The Hyundai Genesis is a midsize sedan that started out as a 2009 model year and ended its run in 2016.
It marked Hyundai’s first foray into the luxury car market, offering a combination of performance, upscale features, and a competitive price point compared to other luxury brands.
In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at all of the best and worst model years of the Genesis.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Hyundai Genesis Are:
The best Hyundai Genesis model years are 2016, 2014, and 2011. The worst model years of this model are 2013, 2012, 2010, 2009, and 2015. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Hyundai Genesis?
2016 Hyundai Genesis
The 2016 Genesis marks the final year of production before Hyundai’s upscale division transitioned into the current Genesis G80.
It largely maintains the design of the thoroughly revamped 2015 model, while rectifying its earlier problems and drawbacks.
Offering outstanding value, it features ample interior space and a high-quality cabin.
There are 2 available variants: Genesis 3.8 (V6) and the Genesis 5.0 Ultimate (V8).
The base model comes with a 3.8-liter V6 engine (311 horsepower, 293 pound-feet of torque) and has an EPA-estimated 19 to 22 MPG for combined city and highway driving.
The Ultimate trim has a larger 5-liter V8 engine (420 horsepower, 383 pound-feet of torque) and has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 18 MPG for combined city and highway driving.
Key safety features of this model includes:
- Backup camera
- Blindspot monitoring
- Lane departure warning
- Alarm system
- Tire pressure warning system
- Stability control
- Pre-collision safety system
- Post-collision safety system
On top of all the helpful safety and driver assistance features, this model also scored a perfect NHTSA safety overall rating of 5 out of 5.
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2016 Hyundai Genesis, Edmunds Review:
“The Genesis is now 8 years old with 89,500K miles and never had a problem. The car runs and handles like new. The interior is like new and the paint is still brilliant. Not one component has failed on his car. Oil changes are at 8K to 10K with Mobil 1 extended life and oil usage is less than a pint. Best car I have ever owned.”
2014 Hyundai Genesis
The 2014 Genesis remains a dependable choice, maintaining its appeal even a decade after its debut.
It provides a selection of smooth, robust engines, an opulent interior, and an elite Lexicon audio system with 14 speakers.
This model year introduces standard 18-inch wheels for the 3.8 version, and a newly available heated steering wheel option for the 5.0 model.
Owner reviews highlight these significant features of the sedan:
- Appearance
- Comfort
- Ride quality
- Handling
- Steering
- Value for money
- Fuel economy
- Reliability
- Manufacturing quality
Depending on the chosen model, the EPA estimates that drivers can anticipate a combined city and highway fuel economy ranging from 18 to 21 MPG.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 86 / 100
2014 Hyundai Genesis, Edmunds Review:
“Okay, I have read some horrible reviews on this car on this website and I can tell you from owning it personally for two years now that some people will complain about absolutely anything for no reason. I have had zero mechanical issues and zero paint issues…”
2011 Hyundai Genesis
The 2011 Genesis exudes the classic elegance of early 2000s and 2010s luxury sedans, complemented by high-end features. It offers a plush ride, effortless handling, and robust engine choices.
This model year introduces a 10-horsepower increase for the 4.6 variant.
There are two trim levels: Genesis 3.8 and Genesis 4.6.
The Genesis 3.8 is equipped with standard features like 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, fog lights, heated mirrors, a sunroof, and keyless ignition/entry, among others.
The premium Genesis 4.6 builds on the base model, adding 18-inch wheels, automatic wipers, and leather upholstery.
Key safety features include an alarm system, tire pressure monitoring, stability control, and a rearview camera.
The 3.8-liter V6 engine delivers 290 horsepower, while the 4.6-liter V8 offers a more potent 378 horsepower.
According to EPA estimates, this model year achieves between 20 and 21 MPG for combined city and highway driving.
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 76 / 100
2011 Hyundai Genesis, Edmunds Review:
“This car is much quicker than you think. It is so smooth and quite that your speed builds extremely fast within a very few seconds. The Tech package is great. If you want a sports car don’t buy this one. If you want a combination of luxury, power, comfort and tech features then this is the auto for you. The bang for the buck factor is off the charts…”
Consumer Scores For Best Hyundai Genesis Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2016 Hyundai Genesis | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2014 Hyundai Genesis | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 86 / 100 |
| 2011 Hyundai Genesis | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 76 / 100 |
Related: How Long Do Genesis G70 Last? (12 Important Facts)
What Are The Worst Years For The Hyundai Genesis?
2013 and 2012 Hyundai Genesis
The 2013 and 2012 Genesis models are regarded as the most problematic iterations ever produced. They experienced a variety of issues, particularly related to the engine and brakes.
Engine-related problems were especially significant, with key issues including engine stalling, excessive oil consumption, and a noticeable loss of power and acceleration.
“Multiple times I have accelerated the car to get onto the highway, change lanes quickly,and make right on red lights, only to have it literally do nothing. At times it takes 2 to 3 seconds before it accelerates and then seems to have a tough time shifting through the gears. At low speeds the car seems to hesitate and shift poorly. Hopefully the dealer can do something to correct the issue.” – CarProblemZoo.com
Under brake-related problems, several reports have indicated soft/spongy brakes, ABS module defects, and brake pedal pressure loss.
“I was driving to work. I saw a red light signal and stepped on the brake pedal. But the pedal just went down very softly without stopping my car. My car stopped after I pressed full force on the brake pedal. By the time my car stopped it had already passed 15 feet from the stop line where I had to stop.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2013 Hyundai Genesis had a total of 36 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 235 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2012 Hyundai Genesis had a total of 72 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 355 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Paint peeling
- Car accelerates on its own
- Not shifting properly
- Engine stalls/shuts off while driving
- Engine failure
- Soft brakes
2010 and 2009 Hyundai Genesis
The 2010 and 2009 Genesis models seem to be the precursors to the problematic 2013 and 2012 models, exhibiting similar and widespread brake-related issues.
Owners have reported various concerns, such as brake failure, reduced braking effectiveness at high speeds, unresponsive brakes, and failures of the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU). These issues have resulted in substantial repair expenses and considerable vehicle downtime.
“The contact owns a 2009 Hyundai Genesis. The contact stated that while at a stop, the brake pedal abnormally traveled to the floorboard. The contact mentioned that the failure would recur intermittently. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the hydraulic electronic control unit needed to be replaced…” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2010 Hyundai Genesis had a total of 17 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 201 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2009 Hyundai Genesis had a total of 37 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 302 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Brake failure
- Oxidized and cracked paint on handles
- Backup camera fails intermittently
- Battery continuously discharges
- Difficulty shifting
- Abnormal noises
2015 Hyundai Genesis
The 2015 Genesis, fortunately, managed to avoid many of the major problems and issues that plagued the earlier models.
However, it did encounter its own set of challenges, predominantly electrical in nature.
The array of electrical and electronic issues is extensive, with the most common problems including:
- Battery connection issues
- Instrument cluster glitches
- Sudden engine failure
- Headlight, tail light, and daytime running light (DRL) defects
- Multiple warning indicators flashing
- Door locking issues
- ESC failure
- Engine not shutting off
- Vehicle startup issues
“During start-up while stationary, car randomly experienced a full loss of electrical power rendering the whole car inoperable and requiring a tow truck. Upon tow truck arriving at destination, car was running. Highly unsafe…” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2015 Hyundai Genesis had a total of 75 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 299 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Multiple electrical failures
- Airbag deployed unintentionally
- Radio issues
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Hyundai Genesis | 11 | 95 | 2 |
| 2015 Hyundai Genesis | 75 | 299 | 5 |
| 2014 Hyundai Genesis | 4 | 52 | 0 |
| 2013 Hyundai Genesis | 36 | 235 | 0 |
| 2012 Hyundai Genesis | 72 | 355 | 2 |
| 2011 Hyundai Genesis | 19 | 172 | 3 |
| 2010 Hyundai Genesis | 17 | 201 | 3 |
| 2009 Hyundai Genesis | 37 | 302 | 3 |
What Problems Do Hyundai Genesis Have?
- Engine stalls/shuts off while driving
- Multiple electrical failures
- Brake failure
- Airbag deployed unintentionally
- Radio issues
- Engine failure
- Soft brakes
- Battery continuously discharges
- Difficulty shifting
- Abnormal noises
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Hyundai Genesis?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Lexus ES | 8.8 | $20,345 | City: 21 /Highway: 31 |
| Lexus GS | 8.7 | $23,717 – $43,771 | City: 16 – 22 /Highway: 24 – 33 |
| Audi A6 | 8.2 | $16,908 – $28,479 | City: 18 – 25 /Highway: 27 – 38 |
| Cadillac CTS | 8.2 | $16,100 – $44,320 | City: 14 – 21 /Highway: 21 – 31 |
| Mercedes-Benz E-Class | 8.2 | $18,440 – $50,442 | City: 15 – 28 /Highway: 21 – 42 |
| Jaguar XF | 8.1 | $16,893 – $21,293 | City: 20 /Highway: 28 – 30 |
| BMW 5-Series | 8.0 | $17,224 – $37,583 | City: 14 – 26 /Highway: 20 – 38 |
| Hyundai Genesis | 8.0 | $18,131 – $39,893 | City: 15 – 18 /Highway: 23 – 29 |
| Acura TLX | 7.9 | $16,699 – $21,743 | City: 21 – 24 /Highway: 31 – 35 |
| Infiniti Q70 | 7.7 | $20,362 – $28,117 | City: 16 – 29 /Highway: 23 – 34 |
| Volkswagen CC | 7.7 | $11,656 – $22,323 | City: 17 – 22 /Highway: 25 – 32 |
| Volvo S80 | 7.5 | $18,912 – $21,056 | City: 25 /Highway: 37 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 6 Best & Worst Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Years (Facts & Stats)
References
- https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/hyundai/genesis/2016
- https://www.edmunds.com/hyundai/genesis/2016/review/
- https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/genesis/
- https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2016/hyundai/genesis
- https://www.carcomplaints.com/Hyundai/Genesis/
- https://www.carproblemzoo.com/hyundai/genesis/
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/
