(continued from above)
In keeping with Hyundai engineering philosophy, the R-Spec will include more
aggressive chassis tuning, matching its corresponding powertrain enhancements
for optimal dynamic balance. For enhanced body roll control, front stabilizer
bar diameter has been increased from 25 mm to 26 mm, and rear diameter from 18
mm to 19 mm over the 4.6 model. R-Spec will offer a unique sport design 19-inch
alloy wheel with premium machined finish and optional Michelin Pilot Sport PS2
summer performance tires. The R-Spec steering calibration has been matched to
this unique wheel and tire combination for optimized performance and driving
refinement expectations in this segment. To complete the performance package,
front brake rotors have increased from 13.0 inches to 13.6 inches over the 2011
4.6 model.
In addition to the more aggressive styling cues for all 2012
Genesis models, R-Spec will offer unique headlights with dark chrome inserts for
a more distinctive front appearance. An R-Spec trim designation badge has been
added to the rear deck, and black R-Spec embroidered floor mats daily remind the
driver of the performance that awaits behind the wheel. Genesis R-Spec only will
be offered in three sport-oriented exterior colors: Black Noir, Titanium Gray,
and Platinum Metallic, each with Black leather interior and an all-black leather
steering wheel for a differentiated sport appearance from the 4.6 model.
Tau V8 Engine
The heart of the Genesis 5.0 R-Spec model is a new
Tau V8 engine producing 429 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 376 lb-ft of torque at
5,000 rpm. This new Tau V8 represents the most powerful Hyundai engine ever,
with a higher specific output (85.8 hp/liter) than its normally-aspirated
premium luxury competitors. For 2011, the Tau V8 engine family has again been
named to the prestigious Ward's Ten Best Engines for the third consecutive time.
The 5.0-liter cylinder bore was increased from 92 mm to 96 mm over the
4.6-liter bore for a total displacement of 5.0 liters (5,038cc). In addition to
the enlarged displacement, direct injection technology has been added. This
high-pressure direct injection system (over 2200 psi), dramatically increases
power and torque while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Compression
ratio has been increased from 10.4 to 11.5:1 for greater thermal efficiency and
output. The Tau also receives a revised bed plate for improved block rigidity
and lower NVH as well as camshaft carriers and a roller timing chain to improve
valvetrain stability.
Even more, this new V8 still offers all of the
premium engine technology from the 4.6-liter V8, including Dual Continuously
Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT), a tuned variable induction system, and
low-friction diamond-like coatings (DLC) on piston skirts, rings and tappets.
Even with these impressive power increases, fuel economy is estimated at 16 mpg
city and 25 mpg highway, nearly matching the 4.6-liter V8 (17 mpg city/26 mpg
highway). As an additional point of interest, this same 5.0-liter Tau V8 with
eight-speed transmission will replace the current 4.6-liter V8 as the standard
powertrain in the 2012 Hyundai Equus premium luxury sedan, on sale this summer.
Hyundai Genesis 5.0 R-Spec: Review (2/2)
