Full Disclosure: Hyundai wanted me to drive the new Genesis Coupe so badly they flew me out and put me up in a Casino to make sure I wrote about it. Also, they fed me sliders. I'm more of a vegetables kind of guy.

Late last summer I drove a Hyundai Sonata and couldn't have been more horrified with the experience. It didn't so much accelerate as whine about being asked to do so, corners were best avoided and the thing was straight nasty inside in the way we've come to expect cars from Korea to be.

The Genesis Coupe couldn't be any more different.

Down into second and the rear wheels squeal as they lose traction, the rear end getting loose as I turn into the 180-degree right-hander. Floor the throttle before the apex, lift a bit to slow the rotation, counter steer to the left and the Coupe is drifting across the track, making full use of the width added by the pit exit. Straighten things up, into third gear and then floor the throttle. Straight over a crest as the wheels temporarily lose purchase, then keep that throttle pinned through an off-camber sweeper. This isn't a Sonata.

A glance at the spec sheet and you know this is going to be an impressive car. There's two engines: a 3.8-liter V6 with 306 HP and 266 Lb-Ft of torque or a 2.0 turbo with 210 HP and 223 Lb-Ft. The 3.8 will run 0-to-60 MPH in 5.5 seconds and top out at 149 MPH. The 2.0T takes 6.8 seconds to reach 60 and tops out at 137 MPH. It's lighter than an E46 BMW M3 (3,294 Lbs for the 2.0T, 3,389 for the 3.8; the M3 is 3,415 Lbs), yet its chassis is 24% stiffer. Suspension is MacPherson front, five-link rear. Roll bars are 24mm front, 19mm rear. At 2.7 turns lock-to-lock the rack-and-pinion is quick and accurate.

So many other cars have taken similar or better numbers and turned them into a lackluster driving experience. Does the Genesis Coupe make the same mistake? No. This Hyundai is more about experience than it is about numbers.

Pitting it against a similarly equipped (but $2,320 more expensive) Mazda RX-8 (provided by Hyundai) around an autocross course, the Hyundai demonstrated a near total aversion to understeer. In comparison, the RX-8's front washed wide under power around the 1st and 2nd gear 90-degree corners, those same corners had us taking advantage of the Coupe's comparatively prodigious mid-range and considerably greater front-wheel grip to slide the rear around. Back on the racetrack an Infiniti G37S — much more expensive, but nevertheless close in spec, it's also a 5-seat RWD coupe with a 300+ HP V6 — was noticeably harder to read, displayed considerably more body roll and had a tendency to enter into near-uncontrollable slides when it wasn't understeering. It was also much slower.

The best thing about the Genesis Coupe is the chassis. Equipped with the Track pack — larger Brembo brakes, thicker anti-roll bars, 19" wheels, summer tires, stiffer suspension, a limited-slip differential on the 2.0T (standard on the 3.8) — it's a near-ideal budget trackday car that you could also drive everyday on the road. There's no body roll; the brakes are powerful and don't fade; there's plenty of feel through the cheapo steering wheel and there's a wonderful neutrality between under and oversteer. Enter a corner too fast and the front will eventually push - the actual limit being surprisingly high - but crack open or lift off the throttle and the rear will rotate in a completely controllable manner. It's the kind of car that rewards good driving, but would also help relatively novice drivers learn to drive fast in a real sports car safely.

That's not to say the Genesis Coupe is without flaws, they just don't come from the chassis. The 6-speed manual is notchy; a flaw that particularly becomes apparent while shifting down from 3rd to 2nd. Try to rush that shift and you'll encounter something akin to a false gear to the left of 2nd. The 2.0T also leaves us a bit cold. It's actually the engine we were most looking forward to trying - at $22,000 it offers a uniquely appealing rear-wheel-drive performance proposition - but while the actual performance level is reasonable, the power delivery is completely flat (an optimist would call it seamless), which isn't what we've come to expect or like from a turbocharged engine. A greater sense of drama would make it more exciting. On the track, the handling is simply so competent that it overwhelms the engine's performance meaning turning in fast times becomes more about momentum preservation than it does playing with the rear tires.

Other niggles include the interior quality. The cloth seats on the 2.0T and standard leather items on the 3.8 are surprisingly nice and supportive, so we're guessing Hyundai was able to afford them by skimping on the dash and door covers, which look like a Sonata's and the steering wheel, which is some sort of leather that feels just like cheap plastic. Its only the latter that we're really concerned about with such a low starting price. There was room for two helmeted six-footers in the rear seats, but we didn't want to stay there very long.

In contrast to the 2.0T the 3.8 V6 is very exciting to use. On the road there's plenty of low- and mid-range torque, while on the track it becomes more about wringing out every last RPM, peak power arrives at 6,300 RPM. It's not that the engine is lacking power, but more that there's just the right amount, meaning most drivers will be able to wring its neck when they're really trying - something we find incredibly rewarding - but, if they're in the right gear, won't want for any more. That V6 also delivers a raucous noise, combining well with the stiff ride and immediate responses; you'll never forget that you're driving a sports car.

While the 2.0T starts at $22,000, you'll need to spend $4,750 more for the Track model. That brings it above the $25,000 base of the 3.8, the Track version of that goes for $29,500 and there's also a bells-and-whistles Grand Touring for $27,500. The price of those options packages — we'd treat the Track as a necessity for the more discriminating enthusiast drivers — brings the Genesis Coupe dangerously close to more established competitors like the 2010 Ford Mustang GT. The ‘Stang's 4.0 V6 model performs similarly in a straight line to the 2.0T Genesis, yet starts at $20,995. A V8-engined Mustang GT, which accelerates a little faster than the 3.8 Genesis, starts at $27,995, but like the Hyundai the Ford really needs the optional Track pack, bringing the total price to $30,190 (the $1,500 Track pack requires the $695 19" wheels). The thing is, Hyundai is preparing bare bones R-Spec versions of the Coupe that'll feature all of the Track performance upgrades, but none of the interior or exterior add-ons that add money. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec will cost just $23,750 when it goes on sale in the fall. Make sure you check out the rest of the numbers on both version of the Genesis Coupe, and how they compare to key rivals on key stats like fuel economy, in our 2010 Chevy Camaro Numbers Comparison.

If you'd asked us a year ago if we'd ever consider purchasing a Hyundai, we'd have laughed in your face. But now, with the Genesis Coupe, Hyundai makes an honest-to-god sports car and we find ourselves wanting a 3.8 Track. This is an incredibly impressive first effort at a sports car from a company that, before the Genesis Sedan, and now the Coupe made nothing but mind-numbingly boring econoboxes. We can't wait to see what Hyundai does next.

(Hat Tip To Mark!)

The RWD 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is such a sexy ride we decided to remind you in our full gallery below.

Hyundai RELEASES ADDITIONAL ENGINEERING AND FEATURE INFORMATION FOR THE ALL-NEW 2010 Hyundai GENESIS COUPE

Genesis Coupe Delivers an Estimated 30 MPG

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Oct. 30, 2008 – Hyundai released additional engineering and feature information for the all-new 2010 Genesis Coupe today. The Genesis Coupe, and its rear-wheel drive platform-mate the Genesis sedan will make their Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show debuts next week.

“One of the program targets for the Genesis engineering team was world-class weight efficiency,” said John Krafcik, vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “When you look at the size and content of both Genesis models, you’ll find we lead all our competitors in weight efficiency. We also target leadership in power-to-weight ratio. We think that’s just smart strategy in today’s world. It pays huge dividends in both performance and fuel economy, and that’s especially important in the segments in which these cars compete.”
Vehicle Engine Curb Weight (pounds) Length (inches)
Genesis sedan 3.8-liter V6 3748 195.9
Genesis sedan 4.6-liter V8 4012 195.9
Genesis Coupe 2.0-liter turbo 3303 182.3
Genesis Coupe 3.8-liter V6 3402 182.3

Both Genesis Coupe and sedan are rich in ultra-high-strength steel, leading to world-class body rigidity. The Genesis sedan is 10-12 percent stiffer in torsion than Lexus and Mercedes-Benz competitors, yet it is lighter than these benchmark sedans, and offers more interior room. At just 3,303 pounds, the Genesis Coupe 2.0T is hundreds of pounds lighter than all of its IRS-equipped rear-wheel-drive competitors, with body-bending rigidity 24 percent higher than BMW E46 M3.
Vehicle Length Curb Weight (lbs.) Horsepower Power-to-weight ratio
Genesis Coupe 3.8 182.3 3402 310 (est.) 11.0
BMW 335i 181.1 3571 300 11.9
Infiniti G37 183.1 3616 330 11.0
Camaro LS 190.4 3780 300 (est.) 12.6
Challenger 197.7 3819 250 15.3

This focus on weight efficiency pays dividends across the board. The Genesis sedan owes its ability to deliver both strong performance (0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds) and excellent fuel economy (25 mpg EPA highway rating) in great part due to its impressive weight efficiency. Similarly, the Genesis Coupe 2.0T sets a new benchmark for front-engine, rear-wheel-drive gasoline fuel efficiency with a remarkable 30 mpg estimated EPA highway rating, because of its weight-efficient platform and its efficient 2.0-liter, low-pressure, turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

“While some turbochargers sacrifice smooth drivability with high operating boost pressures in the 20 psi range, Genesis Coupe uses a refined, low-boost calibration for smoothness and efficiency,” said Derek Joyce, Genesis Coupe product manager. “We could have opted solely for big performance numbers, but our focus for the 2.0T was a more balanced package.”

Genesis Coupe product highlights

With the start of U.S. market production now just a few months away, Hyundai Motor America is releasing model configuration and color choices for the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

“Genesis sedan has set a new benchmark for the $35,000-$40,000 premium sedan, and we think Genesis Coupe will do the same in the sport coupe segment,” Krafcik said. “From our 30-mpg 2.0T with its low-pressure intercooled 4-cylinder turbo, to the 3.8 Track model with an estimated 310-hp and Brembo braking system, Genesis Coupe offers a wide range of powertrain and performance choices for driving enthusiasts of all stripes.”

There are seven basic Genesis Coupe configurations:

* 2.0T
* 2.0T Premium
* 2.0T Track (6-speed manual transmission only)
* 2.0T R-Spec (late availability, 6-speed manual transmission only)
* 3.8
* 3.8 Grand Touring
* 3.8 Track

Genesis Coupe 2.0T: A more efficient take on the rEAR-Wheel drive sport coupe

Standard equipment includes:

* 2.0-liter, low-pressure, turbocharged, intercooled 4-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering an estimated 210-hp (regular), estimated 220 hp (premium), an estimated 223 ft-lbs of torque (at just 2,000 rpm), an estimated 30 mpg EPA highway rating and an estimated top speed of 137 mph
* M6VR1 6-speed manual transmission (Optional: A5SR1 5-speed electronic automatic transmission with lockup torque converter and steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift Shiftronic controls)
* 18-inch Euroflange alloy wheels with staggered Bridgestone Potenza RE92A tires (P225/45VR18 front, P245/45VR18 rear)
* Electronic Stability Control with ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist
* 12.6-inch ventilated front rotors with 60mm single piston floating caliper
* 12.4-inch solid rear rotors with 43mm single piston floating caliper
* Sport-tuned MacPherson strut dual-link front suspension and five-link rear independent suspension, 24mm front stabilizer bar, 19mm rear stabilizer bar
* Strut brace
* Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System
* Front, side, side air curtain air bags
* Active front head restraints
* Driver’s lumbar support
* Black-out front lower fascia
* Trip computer
* Air conditioning
* Satin silver and chrome interior accents
* Keyless entry system
* Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
* Power windows (one-touch up and down), door locks and mirrors
* AM/FM/XM/CD audio system with six speakers
* USB/iPod/Aux jack connectivity
* Steering wheel audio controls
* Cruise control
* Projector beam headlamps with auto light control
* Integrated Bluetooth including steering wheel controls
* Temporary spare with steel wheel (T135/90D17)

The 2.0T Premium model adds or substitutes:

* Power driver seat
* 360-watt AM/FM/XM/CD-changer Infinity premium audio system with 10 speakers including DVC subwoofer, eight-channel external amplifier, and diversity antenna
* Smart Key with push-button start
* Electrochromic mirror with HomeLink and compass
* Sunroof
* Navigation system (mid-year availability)

The factory-tuned 2.0T Track model builds from the 2.0T Premium, adding/substituting:

* 19-inch Euroflange gunmetal finish alloy wheels with staggered high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (P225/40YR19 front, P245/40YR19 rear)
* Unique Brembo braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
* Unique track-tuned suspension, higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, strut brace
* Torsen-type limited-slip differential
* Black leather bolster seats with high-friction red cloth insert
* Aluminum pedals
* Aero windshield wipers
* Rear spoiler
* Xenon HID headlamps
* Fog lamps
* Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)
* Navigation system (mid-year availability)
* Note: Automatic transmission not available with 2.0T Track

Later in the model year, a tuner-focused performance model, R-Spec, will arrive at Hyundai dealerships. Genesis Coupe R-Spec is meant to be the ultimate upgradeable, affordable, turbocharged rear-wheel drive performance platform. R-Spec equipment includes:

* 2.0-liter low-pressure turbocharged intercooled four-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering an estimated 210-hp (regular), estimated 220-hp (premium), an estimated 30 mpg EPA highway rating and an estimated top speed of 137 mph
* 6-speed manual transmission
* Electronic Stability Control with ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist
* 19-inch Euroflange gunmetal finish alloy wheels with staggered high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (P225/40YR19 front, P245/40YR19 rear)
* Brembo braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
* Track model suspension tuning (higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, strut brace)
* Torsen-type limited-slip differential
* Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System
* Front, side, side air curtain air bags
* Active front head restraints
* Driver’s lumbar support
* Air conditioning
* Keyless entry system
* Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
* Power windows (one-touch up and down), door locks and mirrors
* AM/FM/XM/CD audio system with six speakers
* USB/iPod/Aux jack connectivity
* Projector beam headlamps
* Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)
* Note: Automatic transmission not available with R-Spec

Genesis 3.8: 310 horsepower and standard leather interior – a new benchmark for performance and refinement in its class

Standard equipment includes 2.0T equipment, and adds or substitutes:

* 3.8L DOHC V6 engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering an estimated 306-hp (regular), 310-hp (premium), and a top speed of 149 mph
* M6VR2 6-speed manual transmission (Optional: ZF 6HP19 6-speed electronic automatic with lockup torque converter and steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift Shiftronic controls)
* Black leather seats
* Fully automatic temperature control
* Premium door sill plates
* Chrome front fascia accents

In addition to 3.8 equipment, the 3.8 Grand Touring adds or substitutes:

* Unique brown leather seat interior environment
* Power driver seat
* Heated driver and passenger seat
* 360-watt AM/FM/XM/CD-changer Infinity premium audio system with 10 speakers including DVC subwoofer, eight-channel external amplifier, and diversity antenna
* Smart Key with push-button start
* Xenon HID headlamps
* Electrochromic mirror with HomeLink and compass
* Heated mirrors with outside turn signal indicators
* Backup warning system
* Sunroof
* Navigation system (mid-year availability)

The factory-tuned 3.8 Track model deletes backup warning system and chrome front fascia accents from the Grand Touring model, and adds or substitutes:

* Black leather seats
* 19-inch Euroflange gunmetal finish alloy wheels with staggered high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (P225/40YR19 front, P245/40YR19 rear)
* Unique Brembo braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
* Unique track-tuned suspension, higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, strut brace
* Torsen-type limited-slip differential
* Aluminum pedals
* Aero windshield wipers
* Rear spoiler
* Black-out front lower fascia
* Xenon HID headlamps
* Fog lamps
* Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)

Genesis Coupe will be available in nine exterior colors:

* Karussell White
* Bathurst Black
* Silverstone
* Nordschleife Gray
* Acqua Minerale Blue
* Tsukuba Red
* Mirabeau Blue
* Lime Rock Green
* Interlagos Yellow

Genesis Coupe features four different interior themes:

* Black environment, premium black cloth seats (2.0T, 2.0T Premium, R-Spec)
* Black environment, black leather-bolstered seats with high-friction red cloth insert (2.0T Track)
* Black environment, black leather seats (3.8, 3.8 Track)
* Black environment, saddle brown leather seats (3.8 Grand Touring)

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of South Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through 800 dealerships nationwide.

[Hyundai]

STREET CONCEPTS TO DEVELOP CUSTOMIZED HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE for SEMA SHOW

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Sept. XX, 2008 – Hyundai Motor America announced that it is partnering with Street Concepts, one of the leading developers of auto show vehicles, to create a modified Genesis Coupe for the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The all-new, rear-wheel drive Street Concepts Genesis Coupe will make its SEMA Show debut at the Las Vegas Convention Center on November 4, 2008. The Street Concepts Genesis Coupe will join vehicles designed by Rhys Millen and HKS as the third Genesis Coupe scheduled to appear at SEMA.

“Its aggressive, powerful design and high performance attributes make the Genesis Coupe a perfect vehicle for SEMA,” said Shawn Williams, owner, Street Concepts. “We plan to maximize the driving capabilities of the Genesis Coupe while striving for a level of practicality so that average consumers can take ideas from our vehicle and adapt it to their own.”

The Street Concepts Genesis Coupe will be outfitted with a black camouflage, stealth fighter-inspired paint design that compliments its sports’ styling. The exterior will also feature a custom grille design, tinted taillights and an APR rear wing.

“From its inception, Genesis Coupe was developed with the tuner buyer in mind. The Street Concepts vehicle accentuates the core DNA of the product, born from enthusiast driver demands,” said Derek Joyce, Genesis Coupe product manager, Hyundai Motor America. “The three Genesis Coupes scheduled to be displayed at the SEMA Show exemplify the tuner-based performance potential of the vehicle.”

The Street Concepts Genesis Coupe will showcase Volk 19-inch racing wheels, performance tires, a modified suspension and Brembo brakes. A Magnaflow cat-back exhaust and cold air intake system will enhance the performance of the 3.8-liter V6 engine.

Interior modifications include carbon fiber dashboard accents, a custom Infinity audio system, Cobra seats and black suede accents designed to fit the stealth jet fighter theme.

HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE HIGHLIGHTS

* Hyundai’s first rear-wheel drive sports car
* 306-horsepower (est.) from enhanced 3.8-liter V6 from Genesis sedan
* Standard 210-horsepower intercooled, turbocharged, in-line 4-cylinder
* Genesis Coupe production model arrives in spring of 2009

STREET CONCEPTS

Street Concepts was formed in June 1998 to build award-winning show vehicles for the corporate world. Street Concepts has built numerous top quality show vehicles for an array of manufacturers including Kenwood USA, Oakley, Toyo Tires, MHT Wheels, Mazda Design and several local radio stations. Street Concepts vehicles have graced the pages of magazines such as Truckin’, Street Trucks, Today’s SUV, Lowrider, Lowrider Euro, Import Tuner, Car Audio, Hot Rod, and Motor Trend.

[Source: Hyundai]

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Sept. 3, 2008 – Hyundai Motor America today announced that HKS USA, Inc. will create a high-performance Genesis Coupe for the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show. The all-new, rear-wheel drive Hyundai model will make its SEMA debut at the Las Vegas Convention Center Nov. 4 – Nov. 7, 2008. HKS, the leading manufacturer of premium performance parts, is the second company to join Hyundai for this year’s SEMA show.

“Genesis Coupe has the basic DNA that HKS looks for – an excellent chassis, rear-wheel drive, aggressive styling and a new generation turbo-charged engine. These attributes provide the opportunity for HKS to maximize the Genesis Coupe driving performance capabilities for the serious driving enthusiast,” said Rick Lafferty, president, HKS USA, Inc. “HKS is allocating R&D, engineering and prototyping resources to lay the groundwork for HKS-brand Genesis Coupe performance parts. We are looking forward to working with Hyundai to realize the full performance potential of the Genesis Coupe.”

The HKS plan for the Genesis Coupe includes a HKS GT Turbo upgrade to maximize horsepower and torque, HKS engine internals, HKS limited-edition turbo exhaust system, HKS Super Mega Flow Intake System, HKS Engine Management and HKS Hipermax III fully-adjustable suspension.

“We’ve designed Genesis Coupe from the start to be tuner-friendly,” said John Krafcik, vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Partnering with an industry leader like HKS is a terrific way for us to stretch the performance envelope of Genesis Coupe.”

The HKS Genesis Coupe will also showcase functional ground effects designed by Ken Style, HKS Time-Attack cars’ aerodynamic partner. The interior will emphasize driver comfort and control with HKS electronics including CAMP2 that monitors up to 24 data signals from the Genesis OBD2 and programmable calculations for fuel costs, average fuel consumption and fuel efficiency in real time.

HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE HIGHLIGHTS
• Hyundai’s first rear-wheel drive sports car
• 306 horsepower (est.) from enhanced 3.8-liter V6 from Genesis sedan
• Standard 212 horsepower (est.) turbocharged, intercooled inline four cylinder
• Genesis Coupe arrives in the spring of 2009 as a 2010 model

HKS USA, INC.
HKS USA, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and supplier of premium automotive aftermarket performance systems, parts and accessories. Delivering its products to both the import and domestic car markets, HKS has been recognized for its engineering and performance excellence in the automotive industry since 1973. Established in 1982, HKS USA, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of HKS Company, Ltd. Japan and distributes its products through its worldwide dealer network. For more information about HKS USA., visit their website at www.hksusa.com.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA
Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of South Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through 800 dealerships nationwide

The first thing that catches our eye, besides the missing fuel filler door, is the set of wheels on this car. Unlike the optional 19" rims worn by the show cars, these appear to be the 18" standard units. Maybe we're imagining things, but we think the split 5-spokes look a lot like flowers. Maybe we just need to see it in person. We'll also have to see if there will be any other optional rims, but if these do come as standard equipment, expect a lot of macho guys to throw on some aftermarket shoes — unless they're really into dainty feet. Hat Tip to karamkid! [SoCalEuro]

ALL-NEW HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE: A NEW BENCHMARK FOR AFFORDABLE 300-HORSEPOWER SPORTS COUPES

NEW YORK, March 19, 2008 - Hyundai unveiled Genesis Coupe, a new benchmark for affordable 300-horsepower sports coupes, during a press conference at the New York International Auto Show today. The 2010 Genesis Coupe is a purpose-built rear-wheel drive sports coupe featuring two performance-focused engines - a 212-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a range-topping all-aluminum 306-horsepower, DOHC 3.8-liter V6 engine. Genesis Coupe is scheduled to join the Hyundai lineup in the spring of 2009.
Following the introduction earlier this year of the rear-wheel drive Genesis sports sedan, Genesis Coupe is Hyundai's most dynamic performance car ever and the second consecutive all-new model introduction from Hyundai appealing directly to the car enthusiast. Genesis Coupe uses the same flexible rear-wheel drive architecture that was originally developed for the Genesis sports sedan.
Genesis Coupe employs a MacPherson strut dual-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension setup. Both engines are mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission. The Genesis Coupe 2.0t (2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo) offers an optional five-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC® while the 3.8-liter V6 offers a ZF six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC to handle the additional torque.
"We think our entry-level Genesis Coupe 2.0t, with its unique combination of rear-wheel drive and four-cylinder turbo power, offers an intriguing alternative to existing front-wheel drive sports coupes," said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. "The 3.8-liter version of Genesis Coupe takes things to an even higher level, rivaling the capability of premium-performance coupes like Infiniti G37."
Genesis Coupe was shown as a concept at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show and its transformation from concept to production reveals that its signature design features have emerged intact. Genesis Coupe is also unmistakably linked to several Hyundai concept cars. The powerful curves, surface detail, and "Z" bodyside lines come straight from the HCD9 Talus and the HCD8 sports coupe. Genesis Coupe's arching roofline and tapering greenhouse highlight the exterior profile and emphasize the car's broad shoulders and wide stance. Genesis Coupe rides on standard 18-inch alloy wheels or optional 19-inch wheels, both delivering a bold stance and aggressive handling.
In keeping with its mission to be the most exciting, affordable sports coupe on the road, the Genesis Coupe boasts a cockpit designed to enhance the driving experience. An information display screen, features an outside temperature reading, audio system information and HVAC settings. Analog gauges include a large speedometer and tachometer positioned so the driver can immediately access critical driving information. The instrument cluster features Hyundai's signature blue gauge illumination.
Music lovers will welcome the inclusion of standard auxiliary input jacks (3.5 mm mini-jack and USB input) to accommodate and charge audio devices such as iPods®. Among the other refinements are an Infinity audio system, sport bucket seats and two-stage front seat warmers. Genesis Coupe also offers the convenience of a proximity key and push button starter.
The 2010 Genesis Coupe includes a wide range of both active and passive safety features. Standard safety equipment includes driver and front passenger advanced frontal airbags, along with front seat-mounted side airbags, side air curtains, active front head restraints, four-channel ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), one of the industry's most effective life-saving technologies.

GENESIS COUPE SPECIFICATIONS

• Configuration: Front engine, rear-wheel drive
• Wheelbase: 2820 mm / 111.0 inches
• Overall length: 4630 mm / 182.3 inches
• Overall width: 1865 mm / 73.4 inches
• Overall height: 1380 mm / 54.3 inches
• Wheels: 18-inch or 19-inch five-spoke
• Engine types: 3.8-liter V6 or 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo
• Est. horsepower V6: 306 @ 6,000 rpm (regular fuel)
• Est. horsepower V6: 310 @ 6,000 rpm (premium fuel)
• Est. torque V6: 263 lb. ft. @ 4,700 rpm (regular and premium fuel)
• Est. horsepower 2.0t: 212 @ 6,000 rpm (regular fuel)
• Est. horsepower 2.0t: 223 @ 6,000 rpm (premium fuel)
• Est. torque 2.0t: 217 lb. ft. @ 2,500 rpm (regular and premium fuel)
• Block & head materials: aluminum for both engines
• Valvetrain: DOHC for both engines
• Valve timing: continuously variable valve timing for both engines (Dual for 2.0t)
• Estimated 0-60 mph V6: under 6 seconds
• Transmission types: 6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic (4-cylinder) or 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic (V6)
• Front brakes: 12.6-inch (standard) 13.4-inch (Brembo package)
• Rear brakes: 12.4-inch (standard) 13.0-inch (Brembo package)
• Front calipers: single piston floating (standard), monobloc four-piston (Brembo package)
• Rear calipers: single piston floating (standard) monobloc four-piston (Brembo package)
• Limited slip differential (Optional)
• Est. top speed: 149 mph (V6), 137 mph (2.0t)
• Base curb weight: 3549 lbs. (V6); 3439 lbs. (4-cylinder)

ALL-NEW HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE: A NEW BENCHMARK FOR AFFORDABLE 300-HORSEPOWER SPORTS COUPES

NEW YORK, March 19, 2008 - Hyundai unveiled Genesis Coupe, a new benchmark for affordable 300-horsepower sports coupes, during a press conference at the New York International Auto Show today. The 2010 Genesis Coupe is a purpose-built rear-wheel drive sports coupe featuring two performance-focused engines - a 212-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a range-topping all-aluminum 306-horsepower, DOHC 3.8-liter V6 engine. Genesis Coupe is scheduled to join the Hyundai lineup in the spring of 2009.
Following the introduction earlier this year of the rear-wheel drive Genesis sports sedan, Genesis Coupe is Hyundai's most dynamic performance car ever and the second consecutive all-new model introduction from Hyundai appealing directly to the car enthusiast. Genesis Coupe uses the same flexible rear-wheel drive architecture that was originally developed for the Genesis sports sedan.
Genesis Coupe employs a MacPherson strut dual-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension setup. Both engines are mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission. The Genesis Coupe 2.0t (2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo) offers an optional five-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC® while the 3.8-liter V6 offers a ZF six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC to handle the additional torque.
"We think our entry-level Genesis Coupe 2.0t, with its unique combination of rear-wheel drive and four-cylinder turbo power, offers an intriguing alternative to existing front-wheel drive sports coupes," said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. "The 3.8-liter version of Genesis Coupe takes things to an even higher level, rivaling the capability of premium-performance coupes like Infiniti G37."
Genesis Coupe was shown as a concept at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show and its transformation from concept to production reveals that its signature design features have emerged intact. Genesis Coupe is also unmistakably linked to several Hyundai concept cars. The powerful curves, surface detail, and "Z" bodyside lines come straight from the HCD9 Talus and the HCD8 sports coupe. Genesis Coupe's arching roofline and tapering greenhouse highlight the exterior profile and emphasize the car's broad shoulders and wide stance. Genesis Coupe rides on standard 18-inch alloy wheels or optional 19-inch wheels, both delivering a bold stance and aggressive handling.
In keeping with its mission to be the most exciting, affordable sports coupe on the road, the Genesis Coupe boasts a cockpit designed to enhance the driving experience. An information display screen, features an outside temperature reading, audio system information and HVAC settings. Analog gauges include a large speedometer and tachometer positioned so the driver can immediately access critical driving information. The instrument cluster features Hyundai's signature blue gauge illumination.
Music lovers will welcome the inclusion of standard auxiliary input jacks (3.5 mm mini-jack and USB input) to accommodate and charge audio devices such as iPods®. Among the other refinements are an Infinity audio system, sport bucket seats and two-stage front seat warmers. Genesis Coupe also offers the convenience of a proximity key and push button starter.
The 2010 Genesis Coupe includes a wide range of both active and passive safety features. Standard safety equipment includes driver and front passenger advanced frontal airbags, along with front seat-mounted side airbags, side air curtains, active front head restraints, four-channel ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), one of the industry's most effective life-saving technologies.

GENESIS COUPE SPECIFICATIONS

• Configuration: Front engine, rear-wheel drive
• Wheelbase: 2820 mm / 111.0 inches
• Overall length: 4630 mm / 182.3 inches
• Overall width: 1865 mm / 73.4 inches
• Overall height: 1380 mm / 54.3 inches
• Wheels: 18-inch or 19-inch five-spoke
• Engine types: 3.8-liter V6 or 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo
• Est. horsepower V6: 306 @ 6,000 rpm (regular fuel)
• Est. horsepower V6: 310 @ 6,000 rpm (premium fuel)
• Est. torque V6: 263 lb. ft. @ 4,700 rpm (regular and premium fuel)
• Est. horsepower 2.0t: 212 @ 6,000 rpm (regular fuel)
• Est. horsepower 2.0t: 223 @ 6,000 rpm (premium fuel)
• Est. torque 2.0t: 217 lb. ft. @ 2,500 rpm (regular and premium fuel)
• Block & head materials: aluminum for both engines
• Valvetrain: DOHC for both engines
• Valve timing: continuously variable valve timing for both engines (Dual for 2.0t)
• Estimated 0-60 mph V6: under 6 seconds
• Transmission types: 6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic (4-cylinder) or 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic (V6)
• Front brakes: 12.6-inch (standard) 13.4-inch (Brembo package)
• Rear brakes: 12.4-inch (standard) 13.0-inch (Brembo package)
• Front calipers: single piston floating (standard), monobloc four-piston (Brembo package)
• Rear calipers: single piston floating (standard) monobloc four-piston (Brembo package)
• Limited slip differential (Optional)
• Est. top speed: 149 mph (V6), 137 mph (2.0t)
• Base curb weight: 3549 lbs. (V6); 3439 lbs. (4-cylinder)