2009 Hyundai Genesis Earns Five-Star NHTSA Crash Test Scores

We’ve had nothing but praise for the 2009 Hyundai Genesis since we test-drove it; it’s a car that easily keeps up with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series, but at a discount price. Now, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has also given it a seal of approval, awarding this stately beast five-star crash-test ratings all around.

The Genesis received five stars in both frontal and side-impact crash tests — something the BMW and Mercedes could not achieve.

“These five-star results are just one indication of the dedication Hyundai engineers place on safety,” said John Krafcik, vice president of Strategic Planning and Product Development at Hyundai Motor America.

Krafcik is referring to the Genesis’ standard rigid body structure, eight airbags and active head restraints. Included in the eight-airbag count are rear side-impact airbags, which are rare for a mid-$30K vehicle.

While our preferred testing agency is the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, NHTSA’s five-star ratings are another helpful selling point to a car that’s already got a lot going for it.

Comments

This is really no big news. It's bigger news now if a car gets less than five stars. The NHTSA can't update its tests soon enough. But I'm sure Hyundai has done its homework and the Genesis should also get a Top Pick designation in the IIHS's much tougher tests.

It's big new for Hyundai, a brand inching its way into the tier 2 luxury realm. And if a 5 Series or E Class can't even match it, I guess the IIHS should update their test so Mercedes and BMW get even lower scores than Hyundai.

This truly is big news for Hyundai for they are making a name for themselves and proving that not only can they compete with Camry and Accord, but now with the big guns at BMW and Mercedes. Car buyers want safety, and Hyundai is offering it.

It's not something that Acura and Lexus (even Honda and Toyota) haven't been offering for years. In what ways is this "big news"? Acura and Lexus have offered safety and reliability plus luxury for years. Honda and Toyota have reputations for safety, so just because BMW and MB haven't been safety superstars doesn't mean the Genesis broke new ground. I'd buy an ES or TL over the Genesis anyday.

Sounds like sour grapes for non Hyundai fans! Face it folks, Hyundai has done its homework and will soon beat Lexus at its own game.

In the interest of full disclosure, I note that I am a Hyundai owner. And I still don't think this is a big deal. Hyundai has advertised in Korea that they expect the Genesis will be an IIHS Top Pick. That's a loftier goal and will be a bigger selling point for the Genesis, assuming it happens. And I fully expect it will.

Hyundai has moved up the ladder of quality and reliability over the past few years. I would have no problem putting one in my driveway now. I do however think they are still trying to remove memories of the Scoupe from a lot of people's minds. That car really gave Hyundai a cheapish, low quality stigma.

I've toured the factory in Montgomery, Alabama and walked away impressed. What struck me the most was how happy the employees were. I beleive a happy employee produces a better product.

Hyundai has found the right ingredients to make fine automobiles. My hat's off to them.