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2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe First Impressions

2 avril 2009

par Bertrand Godin , Auto123.com

Ambitious yet sensible powertrains
Mechanically speaking, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe meets GT car expectations. Unlike the sedan, there's no thundering V8 to be found under the hood. Rather, buyers can opt for one of two well-balanced, perfectly-adapted powertrains.

That 3.8-liter, six-cylinder engine is derived from the Azera and Genesis sedans.

First, the 2.0-liter, turbocharged aluminum 4-cylinder develops 210 horsepower and 223 lb-ft of torque at a low 2,000 rpm. While obviously less powerful than the available V6, it contributes to greater agility on the road thanks to better weight distribution.

Despite a little turbo lag, this forced-fed four-banger is nearly one second faster than its big brother through slaloms. In straight lines, though, it tops the century mark in 8.3 seconds whereas the V6 barely takes 6 seconds.

That 3.8-liter, six-cylinder engine is derived from the Azera and Genesis sedans. Numerous modifications have altered its output to 306 horsepower along with a torque rating of 266 lb-ft at 4,700 rpm. For instance, Hyundai engineers installed an upgraded cooling system, increased the flow of the exhaust system and reworked the engine block.

The V6 might boost performance, but it does so at the expense of weight efficiency. The distribution indeed shifts to 55/45 (front/rear) when you select the bigger mill. Since the Genesis Coupe is fairly heavy, you hardly feel the 306 ponies driving the rear axle. On a twisty track and with ESC switched off, you can't sustain momentum given the understeer induced by all that mass up front.

Infallible basis
The 6-speed manual gearbox is a treat. It handles easily and precisely. The clutch is firm, which adds to the sportiness of the Genesis. The optional Shiftronic automatic transmission with paddle shifters offers five forward gears when mated to the 2.0T engine and six with the V6.

Since the Genesis Coupe is fairly heavy, you hardly feel the 306 ponies driving the rear axle.
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