The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a sporty rear-wheel drive coupe available with two engines. The 3.8-liter V-6 delivers a formidable 306 horsepower. A turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine produces 210 hp. The Genesis Coupe, especially on the 3.8-liter V-6 paired with a six-speed manual transmission, is on the enthusiast-driven end of the Hyundai spectrum.
Multiple models are available with both engines, and there is noticeable variance in performance. The Genesis Coupe has a sport-tuned suspension, and is loaded with segment leading safety features including front airbags, front-seat side airbags, side air curtains and active head restraints. The interior features high quality materials, with a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and chrome treatments available on some of the models.
The sporty coupe is a strong offering from Hyundai and finds itself comparable to the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger and even the Nissan 370Z.
The Range
Body style: Two-door coupe
Engines: Turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4, 3.6-liter V-6
Transmissions: six-speed manual, five-speed automatic, six-speed automatic
Models: 2.0T, 2.0 R-Spec, 2.0 Premium, 3.8 R-Spec, 3.8 Grand Touring, 3.8 Track
What's New
The Genesis Coupe was basically unchanged for the 2012 model year. The 2013 model year is expected to receive a heavy refresh.
Exterior
At 182.3 inches overall, Hyundai's sport coupe is bigger than you'd think, about the size of a Ford Mustang. Its most distinctive styling cue is the curved notch at the bottom of each side window. 18-inch alloy wheels come standard, 19-inch wheels and Brembo brake calipers come optional on the Track and R-Spec trims.
Interior
The Genesis Coupe has a sporty cabin, and high-grade materials are plentiful throughout. Although technically it seats four people, rear seating is snug. Styling options range from youthful and sporty to more upscale. Leather is available and tasteful metal-grain accents are used throughout. Navigation and 10-speaker audio are available.
Performance & Handling
Still evident on the 2012's is great handling and a sporty drive. The 3.8-liter engine is by far the better option here; not only is it a more powerful, but it’s more refined, too. And when equipped with the manual transmission, the 3.8-liter is an especially fun drive. The automatic transmission equipped models are not nearly as engaging, even when using the manual mode. Steering is responsive, and the 3.8-liter engine propels the Coupe to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds (6.8 with the 2.0T).
Safety
The Genesis Coupe received high marks on government cash tests. Features such as driver and front passenger airbags, seat-mounted side airbags, and window curtain airbags are standard. So are stability control, traction control, ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and Brake assist, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
EPA Fuel Economy
2.0T: 20-21 mpg city/30 mpg highway
3.8: 17 mpg city/26-27 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Cool looks
- Fun to drive
- Terrific V-6
- Good fuel economy
You Won't Like
- Unrefined turbo four
- Rubbery feel to 2.0T manual
- Intrusive stability control
Sum Up
Korean pony can bite too
If You Like This Vehicle
- Ford Mustang
- Honda Accord Coupe
- Chevrolet Camaro