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What is it? Hyundai pulled the cover off a tuned version of the Genesis Coupe that, along with a sedan, sits on a new rear-wheel drive platform. Beneath the two-tone paint and dramatic body kit is the coupe scheduled to reach the U.S. market in 2009.
The base engine will be a turbocharged four-cylinder, although performance numbers have yet to be released. The top engine, however, warrants the greater attention. Hyundai promises more than 300 horsepower from a 3.8-liter V6, putting the car in the performance league of the Infiniti G37 coupe. The V6 will be matched to a six-speed manual transmission, which may result in 0-60 mph times under six seconds. Brembo disc brakes will be used at all four corners.
The production version of the Genesis coupe will be introduced at the New York auto show.
What is new and notable? Hyundai was clear that this model would supplement the line-up, and not replace the sporty Tiburon coupe. In fact, Hyundai hinted that a more affordable front-wheel drive sporty car is also in the offing.
CR’s take: You wouldn’t normally think of Hyundai when thinking of spirited cars, but if this coupe is as good as they claim, some perceptions may change.
When will it be available? Spring 2009.
Consumer Reports New cars: A to Z
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