HYUNDAI Motor has announced that global sales of the All-New Genesis have now exceeded the 100,000 unit figure, just over a year after the brand's second generation premium sedan was launched across the Middle East and Africa. The All-New Genesis, which had its global launch in November 2013, has reached this landmark an impressive 10 months sooner than its predecessor, testament to the worldwide appeal of this high-quality, luxury model. Built solely in Korea, the car is exported to the Middle East and Africa, Chinese, European, and North American markets, and had recorded total sales of 105,915 units by the end of May 2015. In North America it has been so well received that, so far in 2015, the model is placed third in the US midsize luxury sedan market. Jin (James) Kim, Vice President and head of operations at Hyundai Motor Company in Africa and Middle East, said: “In line with Hyundai's modern premium brand direction the All-New Genesis is competing head-on with top-tier premium models, and these results demonstrate that it is winning the confidence of new car buyers across the world. Nowhere is this more so than in the Middle East and Africa region, with its highly discerning customers who are looking for luxury at affordable price points, while enjoying all the features and technologies found in high priced vehicles.” Designed to set new standards in its class, the All-New Genesis is the first Hyundai to feature the brand's Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design concept, while also boasting significantly enhanced driving performance and state-of-the-art technologies such as a Head-Up Display, Smart Trunk function and Autonomous Emergency Braking. The second generation of the popular sedan has accelerated the success of the Genesis name, collecting a number of notable awards, including being named 2014 Best HiTech Luxury Sedan by prestigious Middle East motoring title, Automobile. Elsewhere, in the same year it also won the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ in North America, the iF Product Design Award under the transportation category, and was honored in the 2014 Good Design Awards for its innovative and cutting-edge product design. The first generation model, introduced in 2008, went on to sell 250,000 units globally and played an important role in the rapid evolution of the Hyundai brand. Designed to compete directly with premium European rivals, it introduced the brand to a new type of customer in domestic and foreign markets. — SG
