Previewed by the HCD-14 concept that bowed in Detroit earlier this year, the Genesis inaugurates a brand new design language called Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. Up front, it wears an elegant front end consisting of trapezoidal bi-Xenon headlights with soft angles, discreet chrome trim on the bumper and a six-slat floating grille loosely inspired by Peugeot’s recent design. Out back, the Genesis gains sharp LED tail lamps, a sculpted trunk lid and two chromed exhaust tips.

The Genesis gains a conservative interior that falls in line with competing cars from Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus. The latest generation of Hyundai’s touch screen-based infotainment system comes standard on most trim levels, but Hyundai has not developed the HCD-14’s futuristic hand-gesture-controlled software into a production unit.

Hyundai put a big emphasis on technology, and the Genesis can be ordered with a host of computer-controlled safety features including Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection with a heads-up display, Lane Departure Warning System and Hyundai’s Advanced Smart Cruise Control. Additionally, the driver can select between four self-explanatory driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow.

Globally, Hyundai will offer the Genesis with four engines ranging from a 3.0-liter V8 rated at 257 horsepower and 224 lb-ft. of torque to a 5.0-liter V8 that generates 425 ponies and 383 lb-ft. of torque. All engines send power to the rear wheels, but Hyundai’s new two-mode HTRAC all-wheel drive system is available as an option.

Following its debut in Detroit next January, the 2015 Hyundai Genesis will go on sale in the United States, in the Middle East and in China before the end of the year. Hyundai has big goals for its flagship sedan, and it will introduce the nameplate in Europe and in Russia for the first time ever.

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