Overview & Reviews

Hyundai sells two cars under the Genesis name, but they could hardly be more different. The softly sprung Genesis sedan is a luxurious shot across the bow of high-end European and Japanese carmakers. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe, on the other hand, is a serious rear-wheel-drive sport coupe that gives more established performance marques a run for their money.

Available with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a naturally aspirated V6, the Genesis Coupe presents typically impressive Hyundai value, but with a high-performance edge. Sending power to the rear wheels makes for a superior driving experience, and the Genesis Coupe also boasts distinctive styling and ample feature content. These virtues make Hyundai's taut two-door one of our favorite affordable performance cars.

Current Hyundai Genesis Coupe
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is available in six trim levels: 2.0T, 2.0T R-Spec, 2.0T Premium, 3.8 R-Spec, 3.8 Grand Touring and 3.8 Ultimate.

Power is provided by either a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine ("2.0T") or a 3.8-liter V6. The turbo-4 makes 274 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, while the V6 cranks out 348 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. For the base 2.0T, Hyundai offers either a six-speed manual (with hill-start assist) or an eight-speed automatic (with rev-matching downshifts and manual shift control). The R-Spec trim is manual only, while the Premium level is automatic only. The V6 models follow suit: a choice of manual or automatic for the Ultimate trim, manual only in the R-Spec, and automatic only for the Grand Touring.

Hyundai's reputation for generous standard equipment continues, as even in base 2.0T trim standard features include 18-inch wheels, keyless ignition and entry,  automatic climate control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and USB/iPod integration. The performance-focused R-Spec loses a few luxuries (including keyless ignition), but adds 19-inch wheels with summer tires, Brembo brakes, firmer suspension tuning, a limited-slip rear differential and front sport seats. The 3.8 R-Spec gets the same upgrades.

Instead of the R-Spec's performance add-ons, the 2.0T Premium adds perks such as a sunroof, rear parking sensors, a power driver seat, the Blue Link telematics system, a navigation system and an upgraded audio system. The Grand Touring and Ultimate trims further add niceties like leather upholstery, heated front seats and rear parking sensors.

In testing, a V6-powered Hyundai Genesis Coupe ran the 0-60-mph sprint in a quick 5.3 seconds. The 2.0T did it in 6.5 seconds. The 2.0T's lighter weight, however, makes for a slightly more balanced driving experience. That said, either version provides the engaging and athletic driving dynamics expected from a well-engineered, rear-wheel-drive sport coupe. Steering response is quick and crisp, balance is excellent and body roll is kept nicely in check. On the other hand, the ride in R-Spec and Ultimate trims is a bit rough due to their firmer suspensions and bigger wheels, so make sure you go over some bumps on a test-drive.

Inside, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe has relatively high-quality materials with good fit and finish. The driver seat has ample bolstering and provides a low, cockpit-like driving position. Buyers should know that the small backseat is strictly for children. Overall, though, the Genesis Coupe is a winner in the South Korean carmaker's lineup, helping to further define it as a value leader in both luxury and performance cars.

Used Hyundai Genesis Coupe Models
The Genesis Coupe debuted for 2010 in seven trim levels, which are for the most part similar to those of the current car. Key exceptions would be the "Track" trims – the 2.0T version was dropped after the first model year, while the 3.8 version was eventually replaced by the Ultimate for 2014. Originally, the 2.0T's turbo-4 produced 210 hp, while the 3.8-liter V6 produced 306 hp. The available automatic transmissions were different as well, with a five-speed paired to the 2.0T and a six-speed for the 3.8.

The most notable changes occurred for 2013. Front-end styling became more aggressive, the eight-speed automatics were introduced and both engines received their current outputs. That year also saw revised, sharper steering and the availability of a telescoping steering column. A year later saw the addition of keyless ignition and entry, hill-start assist and rev-matching downshifts for automatic transmissions.

User Reviews:

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  Everything I Thought It Would Be, But... - 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By southerngent63 - August 6 - 9:14 pm

  Let me begin by saying that this is one of my favorite cars. Ive owned 14 over 30+ years so I have a good personal database. It is lightning fast, especially in "manual mode". Theres the slightest lag at launch in full automatic but if youre racing youre going to be using the paddle shifters anyway. (I dont race, but I do love one particular freeway on ramp.) It might not be a work of art, per se, but the design lets you know up front that this is a fun car. The interior is about as comfortable as you might imagine a sport-tuned suspension would allow, which is to say not overly. Everything is well laid-out, easy to use and unobtrusive. Overall, I love it. But keep reading...

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  Great first car. - 2011 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By mrgovenator - July 31 - 4:58 am

  This is a great first purchase. On the used market it hard to beat the value of these cars. You get so much for so little. You get a well laid out interior. Some material quality is questionable, such as the some cheap leather, but most the plastics are soft touch or have a rubber coating. And the exterior is gorgeous in my opinion. You get a great power plant under the hood, that gives other cars of this price a run for the money. Only real issue is the 6 speed transmission, it feels cheap and clunky. Can you live with it daily though? For me, yes. The total value out weighs this one problem. The seats hold you in place very well, and feel nice for the price point.

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  Hyundais moving up in the world - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By Kevin - July 24 - 8:26 pm

  Although Ive only had mine for a little while, I can still say that the Genesis Coupe is a very impressive effort by Hyundai. Honda, Toyota, and even BMW are probably going have to sharpen their pencils in response to this car. After driving several competitors (and wincing at their prices), I stumbled onto the Coupe. Even if you dont factor in its lower price, the Hyundai is hard to beat: great style, good fuel economy (on regular gas!), just about every option youd expect (with the Grand Touring option), not to mention terrific power and handling - it all adds up to a great car. Ill admit that time will tell when it comes to resale value, but for now, Ill just enjoy it...

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  KDM power - 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By kultureshok - July 17 - 6:18 am

  rarely do i ever write reviews but i was so compelled to write one for the 2013 genesis 2.0t. i see a ton of mixed reviews at least for the 2.0t. The 2.0t is an extremely fun car for 25k. Power from the 4 banger is more than adequate if youre not an enthusiast or a tuner. Car receives a ton of looks, love the fact that its not a common car on the road yet, it gives you a sense of exclusivity. Handling is good can take corners relatively well, but by no means is it on the same level as an FRS/BRZ. i see a lot of concerns and complaints about the waste gate on the turbo rattling, my genesis has about 2500 with no issue so far (knocks on every piece of wood known to mankind) overall pleased

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  Genesis Coupe 6 spd Experience - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By Bob Cataldo - May 27 - 12:46 pm

  I have had my Genesis now for a little over a month. Bottom line is that it has a great sports car feel at a price of a "regular" car. I have owned Hondas and BMWs for years. Nothing drives like a BMW but very expensive when the warranty expires. Hondas are rock solid but a bit pricey. I compared the Genesis and Civic SI. Hyundai was unknown to me as I have never owned but the extra warranty (5yr,50K) and Assurance program really made me give it a shot. I am glad I did as I really enjoy driving the car. So far so good as the quality seems outstanding and nothing, even minor, to report. Time will tell. Good job Hyundai...the Coupe is great value & performance in one beautiful package!

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  Proud Genesis Owner - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By rbnesp1993 - May 10 - 1:33 pm

  After previously owning 2 mustangs, I am a believer, this auto can do it all. The 4 with the turbo can get up and go, never thought I would own another Hyundai, but this car is tight, quality interior accessories, quality in all aspects. If you can purchase this vehicle, you will be surprised, better yet, just take one out for a test drive, apply the throttle, hello.

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  Just purchased! - 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By garochristian - May 2 - 12:13 am

  I purchased my 2013 Hyundai Genesis coupe two days ago and I absolutely love it. Naturally, you hear that this is a great value, and it indeed is! Lots of power, decent fuel economy, purrs when you drive it, and it turns a lot of heads. Even the base model is more than adequate in terms of interior styling and standard features. I put 300 miles in these two days of owning this vehicle, and so far, I have yet to have any complaints or concerns. I love this car!

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  Gotta love this car - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By kandb - May 1 - 2:20 am

  Coming up on 4,000 miles and this car is too much fun! We stayed away from the manual after a test drive and went with the 3.8 auto GT. The track was more fun to drive but this is also our commuter so we compromised for a bit of comfort. No regrets, the auto trans is close, quick and smooth. The car is a definite head turner, its funny watching people coming closer to see what it is and then shaking their head in disbelief when they see HYUNDAI.

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  Very Good Value - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By swiler - April 9 - 7:50 am

  Genesis coupe may not win any awards for practicality, but its a thrill to drive. Steers like a race car. On snow, this car handles better with rear wheel drive than some cars with front wheel drive. Must be because front tires are narrower than rear tires, and light weight engine causes center of gravity to be closer to rear traction wheels.

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  Love my Hyundai Genesis Coupe! - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By Richard Hardina - March 24 - 10:46 am

  Have owned my Genesis Coupe for more than 1 year and still get stares from other drivers! This beauty is really FUN to drive! Had a mechanical issue with the Electronic Stability Control light but dealer provided a free loaner and took care of the problem. I cant help looking back at my Genesis Coupe every time I walk away from it! For as my neighbor said: "When they designed the Genesis Coup[e they sure got it RIGHT!" Never would have considered buying a 300+ horsepower car until I saw it up close and in person. Im not a lead-foot, and have experienced a consistent 27 miles per gallon (even though its an automatic)! An amazing car for an amazingly low price! Thanks, Hyundai!