Best Cars of 2009: Hyundai Genesis

Price: $32,250-$37,250

What's New: The whole car is new for Hyundai, which is trying to move its image upscale. The ride, handling, packaging, and features are all Bavarian by inspiration. This rear-drive Korean sports sedan delivers on everything except maybe a slightly flabby design profile. V-8 engine is optional. Following the Santa Fe, Sonata, and Veracruz, Hyundai is showing that it has a product line to lead its brand to parity with Toyota.

Why It's Good: It delivers a substantial discount to BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class, though brand cachet is in the wallet of the beholder.

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