I don’t recall ever driving a car from a Korean manufacturer that's had as much character and testosterone as the
Genesis Coupe – particularly with the V6. Comparisons with the
Ford Mustang are inevitable, and while Hyundai didn’t quite nail it this sports car is no less impressive.
Take a look at this car: No one can truly say the Genesis Coupe isn’t strikingly beautiful. The duelling character lines on the doors; the sexy hips hugging fantastic alloy wheels; the sleek front fascia; when a car looks this stunning with any aerodynamic add-ons, it usually means the design team hit a home run.
|
| No one can truly say the Genesis Coupé isn’t beautiful. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
Snort-y V6 engine
It’s hard to believe the same powertrain propels both the Sedona minivan and the Genesis Coupe. Yet Hyundai succeeded in creating distinct personalities between the two applications. The 24-valve, 3.8L V6 bolts with 306 hp and 266 lb.-ft of torque, and you can choose between controlling that power with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
Our tester boasts the row-it-yourself gearbox, and blasts to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds to reach the quarter-mile mark in 14.2 seconds at 161 km/h. In comparison, the turbo 4-cylinder version is about a second-and-a-half slower to 100 clicks.
Unfortunately, the clutch-and-shifter combo needs some refinement. The stiff pedal is unpleasant in stop-and-go traffic, while the throws are sloppy and the reverse gear is right next to 1st without a lockout ring or need to push on the lever itself to engage. In short, you sorta get used to it, but it lacks the slick action of the Accord’s manual transmission setup.
 |
| The 3.8L V6 produces 306 horsepower and 266 lb.-ft of torque. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
