We had our first motor show look at the facelifted 2012 Hyundai Genesis sedan earlier this winter in Chicago, but now, as it reaches dealers across the country, the South Korean automaker is ready to talk about pricing. In the U.S., buyers can choose from three models, the entry-level 3.8 V6 starting at $34,200, the 4.6 V8 priced at $44,500 and the all-new 5.0 R-Spec with a starting price at $46,500. None of the above prices include an $850 freight charge.

The styling updates for the 2012 Genesis include restyled headlamps with new LED accents and daytime running lights, revised front grille, redesigned bumpers and tail lamps, refined rocker panels plus new exhaust tips, alloy wheels and optional puddle lamps for the exterior mirrors.

Under the sheetmetal, the entry-level 3.8-liter V6 engine receives direct injection (GDI) technology, boosting its output 15 percent from 290 to 333 horsepower, while peak torque is also lifted from 264 lb.-ft. to 291 lb.-ft. Despite the increase in power, fuel economy increases more than seven percent from 27 mpg to 29 mpg on the highway. This is also due to the new in-house developed eight-speed transmission, which replaces the previous six-speed unit.

The 4.6-liter V8 with 385-horsepower is also equipped with the 8-speed automatic transmission and returns17 mpg in city driving and 26 mpg on the highway. Both the 3.8 V6 and 4.6 V8 Genesis models receive some minor chassis tweaks with suspension damping calibrations and a larger rear stabilizer bar.

The newest addition to the Genesis range is the flagship 5.0 R-Spec, which is motivated by freshly developed 5.0-liter V8 Tau engine linked to a sportier-tuned version of Hyundai’s 8-speed auto. The V8 churns out 429 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 376 lb. ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm, and returns an estimated fuel consumption of 16 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.

The R-Spec model is also distinguished by unique 19-inch machined-finish alloy wheels with optional Bridgestone Potenza S-04 Pole Position summer performance tires, and according to Hyundai, a sport-tuned suspension and steering calibrations.

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