2012 Hyundai Genesis R-Spec

By Zack Spencer     March 21, 2012

The Scoop

The Hyundai Genesis has been a success in terms of promoting the brand's ability to build and design at the highest level. Introduced in 2009, the sedan version won both the Canadian and North American Car of the Year awards and sent a shot across the bow of established brands. A year later Hyundai introduced a coupe under the Genesis name but these two products should not be confused, one is a luxury sedan the coupe is a smaller, very sporty car. It is surprising they share the same name; the coupe could have been called Tiburon, which was Hyundai last attempt at a sporty two-door. Both the sedan and coupe have received major updates recently. For those looking for a powerful, eye appealing full-sized sedan on a budget, this R-Spec version is a head turning option.

The Skin

The Genesis sedan is sold in two basic trims, a V6 and then the V8 R-Spec model seen hear. Both receive exterior updates for 2012 including new headlights with LED accents, a bigger grille opening, a new front bumper with chrome trim along with thicker rocker panels, brighter side window trim, new wheel designs, improved rear taillights, bumper and exhaust tips. What sets the R-Spec apart are very aggressive 19-inch polished alloy wheels, extra chrome around the windows and dark chrome surrounding the more aggressive head lamps. The first version of the Genesis was a perfect example of design by committee, where this model has a much more cohesive look. What makes the R-Spec even more attractive is an ''all-in'' price of $53,499; cheap compared to anything from Lexus, BMW, Audi and Mercedes.

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