When the Hyundai Genesis sedan arrived, I questioned whether anyone would spend that much money for a Hyundai. The rear-wheel drive sedan was well-appointed and offered a great ride, but I never imagined the Hyundai badge as something good.
People who want status buy it through nameplates like BMW, Mercedes, Cadillac and Lexus. Certainly, there are some up-and-coming badges, too, but none of them hail from South Korea.
Wow, was I wrong.
The Genesis sedan still offers a great ride and remains tricked out with subtle luxury that feels understated and posh. But the Hyundai name has even seen a bit of a transformation over the past few years, beginning with its assurance program that promised to buy back your car if you lost your job.
It was absolute genius. Hyundai's reputation went through the roof for the price of a few hundred cars. The brand continues to grow faster than most in the industry.
But, more importantly, Hyundai seems to understand that reputation will take a company only so far. The proof is on the blacktop and the slightly improved 2012 Genesis 5.0 R Spec charts new territory for a brand that is full of surprises.
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