What is it?This is the new Hyundai Genesis Coupe – a model designed to fill the sports car-shaped void in Hyundai's non-European line-up.
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe shares its platform as well as its name with the recently launched Genesis saloon, but follows a classic sports car format with short overhangs and a low, wide stance. It looks as much muscle car as sleek coupe.
Two petrol engines are available: a 210bhp 2.0-litre unit and a 303bhp 3.8-litre V6. The 3.8-litre V6 with the optional six-speed ZF auto 'box is tested here. The Coupe gets a six-speed manual gearbox as standard.
What’s it like?The low seating position and roomy interior is reminiscent of the Genesis saloon, but the driving experience is a long way from that sedate executive cruiser.
Push the start button to awaken the V6, touch the throttle and the immediate response makes it obvious that the Genesis has plenty of power to entertain, but its abilities as a Grand Tourer outweight the underlying potential as a sports car.
It may be heavy, but the Hyundai Genesis Coupe will complete the 0-60mph sprint in 6.5secs. A 54:46 front-rear weight distribution and 303bhp going through the rear tyres means there’s plenty of poise and pace to keep most GT owners happy in those moments when they leave the motorway and seek some thrills on the back roads.
In reality, it’s as a stylish cruiser that the Genesis Coupe really shines. Its long, wide wheelbase endows it with good stability at any speeds, and the long-ratio gearing means you can cover long distances at high speeds without ever going near the redline.
Even the engine suits cruising, offering a decent enough soundtrack without ever becoming intrusive in the cabin.
Downsides are that the ride never really settles as you would want in a Grand Tourer, and there are too many cheap plastics in the interior for a car intended to embody a truly desirable, high-class Hyundai.
Should I buy one?
You can’t. The Genesis Coupe will only go on sale in Korea, China and America. If you do fancy an import, the Genesis has one truly tempting aspect – its price. Using current conversion rates, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe will start from a hilariously cheap £13,000 when it goes on sale in Korea.
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Re: Driven: Hyundai Genesis Coupe
I'm not precious; sign me up, but make sure I get the furry dice and the go faster stripes thrown in.
Re: Driven: Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Oh I've just read they won't be bringing it to the UK, thats a shame as I think it would've sold well if the price was right.
Re: Driven: Hyundai Genesis Coupe
There's definitely a market for a cheap genuine coupe in the UK. This definitely looks the part, I'm sure it drives well too. Hopefully Hyundai can keep the price down, and introduce a cheap V8 model too, that would be great.