Hyundai Genesis Coupe Review

Hyundai sells two cars under the Genesis name, but they could hardly be more different. The softly sprung Genesis sedan is a luxurious shot across the bow of high-end European and Japanese carmakers. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe, on the other hand, is a serious rear-wheel-drive sport coupe that gives more established performance marques a run for their money.

Available with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a naturally aspirated V6, the Genesis Coupe is a typically impressive Hyundai value, but with a high-performance edge. Sending power to the rear wheels makes for a superior driving experience, and the Genesis Coupe also boasts distinctive styling and ample feature content. These virtues make Hyundai's taut two-door one of our favorite affordable performance cars.

Current Hyundai Genesis Coupe
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is available with either a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 3.8-liter V6. The turbo ("2.0T") makes 210 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque, while the V6 cranks out 306 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque.

For the base 2.0T, Hyundai offers either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic with manual shift control. The R-Spec trim is manual only, while the Premium level is automatic only. The V6 models follow suit: a choice of six-speed manual or five-speed automatic with manual shift control for the Track trim, manual only in the R-Spec, and six-speed automatic only for the Grand Touring.

Hyundai's reputation for generous standard equipment continues with the Genesis Coupe, which offers features like 18-inch wheels, a sunroof, a leather steering wheel, power driver seat, an Infinity audio system, Bluetooth and USB/iPod connectivity and a navigation system on 2.0 models. Moving up to 3.8 trim levels unlocks additional niceties like xenon headlights, heated outside mirrors, leather upholstery, heated front seats and rear parking sensors. The performance-minded R-Spec models add a sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, Brembo brakes and a limited-slip rear differential.

In testing both Hyundai Genesis Coupe Track models, we found about a second's difference in the 0-60-mph sprint, with the 2.0T engine requiring 6.9 seconds to the V6's 5.9 seconds. The 2.0T's lighter weight makes for a slightly more balanced driving experience, but driving dynamics for both levels are a study in classically sporty rear-wheel-drive behavior. Steering response is quick and crisp, balance is excellent and body roll is kept nicely in check. The ride is nonetheless agreeable, and non-Track trims are even more compliant.

Inside, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe has relatively high-quality materials with good fit and finish. The driver seat has ample bolstering and provides a low, cockpit-like driving position. The tilt steering wheel doesn't telescope, however, which can be an issue for shorter drivers, and the backseat is strictly for children. Overall, though, the Genesis Coupe is a great leap forward for the South Korean carmaker, helping define it as a value leader in both luxury and performance cars

Used Hyundai Elantra Models
The Genesis Coupe debuted for 2010 in seven trim levels. For 2011, Hyundai dropped the 2.0T Track trim and added the 3.8 R-Spec (basically a 2.0 R-Spec with the V6 engine).