2009 Hyundai Genesis Coupe: A Star is Born!
When I took possession of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, I thought I had the vehicle all figured out already. You see, articles by experienced auto journalists and media calls all led me to conclude that this vehicle was replacing the Tiburon, and the only thing it had in common with the sedan version was its name. Yep, I had it all figured out before even turning the key – or so I thought. Much to my surprise, I soon discovered that I was behind the wheel of an amazing car. My assumption had been that the only thing sporty about this vehicle was its body, but in fact the Genesis Coupe is positively dynamic and exciting. Two engines are available: a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged and a 3.8L naturally aspirated V6.
A real beauty
It would be a crime not to mention the exterior design of the Genesis Coupe, which seems to have been inspired by the Aston Martin DBS. Low, wide, and with an elongated hood, there’d be plenty of room for the sedan’s V8 in there. Plus the short overhang and the wide space between the front wheel and the door give it an added sense of length and stability. It should also be said that the front and back ends are very well balanced, like what you’d find on an exotic vehicle. All the elements are integrated just right, and the lights have been placed judiciously. The 18- and 19-inch wheels fill the wheel wells splendidly, and the sides of the vehicle are admirably sculpted for a car of this calibre.
Inside, we find the same fluid design, with abundant curves and an unobtrusive central console. Ok, so it’s not exactly an F-18 cockpit, but it’s pleasantly luxurious and sober. A quality interior. The front seats offer comfort and excellent lateral support. It’s easy enough to obtain a good driving position, despite the lack of a telescopic steering wheel. With a high belt line, the car seems to envelop the driver, and it’s not to the detriment of visibility. Rear passengers don’t have it quite so good, though, as there isn’t much legroom or head space. But compared to other 2+2 models, the back seats of the Genesis are acceptable enough. And in case it crossed your mind to parade this car down your city’s main drag, you’ll be happy to know that the sound system is practically flawless.
Just good enough
What surprised me the most about the Genesis Coupe, however, was the way it drives. Even though our test model only had 4 cylinders, it offered some pretty sweet performances. Paired with an automatic transmission with wheel-mounted paddle-shifters, the little 4-cylindre turbo proved its stuff. Gear shifts are quick and precise (though not nearly as efficient as the Volkswagen’s DSG), but its acceleration time will not break any records (since it is on par with many other compacts currently on the market). That said, with a well-balanced weight, the Genesis Coupe was cool and stable on rapid accelerations. And the upshifts speak well for the way the transmission works.
Nice balance
On the road, the Genesis Coupe offers exemplary stability. The suspension is firm enough for the city, yet comfortable out on the highway. It’s also perfectly adequate for circuit driving, but since most people won’t be using it for those purposes, it’s kind of an irrelevant detail. The brakes proved powerful, and the large tires maximize the surface area in contact with the asphalt for better traction. As for the steering, it’s precise, effective and receives a good amount of assistance. The Hyundai engineers did a superb job in giving this vehicle a captivating sound, like the best sports cars out there. The muffler lets out a rich, low sound, just loud enough to let you know how powerful the vehicle is and make you want to push it to its limits. Since the Genesis Coupe is rear-wheel drive, you can really feel the push when you accelerate and you notice the absence of torque steerr in the steering wheel – two factors that contribute to its sporty character. For more demanding drivers, Hyundai offers more powerful Brembo brakes and a recalibrated suspension (these are factory-standard on the V6 versions).
The other version
While the 4-cylinder turbocharged Genesis is a sound and reasonable choice, the vehicle also comes equipped with a powerful naturally aspirated V6. This gives it some extra kick, but also adds more weight to the front of the vehicle, which affects the balance and makes it more apt to understeer. Obviously, however, a more stable V6 makes the Genesis Coupe drive more solidly and smoothly. I’d just need to test it out to be sure, though.
Contrary to what many people say, the Genesis Coupe is only replacing the Tiburon in name. This vehicle is not actually an evolved Tiburon, as it takes many of its elements from its sedan sister. With a reasonable starting price, plus the fact that it’s good-looking and pleasant to drive, it’s an appealing vehicle. And given the leaps and bounds Hyundai has made in terms of reliability since its debut in North America, there’s no need to be concerned about the quality of their products. The Genesis Coupe is certainly an achievement that Hyundai can be extremely proud of.