Our buddies from Autoblog.it have just been visiting Hyundai headquarters in Seoul to see with their own eyes how the South-Korean carmaker managed to grow up so much in the past few years. While there, they got the chance to see the Genesis Prada, a sedan which has been developed with the input of the famous Italian fashion label. The two companies had already worked together in the past, when in 2009 they put out a very limited edition of the same model, of which only three units were produced.
First off, this special version of the Genesis will not get out of the Asian continent. Although the standard version is being sold in North America as well, rumor has it that just 1,000 Genesis Prada will be built and then destined to the markets of China, Korea and Middle East. The car is equipped with a 5.0-litre GDI V8 Tau engine delivering 430 hp mated to a 8-speed automatic transmission, which would actually make it a little bit ‘over the top’ for most European markets. The exterior design of the model appears to be well-proportioned, sober and straight to the point: surely it is not something particularly exciting, but it is not disreputable either. Perhaps the front grille looks a bit outdated, but it might be suitable for those markets where the Genesis Prada will soon go on sale.
Prada’s contribution to the model includes the choice of the paint-job - a tone of blue that adds up to its executive feel - the design of the 19″ alloy rims, the red cover for the engine and, most significantly, the handcraft for the passenger compartment, a feature that will surely provide this version of the Genesis with an extra boost once it gets to the marketplace. The pictured model, that our mates from Autoblog.it photographed during their recent visit in Seoul, uses white leather upholstery and aluminum inserts for console and dashboard, providing the cabin a certain feel of brightness. Besides, Prada badges can be spotted here and there both inside and outside the car. To find out more about Hyundai Genesis Prada, click on the ‘Continue reading’ link below.’
View the full Hyundai Genesis Prada photo gallery
South Korea’s largest automaker Hyundai Motor Company uploaded a few images of the redesigned Genesis Coupe on its Facebook page. Judging by these pictures, the front end seems to be the part which underwent the most significant upgrading, now sporting the hexagonal-ish front grille that is becoming a signature feature of the Korean manufacturer.
The new Genesis Coupe will come with two engines: the Lambda 3.8 GDi and the Theta 2.0 TCI. In particular, the Lambda 3.8 GDi engine significantly increases performance and efficiency by directly injecting fuel into the cylinder. The new Genesis Coupe delivers maximum output of 345 hp and peak torque of 400 Nm,. Compared to Genesis Coupe’s previous engine, this represents an improvement of 46 hp and 39 Nm. The Theta 2.0 TCI engine uses a larger radiator intercooler for the high-performance turbocharger that cools air more effectively. Compared to its predecessor, this unit his increases maximum output and maximum torque by 64 hp and 78 Nm to 271 hp and 372 Nm respectively.
The new car has been unveiled on November 12 at the Korea Speed Festival 2011 in Yeongam, South Korea, and will be presented at the North American public during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit (January 9-22).
Rhys Millen Racing (RMR) has prepared a special version of Hyundai Genesis Coupe that is currently on display at the SEMA in Vegas. The car has been renamed RM500 and uses the same 5.0-litre V8 Tau engine powering the standard model that - combined with a new exhaust system and titanium tips, oil cooler, and rear differential cooler - provides the RM500 with no less than 450 hp.
This Rhys Millen’s rendition of Hyundai Genesis also uses 19″ alloy wheels, Brembo carbon ceramic braking system and a number of accessories specifically produced by RMR for this model. The most notable of these accessories are the new front lip spoiler, side skirts, diffuser and overlay roof, all made of carbon fiber. RM 500’s passenger compartment is equipped with RMR Interior Suede Trip Package consisting of Chrono sport seats, Sparco track sliders, seat brackets and leather shift knob.
Via | Carscoop
View the full Hyundai Genesis Coupè RM500 photo gallery
Samsung has just announced all the details related to its new luxury sedan - the SM7 - which mirrores the concept car displayed in Seoul last April. Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos (now working at Seat) has been looking after this vehicle stylistical approach, trying to deliver a car able to challenge its direct competitor, the Hyundai Genesis. Samsung SM7 comes with two sunroofs, retractable sun-shades, LED lights, electrically adjustable leather seats with heat option and massage function for the driver’s, Bose sound system, tri-zone air-conditioning system, fragrance diffuser, air-ionizer and plenty of storage space.
The new Samsung SM7 measures 4.99 m in lenght (2.82 m wheelbase) and rear passengers will enjoy more than 70 mm knee room. It employes many Nissan components including the six-cylinders VQ25 and VQ35 engines, 190 hp and 258 hp respectively, both featuring a six speed automatic transmission with manual shift function. According to press releases, the most powerful petrol engine should have a fuel consumption of 10.4 l / 100 km on the combined cycle, while the diesel motor - also of Nissan origins - will only be presented at a later stage.
View the full Samsung SM7 Photo Gallery