The October 2008 issue of Motor Trend sports an article about a test of the Hyundai Genesis 4.6, where it is tested against a Chrysler 300C, a Lexus GS 460, and a Mercedes E550.
It is a very interesting read in that it outdoes or compares very favorably in all the test categories. Perhaps most telling is the closing statement to the entire article.
Is the Genesis a knockoff?
Absolutely.
The largest and most luxurious model Hyundai at present is the Hyundai Genesis, which is a large size sedan that competes to some extent with the Mercedes E-Class, Audi A6 and BMW 5Series by price, although dimensions are closer to the segment next higher. The Hyundai Genesis will also compete for customers with cars like Lexus ES, Chrysler 300 and Cadillac CTS.
Truly it is the Hyundai Genesis against the world!
The Genesis' performance and luxury aspects are comparable to sedans costing tens of thousands of dollars more in the luxury market. In other words, Hyundai's strategy for hitting the luxury market competition, is to hit where it hurts.
Each item in this car is so carefully attended to so as to ensure that they stand apart - whether it is the gear levers, visors, cup holders or seat controls, it appears that they belong to a luxury sedan. The Genesis has a plush dashboard that would match Jaguars and its interior also highlights some sort of control interface that recalls much of the Audi MMI.
Since its launch in January 2008, it has sold over 20,000 units, a bombing that has caught by surprise. Hyundai was not expecting such a high figure from the new Hyundai Genesis. With the advent of Hyundai Genesis Hyundai has become on a par with German and Japanese brands.
Hyundai is applying the same price game plan that Lexus, Acura and Infiniti applied when they came out to compete with Mercedes Benz, BMW and other luxury cars. A part of their success was because they were cheaper back then than the others.
In the world of luxury, it is the brand that sells. It is in this market that the Hyundai Genesis has managed to position itself into a unique spot where it has started generating attention.
We at Genesis are developing our brand image and when you say Porsche, people understand "speed and performance". Likewise, when one says BMW, you understand that the car must handle well, and when they hear Rolls, it is generally understood that the car has luxury features.
At http://www.genesisowners.com you’ll find owners of recent model Lexus, BMW and Infiniti vehicles and who have switched over to the Genesis.
Hyundai wants its new premium sedan Hyundai Genesis to be its brand image.
It is certain that the Hyundai Genesis would achieve its goal. With the Genesis, Hyundai has created a design generic that is recognizable and a brand image that is desirable.
Hyundai Genesis’ new adventure against the world has just begun, and it sure will be exciting.
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