The first-generation Hyundai Genesis (BH platform) debuted at the North American International Auto Show in January 2008. Representing a $600 million engineering investment, the BH sedan established Hyundai's rear-wheel-drive luxury segment presence. It featured a near-ideal 53:47 front-to-rear weight distribution and five-link independent suspension at both axles.

Engine options featured 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter Lambda V6 engines alongside the award-winning 4.6-liter Tau V8 engine (385 hp). A high-performance 5.0-liter Tau GDI V8 producing 429 hp was introduced in the 5.0 R-Spec model. Transmissions upgraded during the 2011 facelift from six-speed units to Hyundai's proprietary eight-speed automatic.