All-New 2015 Hyundai Genesis Introduces New All-Wheel Drive System

Hyundai ushers in a new era for its world-class premium product range with the recent unveiling of the all-new second-generation 2015 Genesis sedan at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. With a single-minded focus on delivering the driving and ownership experience expected of the best premium sedans in the world, Hyundai has redesigned the Genesis from the ground up with bold styling, cutting-edge technologies, and exceptional driving dynamics.

Originally introduced in 2009, Hyundai’s signature “Fluidic Sculpture” design language has since influenced every model in the brand’s line-up. The all-new 2015 Genesis is the first Hyundai product to feature the styling theme’s second generation, dubbed Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. While fluidic forms remain the core of the design language, they’re presented in a more refined and simple manner. Adaptable to the company’s entire product range, Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 will give all Hyundai products a consistent modern aesthetic and a premium overall feel.

The 2015 Genesis will be the first Hyundai model to incorporate the brand’s all-new HTRAC all-wheel drive (AWD) system. Developed to offer consistent all-weather traction while improving the vehicle’s dynamic behaviour, HTRAC underwent extensive testing at Germany’s Nürburgring Nordschleife race track, Korea’s Yeongam Formula 1 racing circuit, and Hyundai’s California Proving Ground. Weighing just 61 kilograms, HTRAC distributes power through a variable torque split clutch.

HTRAC is controlled in part by the Genesis’ new drive mode system. With the vehicle set in “Normal” mode, HTRAC defaults to a 40:60 rear-wheel biased torque distribution. The system can shift as much as 90 percent of engine output to the front axle in slippery conditions or 100 percent to the rear at higher speeds for reduced driveline drag and improved fuel economy. When the vehicle’s “Sport” mode is selected, HTRAC’s response is modified to counteract understeer and oversteer by sending power to the front or back as required. At speed in Sport mode, HTRAC gives Genesis a rear-wheel drive character by sending 80 to 90 percent of power output to the rear wheels.

Genesis will offer a choice of revised 3.8-litre GDI V6 and 5.0-litre GDI V8 engines for 2015. Each receives a series of enhancements aimed at improving low-end torque, driveability, and fuel economy.

Now developing an estimated 311 horsepower and 293 lb-ft of torque, the 3.8-litre “Lambda” V6 receives better breathing by way of a new 3-stage Variable Induction System (VIS).

The 2015 Genesis is underpinned by an all-new platform incorporating 38 percent more advanced high tensile-strength steel than its previous-generation counterpart. Torsional and bending rigidity have been increased by 16 and 40 percent, respectively, surpassing the BMW 5-series in both measures. The structure of the vehicle was engineered to meet the most stringent international government and independent agency safety standards.

Genesis models equipped with the 5.0-litre V8 receive a Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension capable of automatically adjusting its damping rate based on road conditions and the drive mode selected. The suspension is calibrated for superior ride comfort in Normal, Eco, and Snow modes while Sport mode firms the damping rate for enhanced handling precision and control.

Genesis features Hyundai’s first application of Rack-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS) which can vary power assistance based on readings from an integrated torque sensor. To balance high speed stability with direct response at lower speeds, Genesis uses a Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) system. All elements in the steering rack have been calibrated to offer accurate feedback and responsive handling behaviour.

Genesis comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels and 245 millimetre section width tires at all four corners. Staggered fitment 19-inch alloy wheels with larger 275 millimetre section width rear tires are equipped on 5.0-litre V8 models to improve power delivery. The vehicle’s new alloy wheels are stronger and more resistant to deflection forces for more precise response to changing road surfaces. Stopping power is provided by four-piston fixed front brake calipers and large 345 or 360 millimetre rotors for V6 and V8 models, respectively.

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