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2016 Hyundai Genesis: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Hyundai Genesis is that automatic HID headlights and LED daytime running lights became standard across the lineup. Otherwise, this is a modest update to the 2015 redesign, with added standard equipment on both trims but no major mechanical changes.
About the 2016 Hyundai Genesis
2nd generation (DH), second model year and final year sold as the Hyundai Genesis; the same basic generation became the Genesis G80 for 2017.
Hyundai positioned the Genesis as a spacious, quiet luxury sedan with rear-drive proportions, strong V6 or V8 power, and substantial standard comfort and technology. Its identity centered on a roomy, carefully finished cabin, composed road manners, straightforward controls, and premium features without relying on a traditional luxury badge. The 3.8 served as the broadly useful version, while the 5.0 emphasized effortless V8 performance and a much fuller set of safety, comfort, and audio hardware.
The 3.8 serves as the core luxury sedan, pairing a 311-hp V6 with leather seating, an 8-inch navigation touchscreen, and a hands-free trunk. The 5.0 is the fully equipped performance version, with a 420-hp V8, advanced driver aids, a head-up display, a 9.2-inch navigation screen, and 17-speaker audio.
What changed, by category
Styling
Automatic HID headlights and LED daytime running lights became standard on every 2016 Genesis.
Tech
The rearview camera became standard on the 3.8. The 5.0 gained a standard head-up display and was consolidated into one fully equipped configuration with the 9.2-inch navigation screen, 17-speaker audio system, and other former top-package equipment.
2016 Hyundai Genesis specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.0 Liter | V6, 3.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd Shiftronic | Auto, 8-Spd Shiftronic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Horsepower | 420 hp | 311 hp |
| Torque | 383 lb-ft | 293 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.3 cu-ft | 15.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Head-Up Display | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Rear Window Shades | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Hyundai Genesis?
The biggest change is standard automatic HID headlights and LED daytime running lights on every 2016 Genesis. The rest of the car largely carries over from the 2015 redesign.
Did the 2016 Hyundai Genesis get a new engine or transmission?
No. The 2016 Genesis retains the 3.8-liter V6, 5.0-liter V8, and eight-speed automatic transmission from 2015.
What became standard on the 2016 Genesis 3.8?
The 2016 Genesis 3.8 gained standard automatic HID headlights, LED daytime running lights, and a rearview camera. Its 311-hp V6 and eight-speed automatic carried over.
How did the 2016 Genesis 5.0 change from 2015?
The 2016 Genesis 5.0 became a single fully equipped V8 configuration. Its standard equipment includes a head-up display, 9.2-inch navigation screen, 17-speaker audio system, advanced driver aids, premium leather seating, and ventilated front seats.
Was 2016 the final year of the Hyundai Genesis sedan?
Yes. The 2016 model was the final version sold as the Hyundai Genesis; the same basic generation continued as the Genesis G80 for 2017.
2016 Hyundai Genesis Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Hyundai Genesis.
4.4
2016 Hyundai Genesis
(202 reviews)
“The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a beautiful sports car that rides like it looks. Takes to the road and handles great you will love the ride .”
“Vehicle is being discontinued so get a new one soon. Very happy with the choice. If you want a flashy car this is not for you. If you want a fast unsuspecting car that is very fun to drive than the Hyundai Genesis Coupe is for you.”