Luxury cars deliver in terms of service, style, and exclusivity, but they are called luxury for a reason. Their price tag can often eliminate the majority of interested buyers from the beginning. This makes the process of buying a used luxury car appealing, and brings about the question of if buying a used luxury vehicle is better than a completely new model.

In November of 2020, U.S. News released a list of the best used luxury cars to purchase for under $20,000. Buying a used luxury car provides performance-oriented engines, elite designs, and superior interiors for a fraction of the cost the new vehicle would cost. This is because luxury cars depreciate in value incredibly quickly once they have been used. Being completely new is a large part of their appeal. Of the cars on this list, the 2009 Hyundai Genesis makes a noteworthy and deserving appearance.

Is buying a used Hyundai Genesis a good idea?

The 2009 Hyundai Genesis was given a 9.6/10 on this list, and shows an average price of $5,810 — $6,127. In 2009, when this vehicle was released it was Hyundai’s most expensive and posh option.

It easily competes with most expensive rivals, and is rated as the best 2009 luxury midsize car. Unsurprisingly, it is spacious, including extra cargo room in the trunk, with the comforts expected from a luxury car. These include automatic climate control, an impressive seven-speaker stereo system, heated front seats, and a power driver’s seat.

The 2009 Hyundai Genesis provides an incredible ride

It also delivers an extremely quiet ride. Car and Driver wrote more extensively on the effort this vehicle took in providing a quiet cabin. More than 275 feet of adhesive is applied to the body shell during production in order to dampen vibrations created on the road. These anti-vibration panels extend to the roof and floor of the vehicle as well.

Insulation is added whenever there is room, and the windshield and doors use double-paned glass. Two engines are available for this Genesis, the standard 3.8-liter V6, and the 4.6-liter V8. The engines provide either 290 or 375 horsepower.

Car and Driver also mentions the suspension of the 2009 Hyundai Genesis being the best available. Its setup allows for an altogether improved steering feel. All of this is available for a fraction significantly lower than other luxury brands. 

2021 Genesis G80 

So what’s new for the newer Genesis cars? In 2015 Genesis branched off from Hyundai and became its own brand. Genesis has continued to impress over the years and the new 2021 G80 is no different.

It offers two engine choices, a 2.5-liter or 3.5-liter depending on the power you’re after, and is also equipped with fun and safe technology. The controlled suspension makes it fun to drive, and the equipped camera makes things easier.

Speaking of, it also includes a blind-spot collision avoidance feature that reduces the chance of accidents. As it is a luxury sedan, the interior is also impressive.

With all of that being said, this luxury design might have not been quite ready. In fact, MotorTrend points out how while its aesthetics are great, it’s not as refined as it could be and its performance on the road doesn’t hold to the same standards as other luxury brands. It’s a bit stiff and lacks body control. However, its price tag is certainly appealing and no one can claim it doesn’t have serious potential.