
Codenamed BHL, Hyundai has begun testing of a long-wheel-base luxury sedan based on the upcoming and much anticipated rear-wheel-drive Genesis/i50. Sources are referring to this luxury sedan as the i70, but the name is not yet confirmed.
It's unclear if the car will be marketed as a distinct model from the Genesis/i50 or if it will be sold as a LWB (long-wheel-base) variant. The size of the car is also a bit of a mystery. The Genesis is thought to be the size of a BMW 5-Series or Mercedes E-Class, so it's fair to assume this model will lie somewhere between those dimensions and the BMW 7-Series or Mercedes S-Class.
Sources say it will be offered as a V8 model only and will be even more prestigious than the Genesis. As Hyundai is using Cadillac and Lexus as benchmarks, expect high-tech gizmos, as well as many other luxury amenities.
The i70 / BHL should arrive in dealerships about a year after the Genesis, but that’s not all: the BH rear-drive platform may also spawn a Coupe/Cabrio entry for the 2010 model year.
Hyundai has officially unveiled the Genesis in its home-market today at a private unveiling in South Korea. The "Showcase" event was exclusive to invited members only including reporters, analysts, high-class doctors and lawyers at the Hyundai-Kia Namyang R&D Center. The event also provided the participants to compare the Genesis to mainstream Mercedes-Benz and BMW models.
The Genesis is packed with premium features including a standard 6-speed AT, also found in the Veracruz. The Korean model will be available with a 3.3L V6 producing 265 horsepower, and a 3.8L V6 producing 305 horsepower. The North American models will receive the 3.8L and a 4.6L Tau V8 that produces a staggering 380 horsepower. This means the Genesis is neck-in-neck with the Lexus LS460 and 18 more horsepower than the Pontiac G8 GT. The Genesis is also featured with Smart Cruise Control (SCC), Adaptive Headlamps, Driver Information System, and a Harman/Becker Lexicon Audio System. Lexicons are currently only found in the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Other goodies include push-start button and electronic stability control.
As the nomenclature describes, the Genesis is only the brand's beginning of a fresh start and the perception-changer for consumers throughout the world. The Korean Genesis will be Hyundai badge-free, with only emblems touting 'Genesis' scattered throughout the exterior and interior of the vehicle. The North American models will still receive the Hyundai badges.
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