New cars are exciting, but some models have a reputation for being expensive to maintain. Many car warranties offer a few years of free maintenance, but what happens with repairs after it expires? You might be better off buying a used model with established reliability, like the Hyundai Genesis.

According to Consumer Reports, the Genesis holds up better than any other car in the $5,000-to-$10,000 range. After 10 years, owners reported spending an average of only $200 on yearly maintenance and repairs. What else can drivers expect if they purchase a 2011 Hyundai Genesis?

Satisfying performance from the 2011 Hyundai Genesis

The 2011 Hyundai Genesis offered two powertrain options. The standard V6 produced 290 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. Higher trims could have a V8 capable of 385 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque, a first for Hyundai at the time. Both engines pair with a six-speed automatic transmission, but all-wheel drive wasn’t an option on either.

Consumer Reports tested both powertrains but found the V8 was only slightly faster than the standard V6. The 2011 Genesis can reach 60 mph in as little as 6.2 seconds. Its fuel economy — 21 mpg combined city/highway at best — is disappointing compared with rivals.

In addition to good acceleration, the transmission works smoothly, and the Genesis rides on a sport-tuned suspension. Though it doesn’t feel athletic behind the wheel, it can handle corners without problems. CR’s testers also appreciated the well-contained body roll and steady brakes.

As for ride quality, CR says the 2011 Genesis can’t beat other luxury rivals. Though most harsh bumps are muted, quick body motions can take riders by surprise. To its credit, the 2011 model still has a quiet interior even at highway speeds.

A great interior for the price

Higher trims retailed for up to $30,000 and came with the most opulent cabin. CR testers appreciated the optional stitched leather dashboard and generous seating space. Every 2011 Hyundai Genesis comes with Bluetooth, heated seats, and even a push-button start.

The seats up front feel nice, but some CR testers felt there wasn’t enough thigh support. The second row has plenty of room for three adults, and the seats were reportedly much more accommodating. The 2011 Hyundai Genesis is also easier to enter and exit than the latest Genesis models.

CR testers had no problems using the infotainment controls, but they’re positioned high on the dashboard. There’s somewhat of a learning curve involved because many of the buttons look too similar to one another. Testers also had some problems with the optional navigation feature, operated with an external controller.

The 2011 Hyundai Genesis doesn’t have much in the way of advanced driver’s aids, either, but pricier trims have adaptive headlights. The IIHS still awarded it excellent safety scores, and it has a perfect reliability rating on Consumer Reports.

What repairs can you expect for a 2011 Hyundai Genesis?

All the 2011 Hyundai Genesis’s drivetrain components, particularly the suspension, typically hold up well over time. However, some owners reported electronic failures for the power plug and cruise control. The exterior lights are also known to burn out quickly, but a recall addressed most of those incidents.

The 2011 model has had three recalls, with the last one announced in 2014. It’s likely that any 2011 Genesis purchased today has already been serviced. 

CR surveys concluded that 2011 Hyundai Genesis owners are overwhelmingly satisfied with the car’s performance, styling, and interior. It’s also a good value, with the highest trims costing about only $9,700 on the used market.