Hyundai Hyundai Genesis

Importing a used Hyundai Genesis from the USA

The Hyundai Genesis sedan is one of the more interesting cars to import from the American used market. It was Hyundai's first serious attempt at a rear-wheel-drive luxury saloon, and because it was sold in far larger numbers in the United States than in Europe, the US is where the good, well-kept examples actually are. As an independent import broker, USCar Trader sources these cars directly from American sellers and auctions and handles the full route to German or EU registration. This page explains what the Genesis sedan is, which versions to look for, and what an import realistically involves. If you have been searching how to import a used Hyundai Genesis from the USA, the details below should give you a clear picture before you commit.

Production years and key changes

Two distinct generations wear the Hyundai Genesis sedan name. The first, internal code BH, launched for the 2009 model year and ran through 2014. It marked Hyundai's move upmarket: a proper longitudinal RWD platform, a hushed cabin and V6 or V8 power. A facelift around 2012 brought direct injection and an eight-speed automatic. The second generation, code DH, arrived for 2015. It introduced Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 styling, a much stiffer body, optional all-wheel drive and a far more modern interior. For 2017 Hyundai spun the model off entirely, and the DH became the Genesis G80 under the new standalone brand. That makes the 2015–2016 DH cars the last true "Hyundai" Genesis sedans, which many buyers find appealing.

What is under the hood

The volume engine across both generations is the 3.8-litre Lambda V6. Early port-injected BH cars made around 290 hp; the later GDI version climbed above 330 hp. The flagship was the 4.6-litre Tau V8 (roughly 375–385 hp), and from 2012 the 5.0-litre Tau V8 in the R-Spec produced about 429 hp. The DH generation offered the 3.8 V6 (around 311 hp) and the 5.0 V8 (about 420 hp). Early BH cars used a six-speed Aisin automatic; later BH and all DH cars use a smooth in-house eight-speed automatic. The BH is rear-drive only, while the DH added Hyundai's HTRAC all-wheel drive as an option, a genuine advantage for German winters.

Trims and body styles

The Genesis was sold only as a four-door sedan; the Genesis Coupe is a separate car on a different platform. US trims were defined mainly by engine and equipment tier rather than named packages: 3.8, 4.6, 5.0 R-Spec on the BH, and 3.8 and 5.0 Ultimate on the DH. Popular options included adaptive cruise, a Lexicon premium sound system, panoramic roof, ventilated seats and a head-up display on later cars. Because American luxury buyers loaded these cars heavily, well-specified used examples are common.

What the US market offers

Supply in the United States is healthy. BH cars from 2009–2014 turn up regularly with mileage anywhere from moderate to high, often as second-owner cars from warmer states where the bodies stay clean. The 2015–2016 DH cars are rarer and command more attention, especially AWD examples. Because the Genesis was never a status badge in America, depreciation was steep, which means the used market rewards patient buyers who wait for a documented, well-maintained car. Look for full service history and, ideally, a single long-term owner rather than a car that has changed hands quickly.

Who this import is for

The Genesis sedan suits a buyer who wants a large, quiet, rear-drive luxury car with a V6 or V8 that is genuinely uncommon on European roads. It is not a badge-chaser's car; it is for someone who values engineering substance, a comfortable long-distance cruiser and something distinctive. If you specifically want the V8 soundtrack and effortless torque that European makers now reserve for very expensive models, importing a used Hyundai Genesis from the USA is a rational and rewarding route.

Technical data and figures

Reliability: trouble spots to check

The Genesis has a solid reliability reputation, but a used import still deserves scrutiny. The Tau V8 is durable; the timing chain is generally trouble-free when oil changes were kept up, so demand records. On higher-mileage cars watch for suspension bushings and control-arm wear, which shows as clunks over bumps. Early infotainment and navigation units feel dated and occasional software glitches occur. Check the panoramic roof drains, as blocked drains can cause damp footwells. Brake wear can be heavy on the V8 cars given their weight. None of these are unusual for a large luxury sedan, but a car that skipped maintenance will cost more than a cheap purchase saves. Search any specific VIN for open US recalls before buying.

US vs. Europe differences

US-market cars use miles-per-hour instrumentation, US federal lighting (often amber-free rear turn signals in a combined lamp) and typically lack a rear fog lamp, which German registration requires. Some driver-assistance and radio frequencies differ from EU norms but rarely block registration. Because the Genesis had limited or no European type approval in this configuration, a US car will go through individual approval rather than being registered on an existing EU certificate.

How the import works

The process runs in a clear sequence: vehicle selection and inspection; VIN and build-origin check to confirm the customs situation; secure payment through escrow so funds are only released against clean documents; ocean freight from a US port to a North European port such as Bremerhaven; customs clearance on arrival; TÜV inspection and individual approval (Einzelabnahme); and finally German registration. USCar Trader coordinates each stage as your broker.

Import duty, VAT and fees

In short: the 0% duty rate applies only with documented US origin (VIN/plant) – German import VAT of 19% is always due.

Customs treatment depends on where the car was actually built, which the VIN confirms. The Genesis sedan was assembled in South Korea, so it does not qualify as US-origin goods; the standard EU passenger-car import duty applies to Korean-built cars. The reduced 0% rate under EU Regulations 2026/1455 and 2026/1461 applies only to vehicles with provable US origin, imported by direct transport in the qualifying window — it is not automatic and cannot be promised for a Korean-built car. Separately and in every case, the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) is charged on the customs value. We quote duty and import VAT transparently and add no hidden margin.

From modifications to registration

Typical work for approval includes adding or converting a rear fog lamp, confirming the headlights meet EU requirements (often achievable via coding or lamp replacement), and documenting the odometer in kilometres. The inspector checks brakes, emissions data and identity against the VIN. Once the individual approval certificate is issued, registration at the local authority follows normally.

Pre-buy inspection points

What buyers ask most

Is the Hyundai Genesis the same as the Genesis G80?

The 2015–2016 DH Genesis sedan became the Genesis G80 for 2017 when Genesis launched as a standalone brand. Mechanically they are close relatives; the earlier BH is a separate, older generation.

Which engine should I import?

The 3.8 V6 is the sensible, economical choice; the 5.0 V8 R-Spec is the enthusiast pick for its power and sound. Both are proven.

Does the 0% import duty apply to a Genesis?

No, not by default. The Genesis sedan is built in Korea, so the standard passenger-car duty applies. The 0% rate is only for provable US-origin vehicles.

Will it pass German TÜV?

Yes, with typical adaptations such as a rear fog lamp and lighting checks. We prepare the car for individual approval.

How reliable is a used Genesis?

Generally strong, with durable engines. Maintenance history and suspension condition matter most on higher-mileage cars.

Can I get parts in Germany?

Many components are shared with other Hyundai and Genesis models and are available; some trim and electronics parts may need ordering.

How long does the import take?

Typically several weeks from purchase to registration, driven mainly by ocean freight and scheduling the approval inspection.

Explore the full Hyundai in the Carhub, or compare related sedans such as the Hyundai Sonata, the Hyundai Azera and the newer Genesis G80. You can also browse current Genesis listings.