The Rhys Millen Racing Hyundai Genesis RMR460 isn't just a hack-job to get the Genesis Sedan engine into the Genesis coupe. The engine gets upgraded internals including JE pistons and eight individual throttle bodies to push out 500 HP, it's got a fully re-engineered suspension, a five-speed sequential transmission form Mendeola, carbon rear hatch and spoiler, 20" wheels and Toyo tires, and a top speed of 182 mph! Since Millen is kinda known as a drift racer, we suspect it'll be no time before we see this thing dancing an automotive ballet around a wicked gymkhana course.

Here's the full press release from Hyundai. We'll be seeing the production R-Spec in person at next month's SEMA show in Vegas. Check out the full Genesis starting price list below to see how well the R-Spec stacks up against the rest of the Genesis Coupe lineup.

Production R-Spec to Debut at the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., oct. 27, 2009 – The Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec, the perfect blank canvas for tuners, priced at $23,750 is beginning to arrive at dealerships across the country. R-Spec takes the core performance equipment from the 2.0T Track model and eliminates non-essential convenience equipment to reduce both cost and weight. The Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec – the first production R-Spec model to arrive in the U.S. – will make its world debut at the Hyundai booth at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in the Las Vegas Convention Center from November 3 – 6 (Booth # 24387).

The R-Spec allows enthusiasts to tune their own car to their desired specifications. R-Spec provides genuine track-readiness and powertrain scalability in an affordable model. The R-Spec adds core Track model performance equipment to the most affordable 2.0T model, such as: Track-tuned suspension, 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with performance Summer tires, Brembo® braking system, Torsen® limited-slip differential and R-Spec badging.

In a special nod to tuners, R-Spec will also receive a set of front strut camber adjustment bolts (dealer installation - optional for customer to install) to further enhance initial turn-in and handling response. To reduce both cost and weight, the R-Spec eliminates some non-essential convenience equipment such as: Bluetooth®, automatic headlights, cruise control, trip computer, chrome interior accents and steering wheel audio controls. Genesis Coupe R-Spec is priced $3,000 less than the 2.0T Track model, leaving tuners with extra cash for their own choice of aftermarket performance upgrades. Appropriately, R-Spec will be available in three exteriors colors most common among international racing teams: Karussell White, Bathurst Black and Tsukuba Red. R-Spec comes with manual transmission only.

R-Spec equipment includes:

· 2.0-liter low-pressure turbocharged intercooled four-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering 210 hp, 30 mpg EPA highway rating and a top speed of 137 mph

· 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission

· Electronic Stability Control with Traction control, ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist

· 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with staggered-width high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (225/40YR19 front, 245/40YR19 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-tuned suspension (higher-rate coil springs, higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear stabilizer bar, front strut brace)

· Torsen-type limited-slip differential

· R-Spec badging

· Tire Pressure Monitoring System

· Front, side, side curtain air bags

· Active front head restraints

· Driver's lumbar support

· Air conditioning

· Remote 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/MP3 audio system with six speakers

· iPod/USB/Aux jack connectivity

· Projector beam headlamps

· Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)

· Note: Automatic transmission not available with R-Spec

As the faint report of the SEMA crazy train whistles in the distance, every tuner in the universe is coming out with their version of the next best thing, GReddy seems to be throwing everything at the Genesis Coupe this year, which was something of an unofficial darling of last years show, right up there with Nissan GT-R and Dodge Challenger. This car tarts things up with a de riguer body kit with a new front fascia and splitter, rear spoiler, side skirts, look-at-me paintjob and loud graphics, intercooler, cat-back exhaust, "racing" downpipe, an adjustable coil-over suspension and six-piston front, four-piston rear brakes.

The car coming to SEMA will have a mere 350 HP and 320 lb-ft of torque, 0-60 MPH is in the sub six second range, but the team at GReddy plan to add more goodies after the show and shoot for a lunatic-fringe 500 HP. Remember, this is a 2.0 liter turbo four pot making Corvette Z06-like horsepower.

The theory is there was an issue with the fuel line that quickly got out of control. All we know is we really hope the owner's insurance covers this. [Kaizo Photo]

[via Edmunds Straight Line]
Thanks for the tip, Eric!

We've scoured the Jalopnik archives for some of our best imagery to provide you with 22 high-resolution wallpapers that will work with both the Apple iPhone and the new Palm Pre. Both devices utilize a 320x480 format, so any of the wallpapers can be swapped between the two if you're a true Gizmodo-like gadget freak. We've even provided you with a handy guide for installing wallpapers on both at the end of the list, just in case you haven't figured out your newfangled touchscreen devices. If you find a wallpaper you like and absolutely must have; install it and take a picture to show us in the comments below.

The image associated with this post is best viewed using a browser.
Sunglasses Guy
'Nuff said.

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Jalopnik: Obsessed With The Cult Of Cars
Because you read the internet for the car articles.

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iPhone-Wallpapers provides a simple step-by-step guide to installing wallpapers on your Apple iPhone, although if you already own one shouldn't you already know how to do this?

1. Right-click or control-click on the image you want to use.
2. Select "Save as…" and save the image to your hard drive.
* Mac users can either save the image to a folder or add it to their iPhoto library.
* PC users will want to save the wallpaper into their "My Pictures" folder.

You can then sync the iPhone with photos in iPhoto 4.0.3 or later on a Mac, or Photoshop Album 2.0 or later or Photoshop Elements 3.0 or later on a PC. Or you can sync with any folder on your computer that contains images. Connect the iPhone to your computer and do the following:

1. Launch iTunes then click the Photos tab and select "Sync photos from:"
2. From the pop-up menu, do one of the following:
o If your using a Mac, choose iPhoto or your Pictures folder.
o If you're using a PC, choose Photoshop Album, Photoshop Elements, or your My Pictures folder.
3. Choose Folder, then choose any folder on your computer that has images.
4. Choose "All photos," or choose "Selected folders" or "Selected albums" and choose the folders or albums you want to sync.

Finally on your iPhone:
1. Goto the Photos section of your camera. Browse through the albums or camera roll until you find the picture you wish to use.
2. Select the picture so it is displayed full screen.
3. Tap the icon in the lower left corner of the screen. If you don't see the icon, single tap the picture to display the menus.
4. Here you can select if you want to email the picture, save the picture as a wallpaper, or assign to a contact.
5. If you want to assign to a contact, press that button. The contact list will open and you can select the contact you wish to link to the picture.
6. Select Done to complete the process.

[via iPhone-Wallpapers]
The image associated with this post is best viewed using a browser.Here's a quick and dirty method to getting wallpapers on your brand-spankin-new Palm Pre thanks to PreThinking.

Adding wallpaper(s) to your Palm Pre:

1. Have your image as the new wallpaper ready on your computer. It must be in 320 x 480pixels. (Check out our wallpapers optimized for the Pre here.)
2. Connect your Palm Pre to the computer using the Micro-USB cable that came with the Pre.
3. Your Pre will ask to Media Sync, USB Drive or Just Charge. Choose USB Drive.Your Pre will now show up as an External Hard Drive on your computer. For Macs, you'll find 'Palm Pre' on your desktop and for windows, it's in 'My Computer'.
4. Click on 'Palm Pre' and you'll find yourself looking at several folders. One of which is labeled 'Wallpapers'.
5. Drag and Drop your preferred wallpaper(s) in the "Wallpapers" folder and you're done!

Changing your Wallpaper on your Palm Pre:

1. Open the 'Photos' App
2. Choose Wallpapers or any other photo album which your new Wallpaper is located at.
3. Scroll down to your new wallpaper and open it
4. Hit the upper left icon for the drop down menu
5. Hit 'Set Wallpaper'
6. It'll ask to Set Wallpaper again, hit it.

[via PreThinking]

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.

Not only did they get 227 lb-ft of torque at the wheels, they got 197 HP when making the dyno runs in fourth gear. If we work backwards using the rule of thumb 15% driveline losses for RWD cars, we see the approximate output the turbo four is 261 lb-ft of torque and 226 HP at the flywheel. Roughly about 7% more horsepower and a whopping 17% more torque than Hyundai states. Either Edmunds got a goosed version or the customers will be happily getting more bang for their buck. [Edmunds Straightline]

Yo-Yo Ma Rules!

(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.

Being the experts on Super Bowl car commercials, we can do things like bring you the ads before they even air as part of our Super Bowl Ad Watch. Below we have the five advertisements Hyundai will show during and before the big game. Three of the ads will run during pre-show, also sponsored by Hyundai, and "Bosses" and "Contract" will run during the second and third quarters. Our perspective on these new advertisements below.

5.) Contract

Title: Contract
Grade: C
Message: Hyundai has your back if you lose your job or income.
Our Take: For people who are freaked out about the economy the message may hit home, but it's just so boring.

4.) Commitment

Title: Commitment
Grade: C+
Message: If you're willing to commit to Hyundai, they're willing to commit to you.
Our Take: The 'commitment isn't scary' approach of this commercial for the Hyundai Assurance program works better than the "Contract" commercial because it implies we're all in the economic mess together. Still, it's rather boring.

3.) Columns

Title: Columns
Grade: B
Message: The Hyundai Genesis won the 2009 North American Car Of The Year, something the automaker is obviously proud of as evidenced by the bragging.
Our Take: The commercial is good and, given Hyundai can afford multiple Super Bowl spots, there's nothing wrong with a little boastfullness. What really sells it, though, is the clip of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

2.) Angry Bosses

Grade: B+
Message: By winning the 2009 North American Car Of The Year award we've put BMW and Lexus on notice.
Our Take: Because everyone may not be cool with the idea of buying Korean while the American economy is hurting, Hyundai is smart enough to take aim at the Germans and the Japanese. The portrayals of the two "axis powers" is a bit over the top, but it makes the ad work.

1.) Epic Lap

Title: Epic Lap
Grade: A-
Message: You want the Genesis Coupe so badly you'll go to EditYourOwn.com and re-edit your own commercial, which isn't up yet.
Our Take: Yeooooowww! Much like the 2010 Hyundai Genesis reveal, this car is all about power slides and burnouts. What does Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins have to do with driving an epic lap? We have no idea. But we give the 1990s alternarock icon credit for mixing together a sweet commercial.

The shots come to us by way of those first-book-o-the-bible boys at GenesisForums and we're lickin' our lips to see the Mustang-killer's small screen debut next month. [via GenesisForums]

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]

The Koreans have moved their game on considerably in recent years. The dash is soft touch, the gear knob is a handsome beast and the chunky sports seats grip you around the bends just as they should. There are also some very fetching aluminium pedals and door sills to spruce up an otherwise fairly standard interior, and there’s full iPod and USB stick compatibility. The instrument binnacle and some of the switchgear still feels a little on the plasticky side though – Volkswagen and Toyota won’t be worrying about the Korean’s quality levels yet. But this is a car that isn’t just about functionality. It has soul to it, emotion - something we haven’t really seen from Korea before.

With the high rating and lack of real complaints other than switchgear, Car Middle East basically claims the Genesis Coupe marks the ascension of the Koreans to a new level. If Hyundai goes the way of Nissan, in ten years perhaps we'll have a Hyundai-built GT-R competitor for Porsche to attempt to discredit. Or, if they go the way of Ford, in ten years perhaps we'll have a Hyundai-built Mustang-killer in every possible variant under the sun. [Car Middle East]

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

We dunno — the front bumper on Jon Sibal's LF-A does appear to bear an uncanny resemblance to the one on the RMR Hyundai Genesis Coupe. What do you think?
(Hat tip to Anderson!) [JonSibal]