A while back Hundai began displaying the new Genesis concept vehicles. First the coupe, then later the sedan. Originally they were claiming it would have “over 300 horsepower”, but today we learned it will actually be 375! Oh, and they are claiming it will cost around $40k!?!

I’ve not been a fan of Hyundai in the past, but if they keep moving up market like this I’m going to have to take a very serious look. They are claiming it’s going to have all the features found on luxury vehicles from Mercedes, Lexus, Infinity and BMW such as:

• Push button start and intelligent key entry
• Heated AND cooled seats
• Reverse camera and navigation
• Rear wheel drive, a big V8, and 6 speed auto transmission
• Automatic wipers and window defoggers
• Active headlights that aim around corners
• 100,000 miles worth of warranty

The only question is… will buyers be willing to overlook the less than premium brand if they can get all the bells and whistles of a BMW at half the price? Well, if I’m any indication, I’d say it’s a definite maybe. I’ll have to wait and reserve judgement till I have the opportunity to get behind the wheel and see how it really performs.
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