MerLexus 5 Sedan

I've seen a fair number of Hyundai's new Genesis sedan around lately. If it weren't for the badges I wouldn't know what it was. It looks like a deadringer for a composite of a Mercedes, Lexus, and BMW 5 series. Toss in some BMW 3 series taillights for good measure and there you have it.

Source: Hyundai

The drag coefficient is a claimed 0.27 (slick), though like most other cars these days it's a real porker. The V6 model has a curb weight of 3,748 and the V8 is over the two ton mark at 4,012 lbs.

Still the team behind this car have done a remarkable job. It looks a lot more expensive than it is, has great specifications (available with a 375 hp V8, six speed automatic transmission, 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds, and 25 mpg highway), and is surely going to give established players a healthy dose of competition.

Not surprising then that it took North American Car of the Year honors. This could be as much of a game changer as the original Lexus LS400 was in 1990.