Okay, now we’ve covered marketing and user integration, let’s talk more about the user experience, or more specifically, what we here at Car Overload like to refer to as “the goods”. Hyundai offers several variations of the Genesis Coupe, the most striking differences lie between the 2.0 turbo model and the 3.8L V6 model. Stylistically the two models are the same, which can be recognized as a more mature or modern version of the Tiburon (a much welcome facelift for the Hyundai line in my opinion). Smooth lines and a bold profile give the Genesis Coupe an aggressive look many Hyundai’s have lacked, and its simple yet refined profile give it enough class to bring that aggressive look back into the modern world without feeling too science fiction.
The 3.8L engine model’s baseline 306 HP and 263 lb/ft torque isn’t science fiction either. However, if someone had told me that Hyundai would make a car with specs like that just 2 years ago, I would have laughed my way into a mental institution later that same day. With a curb-weight of about 3,390 it’s not hard to see why this car can fly just as smoothly as it drives.
Equally as tempting and surely as capable to make your knuckles turn white, is the 2.0T model Genesis Coupe. The 2.0T model produces 210hp and 223 lb/ft torque weighing in at 3,290. This is comparable to the 2008 VW GTI, which produces 200hp and 207 lb/ft weighing in at 3,151 (keep in mind the Genesis Coupe is 4.1” wider and is 16.5” longer with 1” bigger wheels baseline option).
Just as surprising as the car’s stock features is the impressive similarity to the prototype unveiled in 2007. The main differences being carbon fiber body kit items which highlighted what Hyundai expected their “target market” to be capable of doing with their stock model.
As the president of the “Haters of Hyundai” club, I surprise myself when I say that no other car has done better for a company than the Hyundai Genesis Coupe when it comes to improving a company’s respect among car enthusiasts. My deepest hope is that American auto makers will take the hint and join the progression towards better automobiles.
