2012 Hyundai Genesis Prada on Sale - But Not in the U.S.

Just the Facts:

• Hyundai has begun selling 1,200 special-edition Genesis Pradas in Korea, with distribution limited to China and the Middle East.
• A Hyundai U.S. spokesman said a pending trade agreement between the U.S. and Korea had no impact on the decision not to sell the Genesis Prada in the U.S.
• The collaboration with Prada dates to 2009, when a Genesis Prada concept was introduced at the Seoul auto show.

SEOUL, South Korea — The all-new 2012 Hyundai Genesis Prada has gone on sale in South Korea. Only 1,200 special-edition cars will be built, with distribution outside Korea limited to China and the Middle East. There are no plans to market the car in the U.S. or Europe.

Prada, the famed Italian luxury fashion brand, and Hyundai have been working on the model for over two years, since before the 2009 Seoul Auto Show when a Genesis Prada concept was revealed.

Hyundai Motor America spokesman Jim Trainor told Inside Line on Tuesday that while historically similar niche cars have had a market in the U.S., Hyundai does not intend to sell the Genesis Prada here.

Instead, he said, "Hyundai is looking forward to the launch of the improved 2012 Genesis and the all-new 5.0-liter Genesis R-Spec, which will be more than enough energy to keep the lineup fresh" in the U.S.

While Trainor would not reveal specific reasons for the Genesis Prada's exclusion from the U.S. market, he said the pending free-trade agreement between the U.S. and Korea did not play a part in the decision.

The Genesis Prada is powered by a 424-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The luxury sedan is available in three colors (Black Nero, Blue Baltico and Brown Moro) with unique 19-inch alloy wheels and Genesis Prada badging. Dark chrome accents on the grille, emblem and door handles echo the palladium-coated buckles on a Prada purse.

The cabin reflects Prada's influence as well, with seats and instrument panel trimmed in the designer's signature "saffiano" leather.

Inside Line says: The devil isn't the only one who wears Prada. — Darcie Moran, Correspondent