NCTD: 2009 Hyundai Genesis

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Walk Around

The Genesis is based on an all-new rear-wheel-drive architecture. (This same structure will host an upcoming two-door Genesis coupe.) The Genesis is sized similar to the Pontiac G8, both in length and wheelbase, and is about six inches shorter than the Chrysler 300.

On the outside, the Genesis looks like the lovechild of a BMW 5 Series and a Mercedes-Benz E Class. Hyundai says the design is quot;athletic, not so aggressive, assertive, but not polarizing.quot; We agree, though, we feel a little more flavor might draw more customers.

Up front, the trapezoidal grille is reminiscent of a Mercedes design, but instead of rounded headlights, it's flanked by more modern eye-slit headlights. Fog lights are standard on the lower fascia, which also features a large lower air intake. Halogen headlights are standard, and the Technology Package includes auto-leveling high-intensity discharge adaptive headlights that point into turns to improve night-time vision on dark corners.

Character lines echoing the shape of the grille flow into the hood and resolve themselves at the front pillars. The rest of the car has more angular shapes like a BMW instead of the softer, rounder shapes of a Mercedes. The greenhouse is practically identical to that of the 5 Series, right down to the dogleg shape of the rear pillars. Ornamentation along the flanks is minimal, with only an upper beltline that flows from the front wheel openings to the taillights and a kickout at the bottom of the doors. Standard 17-inch wheels fill the wheelwells nicely, and the available 18s look even better.

At the rear, the Genesis has the high trunk line that was so controversial for BMW five years ago but has now come into use by several manufacturers. A lower fascia flanked by dual exhaust gives a hint to the Genesis's sporty character.