Hyundai has come a long way since it began selling cars in the United States back in 1986. When it first arrived, the Korean automaker sold only one vehicle – the Excel. Now, it offers 13 vehicles ranging from compact cars to hybrids to premium sedans. As a way to measure just how far it’s come, we welcomed a 2015 Hyundai Genesis 3.8 into Kelley Blue Book’s long-term fleet. So far, we’ve put just over 1,000 miles on the Genesis‘ odometer in the first month of a year-long test and it’s settling in quite nicely.
Also: The Class of 2016 — New Vehicles Ready to Roll
Bang for your buck
Our 2015 Genesis has an MSRP of $38,000 and that includes standard features like 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in P245/45R18 all-season tires, auto headlights with daytime running lights and LED accents, and power folding side view mirrors that project the Genesis logo from the puddle lamps. Other standard features include leather seats, proximity key entry, push-button start, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Optional features on our 2015 Hyundai Genesis include the Signature Package (HID headlights and auto-dimming side view mirrors, Blind Spot Detection, and a power rear sunshade -all for an additional $3,400), Tech Package (7-inch TFT LCD cluster display, lane departure warning, smart cruise control, haptic steering wheel, and auto emergency braking – $3,500), and the Ultimate Package (matte finish wood trim, heads-up display, power trunk lid, and a 9.2-inch high definition display unit -$3,500). All of these extra option packages and a destination charge of $950 raise the final asking price to $49,950. This would be a considered a fully-loaded version and stacks up favorably price-wise when compared to the competition. Then you take into consideration Hyundai’s 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty and suddenly the Genesis looks even more appealing.
Proficient powertrain
There are two different engine options available for the 2015 Hyundai Genesis in the form of a 5.0-liter V8 and a 3.8-liter V6. We decided to go with the latter since it’ll likely appear in the majority of vehicles sold. This engine is rated at 311 horsepower and 293 lb-ft of torque and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The EPA has rated this configuration at 18 city/29 highway/22 mpg combined and with just over 1,000 miles on the clock, the onboard computer is registering 22.9 mpg, This, of course, is in mixed driving conditions that feature both city and highway driving on a daily basis.
Also: Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards of 2015
We’re only a few weeks into life with the 2015 Hyundai Genesis but early indications point to all things being good. As part of KBB’s long-term program, the Genesis will be run through the gamut of daily life with a road trip and some other various tasks thrown in for good measure. Check back next month to see how the Genesis is adapting to everyday life with us.
More 2015 Hyundai Genesis…
See full review and pricing information for the 2015 Hyundai Genesis or build and price your own to unlock its Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own, and more.
