Hyundai's Stunning Genesis Coupe is Dramatic Statement for Korean Brand

Hyundai's next move will put the Korean brand in contention in a field

it's never

competed in before. The new Genesis Coupe, which was introduced in New York last month, will allow the South Korean brand to

offer a rival to the Infiniti G37, Audi A5, and BMW 3-Series Coupe,

just like its new Genesis sedan offers a V8-powered, rear-drive,

full-size luxury alternative to the world's luxury brands.

Little

has changed between the styling of the concept car version that debuted

in Detroit earlier this year, including the much talked about side

window, which dips downward unusually.

Inside, the Genesis

Coupe delivers a similar look to many of Hyundai's recent products, but

the cabin has an appropriately sporty air provided by well-bolstered

bucket seats, plus swoopy console and door trim styling. Feature

content is also looking to be high, with available push-button starter

and high-performance stereo systems with USB audio integration.

The

Genesis Coupe might look like a completely different vehicle thank the

four-door that shares its name, but underneath its underpinnings are

identical. Unlike the Tiburon, this one's rear wheel drive and it has

the same four-wheel multi-link suspension.

In terms of

engines, the Genesis Coupe will be offered with the high-power 310-hp

3.8-liter V6, the same base unit as in the mid-level Genesis sedan but

not the V8. In place of the 3.3-liter V6 there will be a new choice, a

four-cylinder turbo. The 2.0-liter unit pumps out up to 223 horsepower

and 217 lb-ft of torque. You'll be able to buy the Genesis Coupe with

your choice of six-speed manual transmission, or, depending on engine,

a five-speed automatic or six-speed automatic, both with manual mode.

Autocross enthusiasts will also like the fact that they'll be able get

the Genesis with a limited slip differential.