Hyundai Genesis Coupe Review

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T Premium Coupe Shown

Hyundai sells two rear-wheel-drive cars under the Genesis name, but they couldn't 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 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, new for 2010, is available with a choice of two engines: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo ("2.0T") that makes 210 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.8-liter V6 that cranks out 306 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. For all trims, a standard-six speed manual channels the horsepower to the rear wheels. A five-speed automatic is optional on four-cylinder models (except for the hard-core manual-only Track version), while a six-speed automatic is optional on all 3.8 models. Both automatics have paddle shifters.

Even the base Genesis Coupe 2.0T includes Bluetooth connectivity and a CD/MP3 stereo with a USB/iPod port. As buyers work their way up through the trim levels, features like a moonroof, a power driver seat, keyless ignition, leather upholstery, xenon headlights and a premium audio system are added. Both the 2.0T and the V6 models are also available in Track trim, which adds a sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, Brembo brakes, a limited-slip rear differential, a rear spoiler and aluminum pedals.

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. Our only serious complaints from behind the wheel involved the manual shifter, which feels vague, and the clutch, which is extraordinarily finicky.

Inside, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe has relatively high-quality materials, and fit and finish is good. The driver seat provides ample bolstering and provides a low, cockpit-like driving position. However, the tilt steering wheel doesn't telescope, which can be an issue for shorter drivers in the Genesis Coupe's case, and the backseat is strictly for children. Overall, though, we consider the Hyundai Genesis Coupe a great leap forward for the South Korean carmaker as it strives to establish itself as a performance and luxury brand in addition to one defined by value.

SELECT A SPECIFIC HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.