motor Show, according to Automotive News. Slated for late October, the show also has seen Detroit’s automakers drop out, as well as British sports-car maker Lotus.