The New Kid on the Block Packs a Mean Punch: Hyundai's Genesis V6 Coupe

Dubbed a “Mustang-killer” by some, the Genesis V6 coupe by Hyundai was created to be able to stand toe-to-toe with some of the most iconic automotive lines on the market.  The Genesis is a big leap for Hyundai, and marks some fierce new competition for leading manufacturers of sports cars.  Packing a lot of power under the hood, the Genesis will be popular not only with those who enjoy a car with lots of horsepower but will also be a major draw for those racing enthusiasts who are looking for the right car to land them in the winner’s circle.  For those who may balk at the “Genesis” name, you’ll be pleased to know that the Genesis V6 coupe isn’t just a smaller version of Hyundai’s Genesis sedan but is instead a sport compact destined to make a name for itself; “Genesis” is simply the name for a particular line of Hyundai rear-wheel drive cars.

Stats and Features

Power and control are the key words when thinking about the Genesis V6 coupe.  Its 3.8-liter Lambda V6 produces over 300 horsepower and over 260 foot-pounds of torque, providing ample power and allowing the car to travel from 0 to 60 in under six seconds and achieve a maximum top speed just under 150 miles per hour with standard equipment.  The transmission is a six-speed manual by default, though an optional six-speed automatic is also available for those who prefer an auto.  The Genesis is Hyundai’s first rear-wheel drive coupe, adding to the excellent control offered by the car.  As an optional feature, a limited slip differential can also be added to grant the car even greater control.

On top of the power offered by the Hyundai Genesis V6 coupe, a number of additional features are available at no additional cost.  Bluetooth connectivity is built in, as is easy connection of personal audio and music storage devices.  An in-dash LCD screen serves as an easy interface with your external music source, allowing you to see what’s playing and scroll through music selections without having to look away from the road.  While other manufacturers may charge extra for features such as these, with the Genesis V6 coupe they won’t add anything to the sport compact’s low price.  Even with optional navigation and control features added you can still expect to pay less than $30,000 for the coupe.

Competitors

When many people think of Japanese import cars, the main competition that comes to mind is other imports and small American coupes.  The Genesis V6 coupe has higher aspirations, however; the car is designed to serve as competition for such heavy hitters as the Ford Mustang, the Chevrolet Camaro, and the Dodge Challenger.  Road tests and comparisons between the Genesis coupe and the Infiniti G37, considered by some to be one of its closest competitors, show the Genesis to be both competent on the track and very predictable when it comes to handling.  Despite its relatively lighter weight, the Hyundai coupe was able to perform competitively and has earned the adoration of sports car fans and the automotive press alike.

Impact on the Racing Community

One of the largest groups to get excited about the Hyundai Genesis V6 coupe is the racing community, many members of which are ready to embrace the new coupe with open arms.  Given its solid performance, powerful engine, and strong handling, the car is perfect for both track racers and drift racers alike.  Track racers are excited at the prospect of having a Japanese import that has enough power to perform against the likes of Mustangs and Chargers, while drift racers are excited about tests which show the Genesis V6 coupe to have excellent performance on skid-pads and the handling that will enable the Genesis to take them to victory on even the most treacherous of drift courses.  Given the performance that the new Genesis coupes have been able to demonstrate for reviewers using stock parts, the racing community waits to see what aftermarket parts will be able to do to make the coupe into a total monster on the track.

-Photos by MTM and Formula D "Rhys Millen's Red Bull Hyundai Genesis", Article by MTM Staff