Some details: At the top of the range is the 306-horsepower GT model, while lower down the lineup is the 210-hp version with its turbocharged four-banger.
The turbo would be my choice. It has plenty of power using regular gas, yet with the standard six-speed manual transmission is rated at 10.1 litres/100 km in the city and 6.6 on the highway. With a 0-100 km/h time of just past eight seconds, the $25,000 coupe has very good power and very good fuel economy.
The V-6, meanwhile, is a rocket ship. It will go from 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, and with the manual six-speed gets 12.0 L/100 km city/7.6 highway. For an extra $1,500, you can get a five-speed automatic in the four-cylinder car or a six-speed in the V-6. Both include standard paddle shifters so you can play F1 racer.
The sporty pretensions are completely intentional. Hyundai insists that this car is not simply a two-door version of the Genesis sedan. It is shorter, though the 2,820-mm wheelbase is generous for a coupe.
The point is, the cabin, while smaller than the sedan's, is not cramped. It's just a more personal space. There is a back seat, but it's best left for the kids.
The driving position will be a good fit for almost anyone, though I'd like more padding - thicker, firmer padding - and more under-thigh support in the leather seats. The cloth ones in the less-expensive car were more comfortable.
Of course, there are buyers who will want it all, including the leather seats (heated) and the full GT package. The GT has the full complement of high-performance hardware, including Bridgestone Potenza RE050A summer-performance tires (225/40YR19 front, 245/40YR19 rear) and Brembo brakes with four-piston front calipers and 13.4-inch front rotors.
The track-tuned suspension has higher rate springs and dampers, plus a stiffer rear anti-roll bar. The latter helps reduce understeer. The front suspension is a strut type, but that's not uncommon in this class and it works fine in the Hyundai.
The V-6 has loads of moxie, but what's surprising is how good the four-banger is - especially given its modest roots. Remember, this 2.0-litre four was developed in a joint venture with Mitsubishi and Chrysler back when the three had an alliance.
While this engine has much in common with the engine in the Dodge Caliber, the low-pressure turbo engine delivers lots of boost. Give thanks in part to the intercooler and variable valve timing.
The car's designers deserve a nod, too. The Genesis Coupe is a clean, balanced design without excessive or unwanted flourishes or affectations. You'll notice it, but not too much.
All in all, then, Hyundai has a serious car here. It's well equipped for the price, has nimble handling, a firm ride and plenty of standard features.
Hyundai doesn't plan to sells tens of thousands of these coupes, but what they lack in volume will be made up for in changed perceptions. If you hadn't noticed, this car will help convince you that Hyundai is a very serious player now.
*****
2010 HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE
Type: Rear-drive coupe
Price range: $24,495-$34,995
Engine: 2.0-litre inline-four-cylinder, DOHC/3.8-litre V-6, DOHC
Horsepower/Torque:
210 hp/223 lb-ft for four-cylinder
306 hp/266 lb-ft for V-6
Transmission: Six-speed manual; five-speed automatic for the four-cylinder and six-speed automatic for the V-6
Drive: Rear-wheel-drive
Fuel economy (litres/100 km):
10.1 city/6.6 highway (four-cylinder with manual transmission)
12.0 city/7.6 highway (V-6 with manual)
regular gas
Alternatives: Nissan 370Z, Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Nissan Altima Coupe, Honda Accord Coupe, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Chevy Cobalt SS, Infiniti G37, BMW 335i, Nissan's 370Z
*****
Like
Smooth, polished design
Quick in the corners and strong off the line
Simple, useful cabin design with the appropriate electronic features
Hyundai's emerging quality and safety reputation
*****
Don't like
Seats need more padding and under-thigh support
Hyundai resale values still need work
