Genesis points the way to the architecture and design of a rear-wheel drive premium sports sedan scheduled to grace the Hyundai lineup in selected left-hand-drive markets in 2008.
The car rides on a prototype of Hyundai’s all-new rear-wheel-drive platform. Powered by Hyundai’s newly developed Tau twincam, 32-valve, all-alloy V8 engine, Genesis "marks the beginning of premium performance for the Hyundai brand", according to the company.

The proposition -- targeted very much at America -- is a highly capable rear-wheel-drive car with a high performance powertrain and cotemporary design for a starting price of well under US$30,000.

Concept Genesis features a rear-wheel-drive architecture, its first application in a US Hyundai model. Rear-wheel-drive provides a 53:47 front/rear weight distribution as well as (we are assured) precise steering characteristics. Handling is assisted by an electronic stability program (ESP).

The body shell is quite a piece of engineering, for according to Hyundai is boasts a 12-14% higher dynamic torsional rigidity and a lower body-in-white weight than the BMW 5series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Under the bonnet is the all-new Tau 4.6-litre V8 engine mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual control and a limited-slip differential. It delivers "well over 300 horsepower" (223kW). This powertrain will launch Genesis to 96km/h (60mph) in "well under 6 seconds", the company promises.

Subsequent Tau variants may offer larger displacement, forced induction options and other technology enhancements.

The front 5-link suspension features upper and lower arms linking the front wheels to the chassis. This arrangement creates a virtual king pin axis which "dramatically reduces" unwanted kickback through the steering wheel as well as improving responsiveness. The rear end is also handled by a sophisticated 5-link design.

Suspension performance can be altered by the driver by selecting various setting for ride and handling.

In terms of safety, in addition to the ESP, there is traction control, 8 airbags and active head restraints. Braking is by large discs with ABS, brake-assist and electronic brake-force distribution. The gizmo list includes adaptive cruise control, HID headlamps, satellite naviation, reversing camera, push-button ignition, bluetooth technology etc.