2013 Hyundai Genesis Sedan lineup simplified, adds Blue Link telematics
In a year of focused give and take, the otherwise carryover 2013 Hyundai Genesis Sedan loses an engine choice as well as two model configurations but gains a trick new navigation package that enhances in-car connectivity. While the 333-horsepower/3.8-liter direct-injected V6 carries on unchanged, the entry-grade 385-horse/4.6-liter V8 departs along with the Genesis 4.6 and the Genesis 5.0. However, the mighty 429-horspower/5.0-liter direct-injected Tau V8 lives on but only in the primo Genesis 5.0 R-Spec variant.
On the plus side of the ledger, the 2013 Genesis 3.8 with Technology Package and the 5.0 R-Spec will offer a new Ultimate Navigation Package. Standard on the latter and optional on the former, it brings a host of meaningful design and functional upgrades compared to the baseline navi setup, including a new Driver Information System with an 8.0-inch full-color screen, a more user-friendly multi-media controller and Hyundai's Blue Link telematics.
In addition to better voice-recognition capabilities and more intuitive control logic, Ultimate Navigation offers improved mapping displays that feature an assortment of visual cues that make it easier to stay on route. It also incorporates new "hot keys" that provide greater direct control over various functions to help reduce driver distraction and a huge 64Gb solid-state hard drive that accommodates loads of music, image and video storage as well as Bluetooth music-streaming.
Making its first appearance in the Genesis line, Blue Link telematics will be available in three stackable packages. Assurance focuses on various safety elements including Automatic Collision and Assistance Notifications, SOS emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance and a monthly vehicle report while Essentials adds a variety of convenience/vehicle diagnostic/security functions and Guidance further enhances the experience by adding things like turn-by-turn navigation, upgraded SiriusXM Satellite Radio with real-time sports/stocks/weather information and Zagat restaurant ratings. Hyundai will offer the complete suite of Blue Link features on a complementary basis for three months, with a 6-month trial period for those in the Assurance Package.
No word yet on pricing for the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Sedan which goes on sale later this year.
