2009 APEAL: Premium Cars

Midsize Premium Car Segment


Highest Ranked: 2009 Hyundai Genesis
The 2009 Hyundai Genesis is the most appealing midsize premium car according to the results of the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 APEAL Study, ranking ahead of the No. 2-ranked 2009 Jaguar XF and the No. 3-ranked 2009 BMW 5 Series, in its first year of inclusion in the study. Last year, the top-ranked midsize premium car was the BMW 5 Series.

The Hyundai Genesis is a luxury sedan, equipped with 6- or 8-cylinder engines powering the rear wheels through an automatic transmission. EPA fuel-economy ratings range from a low of 17 mpg city to a high of 27 mpg highway. Hyundai’s flagship is available in Genesis 3.8 and Genesis 4.6 trim levels, denoted by whether there’s a V-6 or V-8 engine under the hood. The Genesis is available with features such as a power sunroof, power steering column, power rear sunshade, leather-wrapped dash and door panels, Lexicon premium audio, navigation, reversing camera, active cornering headlights, parking sensors, cooled driver’s seat, and other items.

According to the NHTSA, the Genesis receives 5-star crash-test ratings for frontal- and side-impact protection, and receives a 5-star rollover rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety calls the Genesis a “Top Safety Pick.”

In the 2009 APEAL Study, the Genesis performed particularly well in the Exterior, Engine/Transmission and Interior categories. Owners say the Genesis’ top three attributes are rear passenger head, leg and foot room; the stereo gives the impression of depth, or “surround”; and the clarity of the rear-seat entertainment video display.

Learn More About the 2009 Hyundai Genesis
See 2009 Hyundai Genesis Pictures
View 2009 Hyundai Genesis Ratings
View a Photo Gallery of the Most Appealing Luxury Cars and SUVs
Browse Other Hyundai Models


Ranked No. 2: 2009 Jaguar XF
Ranked No. 3: 2009 BMW 5 Series