Genesis Coupe First Test
Tom Martin
Here is the release on the Genesis Coupe pricing and features:
http://www.nextautos.com/hyundai-announces-pricing-2010-genesis-coupe
These seem pretty attractive on paper. But you don't drive paper. I'll be going to Vegas at the end of the month to drive the various Genesisi, so let me know what questions you've got so that I can bring back answers.
Update:
Actually, I just went to Vegas. You can ask more questions about what I learned by clicking here to go to our Ask It forum.
I did a road test write up of my Vegas experience. You can read my First Drive report by clicking here .
Thanks for the questions below.
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Lear
The R-Spec at $24k, seems attractive to me:
R-Spec provides genuine track-readiness in an affordable model.
The R-Spec adds core performance equipment to the most affordable 2.0T
model, such as: Track-tuned suspension, 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy
wheels with performance summer tires, Brembo® braking system, Torsen
limited-slip differential, and R-Spec badging. To further reduce cost
and weight, it also eliminates some non-essential convenience equipment
such as: Bluetooth®, automatic headlights, cruise control, trip
computer, chrome interior accents and steering wheel audio controls.
The Genesis Coupe R-Spec will be priced at $23,750 and $3,000 less than
the 2.0T Track model, leaving tuners with extra cash for their own
choice of aftermarket performance upgrades. Appropriately, the R-Spec
will be available in three performance oriented exteriors colors:
Karussell White, Bathurst Black and Tsukuba Red.
R-Spec equipment includes:
· 2.0-liter low-pressure turbocharged intercooled four-cylinder
engine with dual continuously variable valve timing delivering 210-hp,
an estimated 30 mpg EPA highway rating and a top speed of 137 mph
· 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission
· Electronic Stability Control with Traction control, ABS, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist
· 19-inch gunmetal-finish alloy wheels with staggered-width
high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires
(225/40YR19 front, 245/40YR19 rear)
· Brembo® braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front rotors,
42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch ventilated rear
rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
· Track-tuned suspension (higher-rate coil springs,
higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear
stabilizer bar, front strut brace)
· Torsen-type limited-slip differential
· R-Spec badging
· Quick-ratio hydraulic steering (2.7 turns lock-to-lock)
Tell us how that one drives.
Mena
I'd defintely go for a R-spec if I was in the market. But why would they delete the cruise control? Hopefully you can add it back in as an option.
Lear
I think it is price segmentation. To hit a lower price point, they have to take stuff off that the hard core will accept, but others will balk at (and they'll pay a higher price, Hyundai hopes). Just like Premium packages on BMWs.
mlevere1992
I think the price for the performance is good but I can't get past what looks like the front end was sitting under a heater too long and started melting in the middle. Also, I know that dip in the rear window is a unique styling element but it just looks out of place. The styling is just not growing on me.
spin
Please ask them to do a 3.8 R-Spec version. The 2L Turbo R-Spec is ok as but why not have both to better compete with the competition?
Lear
I think the answer is the 3.8 Track at $29,500:
The factory-tuned 3.8 Track model deletes the backup warning system
and chrome front fascia accents from the Grand Touring model, and adds
or substitutes:
· Black leather seating surfaces
· 19-inch gunmetal finish alloy wheels with staggered
high-performance summer-compound Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires
(225/40YR19 front, 245/40YR19 rear)
· Brembo® braking system with 13.4-inch ventilated front
rotors, 42mm four-piston fixed front calipers (red), 13.0-inch
ventilated rear rotors, 32mm+28mm four-piston fixed rear calipers (red)
· Unique track-tuned suspension, higher-rate coil springs,
higher-control shock absorbers, 25mm front stabilizer bar, 22mm rear
stabilizer bar, strut brace
· Torsen-type limited-slip differential
· Aluminum pedals
· Aero wipers
· Rear spoiler
· Black-out front lower fascia
· Lightweight temporary spare with aluminum wheel (T135/80D18)
The 2.0 R model only deletes a few minor options. The price reduction is nice, but as I suggest above, I think it is price segmentation (no way the cost of those options is $2k). You don't make that same move on your top model (3.8 Track), which has more margin.
Ducati Minor
Have to see it in person.
BillS
I want to know about shifter, brakes, steering -- do they feel 'right" or is this a bunch of lame sedan parts tossed into a coupe body?
anisacikal
Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more information? It is extremely helpful and beneficial to your readers.
Pretty Oes Tsetnoc Posted By Oes Tsetnoc Latest Oes Tsetnoc Blog Entry
johnr
I find it somewhat confusing that they named it the Genesis coupe. I expected a parallel to the big Genesis sedan. I don't think the name helps either products and might diminish the perception of the sedan. Should they decide to build a high performance premium coupe they have a problem.
It looks very interesting, especially looking at the content per enthusiast dollar factor. From the images it appears a bit over styled for my taste.
I will be looking for it in the showroom to see how it really looks.
wsd
How does this thing stack up against a Mustang or Camaro (esp. the V6) at similar price levels? Does it offer a cheaper sports car experience than a 370Z? Inquiring minds want to know!
Peter Hoffman
I think the pricing will make it incredibly attractive and competitive but the appearance of it looks very generic. It just looks too much like a Tiburon to me.
Hops98
Recently test drove a 2009 Tiburon, and a 2009 Ford Mustang V-6, Mustang had it all over the Tib. Performance, roominess, handling, the whole 9 yards, put the Mustang up front. Not sure about Genisis, but I would like to drive it.
Marque_1
Design is not bad, maybe a bit too much body sculpting. BUT, why the dipping rear quarter windows! Those alone would lose my purchase.
fastfinger
First it has to BEAT the established cars in the segment - the Mustang and Camaro types - by either offering a hardtop convertible or use the Genesis sedan's great TAU V8 engine. Metal brake pedals never did anything except look bling bling to some folk - - big brakes are nice but a big engine is what the brakes need first! To beat the established leaders - you have to go one jup or maybe two up on them... and so far -- the Mustang/Camaro crowd will not favor the import V6 over am American V8.
stevemcqueen
This car will interest a lot of people, enthusiasts or not. As for me, I am seriously considering it. I have been an admirer of the Subaru WRX but this car trumps it, in my opinion. I love the interior appointments, the sound system, the safety features, the styling, and the value-for-money proposition. It is on top of my purchase list.
webejammin