Hyundai has just revealed the 2012 Genesis luxury sedan at the Chicago Auto Show, including a new 429-hp R-Spec performance model, as well as important upgrades to the V6 and V8 powertrains.
With nearly a half a liter more displacement than the standard V8, the Tau 5.0-liter also gains direct-injection technology to deliver 429-hp at 6400 rpm and 376 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm. That's an increase of 44-hp and 43 lb-ft of torque over the standard 4.6-liter, which continues on for 2012. Both engines also get a new 8-speed automatic which Hyundai touts as delivering a more refined drive, though the fuel economy gains are minimal with Hyundai claiming just a 1-mpg highway increase for the 4.6, while the 5.0-liter is down slightly at 16/25-mpg.
As for the standard V6 engine, it also gains direct-injection and an 8-speed transmission, resulting in more power and improved fuel economy. With an increase of 43-hp and 27 lb-ft of torque, output is now rated at 333-hp and 291 lb-ft. Hyundai hasn't announced city fuel economy ratings, but highway mileage is up from 27-mpg to 29-mpg.
Genesis 3.8 ad 4.6 models get larger brake rotors and upgraded calipers to improve stopping distances, while 3.8-liter models get a larger rear sway bar to improve handling. All models get a reworked exterior with new LED accents and new 17-inch wheels.
As for the 5.0-liter R-Spec model it gets 19-inch wheels, dark chrome headlight inserts as well as specific tuning for the transmission, suspension and steering.
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2012 Hyundai Genesis R-Spec Boasts 429-HP, Upgraded V6 Gets 333-HP on AutoGuide.com