2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe - Review

Hyundai’s new range of rear-wheel drive vehicles has proven a hit with media and consumers alike, particular due to their sharp dynamics, tasteful styling and affordable pricing.

How affordable you ask? Well the latest 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe starts at just $24,250.

While that is a significant increase over the $22,250 starting price of the 2012 model, the latest 2013 Genesis Coupe brings a lot to the table and is still quite the bargain considering the level of performance and technology you get.

Yes, the Genesis Coupe has come a long way since its launch just three years ago, with the latest model getting fresh new styling, a revamped interior, more powerful engines and a paddle-shifted eight-speed--yes, eight speeds--automatic transmission as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual. That alone makes the Genesis Coupe a standout against rivals like the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang and even the Nissan 370Z, but there’s even more to like.

Another advantage of the Genesis Coupe is its engine lineup, which offers customers a sweet turbocharged 2.0-liter four-banger as the base unit. This engine is rated at 274 horsepower (64 more than for 2012) and 275 pound-feet of torque (on premium fuel) and when matched with Hyundai’s in-house developed eight-speed automatic returns a fuel economy of 20/31 mpg city/highway.

There’s loads of potential with this engine for anyone considering modifying their car though a newcomer for 2013, the Scion FR-S, does pose as a threat with its $24,930 starting price. The FR-S is disadvantaged somewhat, however, due to its naturally-aspirated engine versus the Genesis Coupe’s turbo.

At the other end of the spectrum, the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe also offers buyers a direct-injected 3.8-liter V-6, which is rated at 348 horsepower (42 more than for 2012) and 295 pound-feet of torque and returns a fuel economy of 18/28 mpg city/highway when equipped with the automatic transmission.

But the changes aren't restricted to powertrains. Hyundai has also tweaked the suspension and added new low-velocity-control suspension dampers. The sportier R-Spec and Track models get a Torsen limited-slip differential, and on all models the Genesis Coupe keeps hydraulic, rpm-sensing rack-and-pinion steering, now recalibrated and with a quicker ratio. Disc brakes are fitted all ‘round.

Inside, high-quality materials and metal accents add a sporty and modern touch to the  interior, while the standard multi-gauge located on the center fascia is certainly a welcome addition to the performance driver.

Check out our first drive report for a closer look at the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe’s driving performance, and for a rundown of all the specs head over to our sister site The Car Connection for the full review.