2012 Hyundai Genesis R-Spec; 5,0L GDI V8 engine, 8-speed transmission

At the 2011 Chicago Auto Show, Hyundai Motor America unveiled the 2012 Genesis sedan, which received some subtle styling updates, brand-new 429-horsepower 5.0 liter V8 engine and new sporty trim, called R-Spec. Named the 2012 Genesis R-Spec, the models is expected to be the most expensive Genesis yet with pricing between $45.000 and $50.000.

The 2012 Hyundai Genesis R-spec, which is slated to go on sale in April this year, received a plethora of new sporty features such as unique 19-inch alloy wheels with premium machined finish, dark chrome headlamp inserts, exclusive R-Spec sport transmission, suspension and steering calibrations. Hyundai revealed it will offer the 2012 Genesis R-Spec in three “sport oriented exterior colors”: Black Noir, Titanium Gray and Platinum Metallic.

In terms of fuel economy, the Genesis R-Spec model will closely match that of the 2011 Genesis 4.6L but the EPA is still to rate the 2012 Genesis. Meanwhile, a fuel economy of 17 MPG in the city driving and 26 MPG on the highway is offered by the 2011 Genesis. A 15 percent improvement in the output from 290 hp to 333 hp will be delivered by the base 3.8 liter V6 in the 2012 Genesis. A carry over from the 2011 model has been done with the 4.6 liter V8 present in the 2012 Genesis.

An upgrade from the two different six-speed transmissions offered in the 2011 Genesis can be observed as all the three variants in the 2012 Genesis lineup have gotten an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The 2012 Hyundai Genesis has also obtained a significant face-lift. With redesigned headlights having LED accents, redesigned tail-lights and brushed aluminum finish on the side window surrounds, Hyundai has provided the 2012 Genesis with a more aggressive front fascia. A revised grille and aggressive side skirts have also been added. Daytime running lights are now available in all models. Also, all the models will be equipped with beefier brakes and a returned suspension with a bigger rear stabilizer bar.

Brand new power folding side mirrors, heated rear seats, rearview camera, DVD navigation system with 7-inch touchscreen, XM NavTraffic and 18-inch Hyper Silver split-spoke alloy wheels are being offered in the Genesis 3.8 Premium package.