The crossover trend continues with Hyundai’s new Genus concept vehicle. Officially unveiled at the 2006 Geneva Auto Show, the Genus gave a glimpse of future European demand in the D-segment market since the Genus was born at the Hyundai European Design Center in Rüsselsheim near Frankfurt, Germany. The Genus concept vehicle featured a combination of the sporting dynamism of a coupe with the versatility of a traditional wagon.

Thomas Bürkle, Chief Designer at Hyundai’s European Design Center described the Genus as a “…dynamic five-door concept [that] blends roominess and comfort with elegance and practicality. The Genus challenges the traditional compromise of vehicle choice faced by demanding modern lifestyles. It offers space and comfort, similar to a traditional wagon, but has an elegant, dynamic exterior. The Genus thus provides the answer to emotional desires and practical necessity.”

The Rüsselsheim group designed the Genus as a multi-use concept. Its fundamental proportions remain akin to that of a coupe but the long wheelbase, reduced front and rear overhangs and a wide stance provide for increased interior comfort and loading capacity. As a multi-use concept vehicle, the Genus can be used as a family car for tours, holidays or the everyday commute to work as well as for many other activities.

The exterior design of the Genus was inspired by the free-flowing form of the wave. It is actually reminiscent of the Kia Cee’d concept also unveiled earlier this year. Sleek and sculpted, the body of the Genus starts with a hexagonal mouth that takes up the entire front area. Swept back headlamps that are similar to bird’s eyes are echoed in the rear lamps. Overall, the design of the Genus is stunningly attractive and modern.

Inside, the free-flowing theme continues, this time inspired by sand dunes. An elegantly contoured instrument panel is the centerpiece of the Genus’ interior space. Designers envisioned the Genus’ interior space as a versatile living space or cocooning environment where passengers will feel safe, comfortable and protected. Natural aubergine leather and contemporary silk-like reflective textile drape surround the vehicle’s occupants.

The medium-sized Genus wagon draws its power from a 2.2 liter Common-rail Diesel engine (CRDi). It is equipped with a 5-gear automatic transmission that provides a dynamic but comfortable and economic ride. The Genus also comes with 4WD, further underscoring the sporty aspects of this crossover. The Genus is yet another exciting concept that will be highly anticipated if ever it does reach production status.