Let's face it; the Tiburon virtually has no more compact sports coupe competitors, a segment that's on the artificial respirator. Coupes seemed to have moved upmarket, and Hyundai must rethink its strategy.

The timing actually isn't all that bad for the Korean company, who is seeking to become a more upscale vehicle peddler. As a result, the Tiburon will retire this spring to make way for the Genesis Coupe.


Two engines
By now, you probably already know that Hyundai launched a rear-wheel drive, V8-powered luxury sedan last fall. The new coupe is also called Genesis, although visually, there is no resemblance between the two. However, the Genesis Coupe, like the sedan, sends its power to the rear wheels.

The base 2.0t model will be powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-litre inline-4 that develops 223 hp and 217 lb-ft when super unleaded fuel is used. A 6-speed manual is standard while a 5-speed automatic with manual mode is optional.

The Genesis Coupe V6 features a 24-valve, 3.8-litre V6 that develops 310 horses and 263 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. The manual transmission is also included with the V6, but unlike the 2.0t, the automatic gets 6 gears.

The new car's suspension gets MacPherson struts up front and a multilink arrangement in back. 18-inch alloys are standard but 19-inchers are optional. A stability control system will also figure the standard-equipment list. A Brembo brake upgrade package is optional.

Inside, the Coupe should get all the modern convenience amenities, such as a sound system with a USB port, blue instrument panel illumination, heated front seats and keyless start. Six airbags will also be standard. Seating trim includes a choice of fabric or available leather.