Hyundai Genesis UK launch - price from £47,995

The Hyundai Genesis – an upmarket Hyundai hoping to take on cars like the BMW 5 Series – launches in the UK in a single spec from £47,995.

Hyundai Genesis launches in the UK

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The new Hyundai Genesis has been getting rave reviews from the markets which already have it, not just for its ability to compete head-on with premium brands, but also for its build quality and safety. And now the Hyundai Genesis is launching in the UK.

Good news though an upmarket car in a segment Hyundai has never tried before in the UK is, we’re not entirely sure Hyundai is fully committed to the idea that they can take on the BMW 5 Series, Jaguar XF, Mercedes E-Class, at al in, the UK

That’s because the Genesis hits the UK in just a single spec – a very good spec, mind you – but with no engine option other than a 3.8 litre V6 petrol engine with a bit over 300bhp and eight-speed auto ‘box, good for 62mph in under 7 seconds and economy of 24.4mpg. Not exactly an engine of choice for most buyers, though; wouldn’t Hyundai have done better going mad and offering the more appealing V8 as the only choice?

Still, let’s look at the UK’s introduction to the Genesis as a toe in the water for Hyundai, and hope a model that doesn’t really fit UK buyers all that well will still whet appetites for Hyundai to offer more appealing options, like 4WD, a powerful diesel and the more powerful 420bhp V8 version of the Genesis.

Hyundai Genesis Interior

The spec for the UK Genesis includes a high-quality interior with plenty of space, fine grain leather, 8″ touchscreen with advanced Infotainment, a CO2 sensor that monitors air quality to prevent drowsiness, 360 degree cameras and heads-up display.

Lots of other toys add to the package with stuff like Adaptive Cruise, Auto Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection, Smart Boot and Puddle Lights included in the price, and a choice of seven metallic and pearlescent paint jobs and three interior trim options.

It’s a very credible package; decent-looking, well made and appealing. And certainly worth a look if you’re in the market.

The new Hyundai Genesis goes on sale in the UK on April 2 at £47,995 through a select set of Hyundai’s UK dealers (below).