Hyundai reveals stunning 2010 Genesis Coupe at New York Auto Show

We're sure very few people dreamed of a 300-horsepower, rear-drive coupe from Hyundai, but those who did will now have to fantasize about something else.

The Genesis Coupe will be on sale in the spring of 2009 as a 2010 model and will offer a choice of two engines. The base model will get a 212-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4, while the premium model will sport a 306-hp, 3.8-liter 24-valve V6. With premium fuel, Hyundai claims output figures of 223 hp and 217 lb-ft for the 2.0-liter, and 310 hp and 263 lb-ft for the 6-cylinder.


Both engines will come standard with a 6-speed manual. The 4-cylinder can be mated to an optional 5-speed auto with manual mode, while the V6 can be chosen with a ZF-sourced 6-speed auto with manual shift control. The Coupe will be built on the same rear-wheel drive platform as the Genesis Sedan that will also be on sale within the next year.

Very little changes have been made between the production car and the concept that was presented at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. That's good news, because the Genesis Coupe has a shapely body and perfect proportions. 18-inch wheels are standard, while 19-inchers will be optional. A noticeable element on the Coupe is the "teardrop" rear-quarter windows; some like it, some don't.

The Genesis should replace the aging Tiburon. Compared to the company's current coupe, the Genesis is longer, wider, higher and rides on a longer wheelbase.

Inside, the Genesis Coupe gets a sound system that includes an auxiliary input jack but also a USB port. Sport bucket seats will offer two-stage heaters, and the car can also be equipped with a keyless start system. Performance upgrades include a Brembo brakes and a limited-slip differential.

Hyundai claims 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) times of under 6 seconds for the V6 model. Top speed for the 2.0t is 220 km/h while the V6 should reach 240. The Genesis Coupe V6 is squarely aimed at the Infiniti G37.