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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  Amazing Coupe for the $ - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By sponge - October 11 - 4:13 pm

  Was trying to decide between G37 and BMW 328...was driving by the Hyundai dealership and decided I would check out the GCoupe just for kicks. Wow, I was immediately impressed. While its not a G37 and its not a BMW, it is pretty darn close..but way cheaper. Given the uncertainty in the economy, I thought maybe its best if I save some money this time around. I have not been disappointed. If it didnt have the Hyundai emblem, people would be paying big $ for this. Hyundai has definitely upped the ante with this one.

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  I would not buy this car again. - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By connien - October 5 - 2:40 pm

  I love the style of this car as do many people. That said my particular car has computer/electrical issues. I have had to have the radio replaced twice, an amplifier replaced, the driver door button replaced twice, and the push button start had an occasional "interrupt" in the brake connect that kept the car from starting quite a few times. Now these may seem minor, but somehow the computer/electrical system is damaging components in the car! Im very worried about what might be next. I have heard from another owner that his traction control siezed and caused him to have an accident. Hyundai replaced his car but the new one has issues too! Nothing worse than electrical issues.

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  Amazing car - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By flashgordondayton - October 4 - 5:20 pm

  I bought my genesis coupe a year ago and I still get asked what kind of car is that? Driving is amazing Power is great No problems Id buy another one in a minute

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  2010 genesis cpe-wait for 2011 - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By cindy - September 6 - 10:00 am

  I have had my car about three months. I had to take in shop for bluetooth microphone to be replaced. Now I have sputtering, dying, and one time the radio wouldnt even turn on. I love driving it. I maybe get 20 mpg in town. the handling is great, I customized mine and get lots of looks but notoriety is wearing off more with each problem.

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  Genesis Coupe 2.0T - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By Ed - May 31 - 4:10 pm

  Just picked up at the dealer yesterday, traded in a 2009 Sonata, the Sonata is a well made luxery family sedan but when my new Genesis Coupe turned the corner I said to my wife this is a Hyundai? From first glimpse you can tell this car is special. Turn the key and the motor purrs like a big cat. It handles like a dream and stops on a dime. This car is for anyone who ever wanted a nice sports car without the big ticket price. Hyundai has scored a winner here!

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  Great Ride! - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By jason_brzuchalski - April 13 - 10:23 pm

  Hands down, an awesome vehicle at a great price. The genesis coupe V6 Track has plenty of power and stylish looks. Heads are always turning when I pull up to a stop light. So far, I have not been disappointed with the vehicle. It performs as well as it sounds when I punch the accelerator. In the words of Ferris Bueller, "If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up."

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  Awesome drive - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By AIRFORCE - March 15 - 11:23 am

  Out of all the sports cars Ive had, the genesis is definitely nothing short of awesome. I am in love with mine and encourage anyone who is in the market for an affordable sports car, definitely take a look at the Hyundai genesis coupe. You will love it.

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  This is a Hyundai? - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By DMW - March 10 - 2:33 am

  "Thats a Hyundai?" That question I get asked almost every single day. The exterior design is exceptional with the Track spoiler, 19" wheels, and those red Brembo brakes. The interior is nicely put together as well. The touch screen Navigation is in a good spot as well. Performance is not blistering, but youre faster than 95% of the cars on the road. Things I like are the HID lights, the voice control, and the confirmation beep that tells you youre engaged in R, and leather everything. I dislike how there is no memory seats, no telescope steering wheel, no digital MPH display option, no back-up camera, only 1 level for Heated Seats, and the lack of smoothness in the shifter.

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  Love it within limits - 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By Curtis - March 4 - 10:30 pm

  At $27k OTD, the 3.8 Grand Touring is a fantastic car if bought for the right reasons. The suspension and seats are very firm (yes, even non- Track versions)- this, coupled with road noise, can make long trips tiring. Performance, handling, and visibility are top-notch and the interior is well appointed with excellent design, fit, and finish. Nav w/ integrated stereo is awesome for Ipod/music control but screen is a touch too small for the nav. The clutch and 6-spd are VERY quirky making the car very difficult to drive smoothly- would DEFINITELY recommend the automatic even though I am a 6-spd lover. Overall, VERY fun to drive around town but not a long-distance cruiser. Would buy it again.

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  I LOVE my new Genesis Coupe! - 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
  By daunen - February 15 - 11:50 pm

  This car is beautiful. One guy even asked me if it was a Jag. I just laughed, because not only is my car as pretty as a Jag, it cost a whole lot less! I traded my Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT convertible, and while the Genesis isnt quite as comfortable or feels as substantial, it was an excellent choice. The 4-cylinder is surprisingly responsive and really quick if I floor it. That being said, its still a 4-cylinder and doesnt have that nice little rumble that a larger engine does. However, I am overwhelmingly happy with this car. Did I mention it is BEAUTIFUL?? ;-D