Hyundai makes a number of minor updates to its two-year-old Genesis luxury sedan for 2010, primarily in optional equipment. Smart Cruise Control and an electronic parking brake with automatic vehicle hold now come included in the optional Technology Package, available in both the Genesis 3.6 and Genesis 4.8 trims. Smart Cruise Control manages the throttle and braking systems to keep the vehicle at a pre-set distance behind vehicles ahead, while the electronic parking brake automatically engages and disengages when the driver stops or starts the vehicle. Hyundai also adds a DVD-based, voice-activated navigation system with a 7-inch touchscreen as a standard feature on the 4.6 trim, and makes ultra-premium leather seating surfaces standard on the 3.8 trim when it's equipped with the optional Premium, Premium Navigation, or Technology Packages.

Two different engines power the Genesis 3.8 and 4.6 trims for 2010. The Genesis 3.8 comes equipped with a Lambda 3.8-liter, DOHC V6 engine, which produces 290 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. The engine links to a six-speed Aisin automatic transmission with the Shiftronic manual-shift feature. Thanks to dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT), which helps improve efficiency and performance, the V6 posts fuel economy numbers of 18/27 mpg.

The Genesis 4.6 holds the distinction as the only vehicle in Hyundai's lineup powered by a V8 engine. The 4.6-liter Tau V8 generates 375 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. It also features dual CVVT and mates to a six-speed ZF automatic transmission with Shiftronic. The EPA estimates fuel economy numbers for the V8 at a fairly respectable 17/25 mpg.

Upon its introduction in 2009, the Genesis became Hyundai's first rear-wheel-drive vehicle, enabling it to compete against other performance-oriented, rear-wheel-drive luxury sedans, such as the BMW 5 Series, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the Lexus LS, and the Infiniti G37. The Genesis rides on a multi-link suspension in the front and rear. Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering comes standard on the Genesis 3.8, while the 4.6 trim adds electro-hydraulic power steering. Both provide good handling, though some reviewers find the steering inputs and suspension a bit soft at higher speeds. Still, the Genesis performs well for most types of daily driving.

Outside, the Genesis displays a sculpted exterior that draws elements from a number of its competitors, resulting in a somewhat generic design, according to reviewers. However, most owners find the Genesis's clean lines and contemporary look appealing. Standard exterior features for both trims include halogen headlights, front foglights, power heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and dual chrome exhaust pipes. The 4.6 trim adds electrochromic auto-dimming side mirrors and chrome bodyside mirrors.

The Genesis's quiet, roomy cabin rivals that of many of its more-established competitors, thanks to its numerous upscale, luxury-oriented features. Leather upholstery with heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a leather-wrapped dashboard, wood-grain accents, power-adjustable front seats, and an electroluminescent instrument cluster are just some of the standard features on both trims. Dual-zone automatic climate control with a smog-sensing air-quality system keeps passengers comfortable, while an AM/FM audio system with a CD player, XM satellite radio, an MP3 input jack, and a USB input jack provides entertainment. Bluetooth and cruise control also come standard.

The 4.6 trim adds such standard features as ultra-premium leather seating surfaces, a power tilt/telescopic steering column, a wood-trimmed leather-wrapped steering wheel, a power rear sunshade, and a touchscreen navigation system with NavTraffic. The audio system also upgrades to a Lexicon 14-speaker, 528-watt surround-sound system with a 12-channel digital amplifier. Other standard features include a power tilt-and-slide glass sunroof and a rear backup camera.

The 2010 Genesis comes well-equipped with a wide range of standard safety features, including eight airbags, electronic active head restraints, electronic stability control, traction control, and antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution. The Genesis 3.6 trim rides on 17-inch, 14-spoke alloy wheels, while the 4.6 trim sports 18-inch, 14-spoke Hyper Silver alloy wheels.