Hyundai Genesis BH
Hyundai's bold entry into the premium rear-wheel-drive luxury segment.
- Power
- 290 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.3 s
- Top speed
- 130 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$9k
About the Hyundai Genesis BH
The first-generation Hyundai Genesis (BH) was a landmark vehicle for the South Korean manufacturer, designed to challenge established luxury marques like BMW and Lexus. Developed on a bespoke rear-wheel-drive platform, it offered a level of refinement and equipment previously unseen in the brand's lineup. The 3.8-litre Lambda V6 provided smooth, linear power, paired with a comfortable ride that prioritised long-distance cruising over outright sportiness. Its success in North America, where it was named the 2009 Car of the Year, eventually paved the way for Genesis to become a standalone luxury brand in 2015.
Hyundai Genesis BH specs
The Hyundai Genesis BH produces 290 bhp (216 kW) and 358 Nm (264 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).
| Make | Hyundai |
|---|---|
| Model | Genesis |
| Generation | BH |
| Trim | 3.8 |
| Years | 2008–2013 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | South Korea |
| Original price | About $33,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.8-litre V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,778 cc (3.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 290 bhp (216 kW) at 6,200 rpm |
| Torque | 358 Nm (264 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.3 s |
| Top speed | 130 mph (210 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,700 kg (3,748 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 171 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Hyundai Genesis BH worth?
A typical Hyundai Genesis BH is estimated to be worth $3,000 – $9,000 (about £2,200 – £6,700).
Its original price when new was about $33,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Hyundai Genesis BH rarity in CarSpot
The Hyundai Genesis BH is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 9 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Hyundai Genesis BH fun facts
- Hyundai benchmarked the BMW 5 Series (E60) during development, claiming the Genesis body-in-white exceeded the BMW in torsional rigidity by 14%.
- In its home market of South Korea, the car was sold without Hyundai badges, featuring only the unique Genesis wing emblem to distinguish its premium status.
- The development program for the Genesis BH reportedly cost Hyundai over $500 million and spanned 23 months of intensive reliability testing.
