2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Preview

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a sporty rear-wheel drive coupe with two available engines. The 3.8-liter V-6 provides a formidable 306 hp. A turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine produces 210 hp. The Genesis Coupe, especially the 3.8-liter V-6 coupled to a six-speed gearbox is driven at the enthusiast end of the Hyundai range.

Several models are available with either engine, and there is noticeable difference in performance. The Genesis Coupe has a sport-tuned suspension, and is loaded with segment-leading safety features including front airbags, front seat side airbags, side air curtains and active headrests. The interior features high quality materials, a leather steering wheel and shift knob, chrome and treatments available on some of the models.

The sporty coupe is a strong selection of Hyundai and is similar to the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger and even the Nissan 370Z.

Body style: Two-door coupe

Engines: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, 3.6-liter V-6

Transmissions: six-speed manual, five-speed automatic, six-speed automatic

Models: 2.0T, 2.0 R-Spec, 2.0 Premium, 3.8 R-Spec, 3.8 Grand Touring, Track 3.8

The Genesis Coupe was virtually unchanged for the 2012 model year. The 2013 model year is expected to receive a hard refresh.

182.3 cm in total, Hyundai's sports coupe is bigger than you might think, about the size of a Ford Mustang. The most distinctive styling cue is the slight notch at the bottom of each side window. 18-inch alloy wheels are standard, 19-inch wheels and Brembo brakes are optional on the track and the R-Spec finish.

The Genesis Coupe is a sporty cabin and premium materials are abundant throughout. Although technically it seats four people, has tight rear seats. Styling options range from youthful and sporty to more upscale. Leather is available and tasteful metal accents are used in grain. Navigation and 10-speaker audio available.

Still visible in the 2012's has great handling and a sporty driving style. The 3.8-liter engine is by far the better option here, not only is it a powerful, but it is more refined, too. And when equipped with the manual gearbox, the 3.8-liter is a particularly fun to drive. The automatic transmission-equipped models are not nearly as exciting, even when using the manual mode. Steering response, and the 3.8-liter engine propels the Coupé to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds (6.8 to 2.0T).

The Genesis Coupe received high grades on tests, government cash. Functions such as driver and passenger airbags, seat-mounted side bags and window curtain airbags are standard. So stability control, traction control, ABS with electronic brake force distribution and Brake Assist and a tire pressure monitoring system.

2.0T: 20-21 mpg city/30 mpg highway

3.8: 17 mpg highway mpg city/26-27

2.0T Coupe

Sticker Price: $23,500

Grand Touring Coupe

Sticker Price: $29,750

Premium Coupe

Sticker Price: $26,750

R-Spec Coupe

Sticker Price: $24,500

Track Coupe

Sticker Price: $32,250