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2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Bottom Line

May 27, 2009

By Rex Roy's avatar Rex Roy, Detroit EditorRex Roy

TheCarConnection.com has driven the all-new 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe on the street and the track. In addition, our team has compiled the best, most useful remarks from other reviews of the Genesis Coupe to produce this comprehensive review.

Likes:

  • Aggressive style
  • Powerful engines/transmissions
  • Good handling
  • Solid quality
  • Hyundai value and warranty

Dislikes:

  • Minor refinement issues
  • Some awkward interior controls

Buying Tips:


The residual values of Hyundai models continue to rise, meaning you can consider leasing a 2010 Genesis Coupe at attractive monthly payments.

Hyundai's new two-door, four-seat, rear-wheel-drive sport coupe is available in four- and six-cylinder variants. The 2009 Hyundai Genesis Coupe faces off against a wide range of sporty coupe—including the Infiniti G37 and even the new 2010 Ford Mustang.

The Coupe's unique styling uses a bold Z-shaped character line visible along the side plus a dip in the glass toward the rear of the cabin. This dip helps make the interior feel more spacious and aids in outward visibility.

The four-cylinder model uses Hyundai's turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, which churns out 210 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque. That version gets the moniker Coupe 2.0t. Mileage is estimated at 21 mpg city, 30 highway with the manual, 20/29 mpg for the automatic. Inside the more powerful Coupe 3.8, the engine bay is wedged full with a 3.8-liter V-6 that has 306 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. For comparison, the Mustang Bullitt kicks up 315 hp and the Infiniti G37 330 hp. The most recent addition to this group is the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro; with a V-6, it puts out 304 horsepower. Fuel consumption is 18 mpg city, 26 highway for the manual, 17/26 mpg for the automatic.

Hyundai says its coupe hits 60 mph in about six seconds and go on to a limited top speed of 149 mph. After our time in the driver's seat, this figure feels about right.

A six-speed manual is standard with both engines. The four-cylinder gets an optional five-speed automatic, while the V-6 version can be outfitted with a six-speed automatic made by ZF. The manual gearboxes shift competently with a good mechanical feel.

Like the Infiniti, Camaro, and Challenger, but unlike the Mustang, Hyundai's Coupe sports an independent suspension at all four corners. A five-link setup based on the Genesis Sedan hangs out in back. Even the base four-cylinder car comes with 18-inch wheels; 19-inch rims are also available. Tire sizes are staggered front-to-rear for better grip.

Our only significant complaint about the new Coupe is something most drivers won't notice at first. After many miles behind the wheel, our testers tired of the constant feedback through the steering wheel. We believe the minor but incessant "static" is communicated to the rack-and-pinion steering gear and then up to the wheel.

Dynamically, the four- and six-cylinder Genesis Coupe models are different animals. The 2.0t feels light and balanced. It accelerates with just a hint of turbo lag, but the car never comes across as flat-footed. The turbo's ramp in power gives the car a bit of welcome personality. The V-6 feels powerful and pulls hard. You'll never mistake it for a V-8, but the car has strong legs that like to run.

The interior adopts a pleasant, not entirely edgy theme that includes a big tachometer and speedometer splayed in the driver's sight. A push-button starter and a proximity key are offered. The interior looks sharp with optional leather. Window and mirror controls are on the driver's door, but placed at an odd angle that takes some getting used to.

Regarding safety, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe includes standard front, side, and curtain airbags. Whiplash-reducing active head restraints are also standard on the front seats. As expected, anti-lock brakes come standard, and an excellent Brembo brake package is a performance add-on. Electronic stability control with integrated traction control rounds out the major safety features. At the time we filed this report, the Genesis Coupe hadn't completed IIHS or government crash tests, but Hyundai representatives told us they expect five-star front and four-star rear crash ratings.

The standard audio system for every 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe includes iPod jacks, a USB input, and Bluetooth connectivity. A 300-watt Infinity audio system is available, as are heated seats. Additional model packages (Premium, Grand Touring, Track, and R-Spec) group features as their names imply. The R-Spec is particularly interesting, as it provides genuine track-readiness in an affordable package just waiting for enthusiasts to modify.

Other Choices:

If you like the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe, also consider:

Reason Why:

Because of its price, range of engines, and performance, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe faces off against a variety of competitors. At the low end, shoppers looking at the Scion tC could move up to the fresh shape and rear-wheel-drive performance. Honda Accord Coupe shoppers could look to the Hyundai for sportier handling and more style, but they'd sacrifice some refinement and their addiction to the Honda name. More than the Ford Mustang or Dodge Challenger, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro V-6 gives the Genesis Coupe a run for the money in the value category, with the least-expensive Chevy starting for about $23,000. The Genesis looks less macho next to any of the reconstituted nameplates from Detroit, and V-8s still rule when it comes to ultimate performance bragging rights. There is also the chance that G37 shoppers might consider the Genesis because the two cars are so close in power, but the Infiniti is silkier and more refined. You get what you pay for, in this case.

The Bottom Line:

For $22,000, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0t represents a heck of a performance value.

TheCarConnection.com has driven the all-new 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe on the street and the track. In addition, our team has compiled the best, most useful remarks from other reviews of the Genesis Coupe to produce this comprehensive review. Likes:Aggressive stylePowerful engines/transmissionsGood handlingSolid qualityHyundai value and warrantyDislikes:Minor refinement issuesSome awkward interior controlsBuying Tips: The residual values of Hyundai models continue to rise, meaning you can consider leasing a 2010 Genesis Coupe at attractive monthly payments. Hyundai's new two-door, four-seat, rear-wheel-drive sport coupe is available in four- and six-cylinder variants. The 2009 Hyundai Genesis Coupe faces off against a wide range of sporty coupe—including the Infiniti G37 and even the new 2010 Ford Mustang. The Coupe's unique styling uses a bold Z-shaped character line visible along the side plus a dip in the glass toward the rear of the cabin. This dip helps make the interior feel more spacious and aids in outward visibility. The four-cylinder model uses Hyundai's turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, which churns out 210 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque. That version gets the moniker Coupe 2.0t. Mileage is estimated at 21 mpg city, 30 highway with the manual, 20/29 mpg for the automatic. Inside the more powerful Coupe 3.8, the engine bay is wedged full with a 3.8-liter V-6 that has 306 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. For comparison, the Mustang Bullitt kicks up 315 hp and the Infiniti G37 330 hp. The most recent addition to this group is the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro; with a V-6, it puts out 304 horsepower. Fuel consumption is 18 mpg city, 26 highway for the manual, 17/26 mpg for the automatic. Hyundai says its coupe hits 60 mph in about six seconds and go on to a limited top speed of 149 mph. After our time in the driver's seat, this figure feels about right. A six-speed manual is standard with both engines. The four-cylinder gets an optional five-speed automatic, while the V-6 version can be outfitted with a six-speed automatic made by ZF. The manual gearboxes shift competently with a good mechanical feel. Like the Infiniti, Camaro, and Challenger, but unlike the Mustang, Hyundai's Coupe sports an independent suspension at all four corners. A five-link setup based on the Genesis Sedan hangs out in back. Even the base four-cylinder car comes with 18-inch wheels; 19-inch rims are also available. Tire sizes are staggered front-to-rear for better grip. Our only significant complaint about the new Coupe is something most drivers won't notice at first. After many miles behind the wheel, our testers tired of the constant feedback through the steering wheel. We believe the minor but incessant "static" is communicated to the rack-and-pinion steering gear and then up to the wheel. Dynamically, the four- and six-cylinder Genesis Coupe models are different animals. The 2.0t feels light and balanced. It accelerates with just a hint of turbo lag, but the car never comes across as flat-footed. The turbo's ramp in power gives the car a bit of welcome personality. The V-6 feels powerful and pulls hard. You'll never mistake it for a V-8, but the car has strong legs that like to run. The interior adopts a pleasant, not entirely edgy theme that includes a big tachometer and speedometer splayed in the driver's sight. A push-button starter and a proximity key are offered. The interior looks sharp with optional leather. Window and mirror controls are on the driver's door, but placed at an odd angle that takes some getting used to. Regarding safety, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe includes standard front, side, and curtain airbags. Whiplash-reducing active head restraints are also standard on the front seats. As expected, anti-lock brakes come standard, and an excellent Brembo brake package is a performance add-on. Electronic stability control with integrated traction control rounds out the major safety features. At the time we filed this report, the Genesis Coupe hadn't completed IIHS or government crash tests, but Hyundai representatives told us they expect five-star front and four-star rear crash ratings. The standard audio system for every 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe includes iPod jacks, a USB input, and Bluetooth connectivity. A 300-watt Infinity audio system is available, as are heated seats. Additional model packages (Premium, Grand Touring, Track, and R-Spec) group features as their names imply. The R-Spec is particularly interesting, as it provides genuine track-readiness in an affordable package just waiting for enthusiasts to modify. Other Choices:If you like the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe, also consider:Scion tCHonda Accord CoupeChevrolet CamaroInfiniti G37Reason Why:Because of its price, range of engines, and performance, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe faces off against a variety of competitors. At the low end, shoppers looking at the Scion tC could move up to the fresh shape and rear-wheel-drive performance. Honda Accord Coupe shoppers could look to the Hyundai for sportier handling and more style, but they'd sacrifice some refinement and their addiction to the Honda name. More than the Ford Mustang or Dodge Challenger, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro V-6 gives the Genesis Coupe a run for the money in the value category, with the least-expensive Chevy starting for about $23,000. The Genesis looks less macho next to any of the reconstituted nameplates from Detroit, and V-8s still rule when it comes to ultimate performance bragging rights. There is also the chance that G37 shoppers might consider the Genesis because the two cars are so close in power, but the Infiniti is silkier and more refined. You get what you pay for, in this case. The Bottom Line:For $22,000, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0t represents a heck of a performance value. TheCarConnection.com has driven the all-new 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe on the street and the track. In addition, our team has compiled the best, most useful remarks from other reviews of the Genesis Coupe to produce this comprehensive review. Likes Aggressive style Powerful ...

Other Choices:

Because of its price, range of engines, and performance, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe faces off against a variety of competitors. At the low end, shoppers looking at the Scion tC could move up to the fresh shape and rear-wheel-drive performance. Honda Accord Coupe shoppers could look to the Hyundai for sportier handling and more style, but they'd sacrifice some refinement and their addiction to the Honda name. More than the Ford Mustang or Dodge Challenger, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro V-6 gives the Genesis Coupe a run for the money in the value category, with the least-expensive Chevy starting for about $23,000. The Genesis looks less macho next to any of the reconstituted nameplates from Detroit, and V-8s still rule when it comes to ultimate performance bragging rights. There is also the chance that G37 shoppers might consider the Genesis because the two cars are so close in power, but the Infiniti is silkier and more refined. You get what you pay for, in this case.

Next Steps:

Get a free price quote

for the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe from a dealer near you

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for a 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe near you

See the Hyundai Genesis Coupe in Other Years:

2010

Comments (2 total)

  1. By Draven #2, Posted: 10/28/2009

    The Genesis Coupe is for minimalist drivers who appreciate a gorgeous car with some serious balls, without the pretentious and snobbery of a big-name brand like Infiniti. I have nothing against the G37, but it is difficult to justify paying almost $10,000 - $15,000 more for a car that can't escape a competitor like the Genesis Coupe on a tearaway. Although the car lacks luxury features like a telescopic steering wheel (God knows how people survived before THEY were invented), it justifies its price tag completely. My 3.8 GT (basically a Canadian Coupe with a Grand Touring option package married to the Track racing suspension) is a monster that can easily keep up with its contemporaries, or beat them outright.
    Competitiveness aside, the car is deadly amounts of FUN. Although comparisons are made to the G37, you'll only notice that on the back end unless you're actively looking to discredit the car in the looks department. Here in Toronto, G37s drive by all the time and barely anyone gives it a passing glance. When my Yellow 3.8 Gen Coupe drives by, jaws drop, people point with googly eyes, guys roll down their windows at red lights and confront you at gas station fillups to congratulate you on your "sweet ride," and you definitely get the sense that Hyundai is a brand that has earned its newfound respect.
    It's a powerful sports car with a very attractive price tag. It isn't big on options. You're paying for a healthy, aggressive V6 and some serious stylin'. If that's your bag, the Gen is your car. If not, you'd best look elsewhere.

  2. By Ecutuner #3, Posted: 11/14/2009

    Car connection, I'm begining to question your judgement about cars if you can find the amounts of negative nit pickings you have about such a fine invention like the Genesis Coupe. There is nothing like this car in the market and it just happens to come with great value too. What other RWD 2 Liter turbo can you find out there? You're going to compare this with the Scion TC that is on paper? If Toyota intended the Scion to come out with that 3SGTE turbo 2L in RWD that it should have had in the first place, come out for 2010, I think we would have known about already; why even go there. Everyone else has whipmped out and given use some mediocre rubbish 2 litre lame engines. And how can you compare any of Detroit's muscles which know nothing about handling. Also, think about how easy it is to tune this car, or just ask Mr. Rys Millen. I don't think you review is credible especially that all you can find to fault it by is it's interior.

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