Difference Between Honda Accord and Hyundai Genesis

Honda Accord vs. Hyundai Genesis

Asian brands are the theme for this vehicle comparison, and we pit the Korean Hyundai Genesis against the Japanese Honda Accord. In the world of automotive engineering, these two neighbors are worlds apart, since Japan’s Honda is well known for producing benchmark vehicles for others to emulate. Let’s find out if the Koreans have learned a thing or two about their neighbors.

We focus on the base models for each brand of car, since the Genesis belongs to the luxury sedan category. With this said, it may already sound like a mismatch, and it actually is, but that is what comparisons are for – to find the weak spot of one, that the other does not have.

We start off with the front-wheel drive Honda Accord LX, which has a 2.4L inline-4 engine, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox. It produces 177 horsepower at 6,500rpm, and is quite a thrifty engine with a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon for city and highway driving. The suggested retail price for this model starts at $21,765.

Meanwhile, the Hyundai Genesis is powered by a 3.8L V6, 24 valve engine, that has a maximum horsepower of 290, attained at just 6200rpm. That amount of power is transferred to the rear wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission, and, considering it is a V6 engine, it is still capable of giving its driver a fuel efficiency rating of 21mpg. The starting price for the Genesis is $33,000.

Engines aside, safety is one of the utmost concerns these days, and buyers will be glad to know that both cars offer standard 4-wheel ABS, on ventilated disc brakes. In terms of curb weight, the Accord LX comes out in a slightly trimmer 3230 lbs., and is supported by 16-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in 215/60 All-Season tires. The Genesis, meanwhile, weighs in at 3748lbs., and wears size 225/55R17 tires and rims.

One must remember though, that all data is for the entry-level models only, for both car manufacturers. Things get a bit more upscale, more competitive and pricier as you go up the different trim levels, although, more than that is available for one of these cars. The Accord offers three different trim levels, namely, the base LX, the upgraded EX, and the top of the line EX-L, which offers premium features, such as leather upholstery and an optional navigation system. The Genesis is available in only two trims, namely, the 3.8L and the 4.6L.

The 4.6L is equipped with a standard 4.6-liter V8 engine that achieves a whopping 375-horsepower, delivered through a 6-speed automatic transmission gearbox with overdrive. Both trims are stuffed with high-end features, such as dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a seven-speaker sound system with satellite radio and iPod compatibility.

Besides the generous amenities, one will be surprised by this car’s impeccable build quality, and at bargain price for a car that belongs to the discerning luxury department, it is a steal.

It may be a luxury family sedan, but one thing missing from the Hyundai Genesis, is the level of prestige that other brands, such as an Infiniti or Lexus , exude. It does score points for being priced by thousands less compared to its respected rivals, and comparing it now against the mainstream Honda Accord, the only thing you lose with this car, is your ego.

Sharing is caring!