2009 Hyundai Genesis Priced from $33,000

Even though Hyundai didn't deliver its promise for a sub- $30,000 sticker nevertheless, the all-new Genesis is more than competitively priced at $33,000 for the the entry-level 290Hp V6 model -about the same as the BMW 328i ($32,400), and at $38,000 for the top-of-the range 375Hp V8 version.

When referring to the new Genesis, Hyundai’s people like to describe it as "a car the size of the BMW 7 Series with the performance of the 5 Series and at the price of the 3 Series." Though we find it hard to believe that anyone looking for a German premium sedan will give the Genesis a chance (for various reasons that don’t always have to do with the car itself), we gather that those shopping for a Japanese or an American model won't have a problem adding the Korean luxury sedan to their list. -Details after the jump

HYUNDAI GENESIS

Genesis 3.8 V6 – Standard Equipment

All Genesis 3.8 models come very well-equipped, including a 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engine, Aisin six-speed automatic transmission with ShiftronicTM, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with traction control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and 17-inch alloy wheels with P225/55R17 tires.

Additional standard equipment includes advanced front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, roof-mounted side curtain airbags, electronic front head restraints, fog lamps, automatic headlights, dual power heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, leather seating surfaces with heated front seats, power seats, cruise control, Hyundai’s signature white and blue interior lighting with electroluminescent cluster, proximity entry with electric push button start, leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel with audio controls, dual front fully automatic HVAC, electrochromic auto-dimming interior rearview mirror with Homelink and compass, AM/FM/CD/MP3/XM (3-month subscription) with iPod/USB and auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth and floor mats.

Genesis 4.6 – Standard Equipment

The Genesis 4.6 builds on the standard equipment found on the Genesis 3.8, adding a 4.6-liter DOHC V8, ZF six-speed automatic transmission, unique 18-inch hyper-silver alloy wheels with P235/50R18-inch tires, chrome lower bodyside moldings, ultra-premium leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped dash and door trim inserts, power glass sunroof with tilt and slide, power tilt and telescopic steering column, integrated memory system, Lexicon 15-speaker surround sound audio system, six-disc CD changer, illuminated scuff plates, wood-trimmed leather steering wheel, electrochromic auto-dimming interior rearview mirror with Homelink and compass, power rear sunshade and rain-sensing wipers with auto defogger windshield.