So many people are unflinching badge snobs. I personally judge a car by how it looks, performs, and prices out vs it's direct competition, not who's label is slapped on it. I do agree that Hyundai has not proven itself (yet) capable of making a serious sports car, but I believe they have matured enough as an automaker for their efforts with the Genesis to be taken seriously. Hyundai's quality and image has improved by leaps and bounds since 2001. On most of their car's, they now trail only slightly behind Toyota in reliability and safety in most reviews. Factor in a 5yr 60k bumper to bumper warranty, 100k warranty on the power train (original owner only), and the fact Hyundai's model for model clock in thousands less than the big three's similar offerings, it's hard not to place Hyundai as a serious contender.
I've owned two Hyundai's, a 2001 V6 Sante Fe and 2005 Sonata V6 (current). Both have proven themselves to be fantastic family cars and I would not hesitate to recommend or buy another Hyundai as a family or commuter car.
I certainly hope Hyundai makes a good first break into the performance sport car market with the Genesis while maintaining the great warranty, aggressive pricing, and near Japanese reliability that has remade Hyundai into the real contender it has evolved to be.
I like what I see with the Genesis and remain anxious to see how it does in reviews. My only gripe with it is the disturbing trend of making the cd headunit's in the consoles so unique, that their is no way to install an aftermarket one.
