The 2009 hyundai genesis is one of the most anticipated Four Seasons cars to arrive at the Automobile Magazine offices in recent memory.

Yes, you read that right. After driving the Genesis on Hyundai’s test track in Korea, and being thoroughly impressed, we decided we needed to spend a year with Hyundai’s first foray into the luxury-car arena to see how it measured up against more seasoned rivals from Europe, Japan, and America.

Regarding safety, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe includes standard front, side, and curtain airbags. Whiplash-reducing active head restraints are also standard on the front seats. As would be expected, anti-lock brakes come standard and an excellent Brembo brake package is a performance add-on.

Electronic stability control with integrated traction control rounds out the major safety features. At the time we filed this report, the Genesis Coupe hadn’t completed IIHS or government crash tests, but Hyundai representatives told us they expect five-star front and four-star rear crash ratings.

The standard audio system for every 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe includes both iPod jacks, a USB input, and Bluetooth connectivity. A 300-watt Infinity audio system is available, as are heated seats. Additional model packages (Premium, Grand Touring, Track, and R-Spec) group features as their names imply.

The R-Spec is particularly interesting, as it provides genuine track-readiness in an affordable package that is ready for enthusiasts to modify.