2010 Hyundai Genesis Overview

The rear-wheel-drive Genesis Coupe is powered either by a 2.0-liter turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder engine or a 306-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6. Both engines come with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or optional Shiftronic automatic, including steering-wheel paddle-shifters. The automatic transmission has five gears on 4-cylinder cars, six gears with the V6.

The Genesis Coupe has the mechanical layout and performance hardware of a true sports coupe. The front suspension employs a solid frame, along with a MacPherson strut layout, while a multi-link setup in back helps maintain grip and ride quality. Big stabilizer bars are employed front and back, and the rack-and-pinion steering has engine-speed-sensitive power steering.

The Coupe weighs less than 3,400 pounds-even when fitted with the heavier V6-which is still hundreds of pounds less than most rival sport coupes, which helps it feel especially quick and nimble. Four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock and brake assist are included on all models, while electronic stability control is included as a standard feature across the model line. Altogether, the V6 can accelerate to 60 mph in less than six seconds and only requires regular gasoline, while the 4-cylinder model boasts a highway fuel economy figure of 30 mpg. Drivability promises to be especially good with the smooth V6, which has both a variable intake system and continuously variable valve timing for strong response at both low and high revs.

Inside, the Genesis Coupe has sport bucket seats in front, with ample side bolsters to hold occupants in place around fast corners; the back seat is small, but there should be enough space for a couple of kids. The instrument panel has a distinctive center stack, housing audio and climate controls and finished with a matte-metallic finish; it's topped with a display that's located high in the driver's field of vision, and the instrument cluster has big, round conventional gauges. Four different very distinct interior themes are offered, including saddle brown leather and black leather-bolstered seats with red cloth inserts.

Four-cylinder models come in base, Premium and Track trims, while the V6 comes in base, Grand Touring, and Track variants. The base 2.0T 4-cylinder Coupe starts at a low $22,000 and includes the conveniences most sport coupe drivers require, including air conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry and power accessories, plus leather steering wheel and shift knob trim. Premium and Grand Touring models add luxury features such as HID xenon headlamps, a sunroof, a Smartkey entry/starting system, and an upgraded 10-speaker Infinity sound system.

Befitting their name, Genesis Coupes in Track trim get a host of upgrades making them ready for enthusiastic weekend driving. In addition to a track-tuned suspension, Brembo braking system, and limited-slip differential, they get 19-inch wheels with Y-rated summer performance tires, a rear spoiler and aluminum pedals.