Trackside with the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

The question is, has Hyundai hit a home run with the new Genesis Coupe 2.0T and 3.8?

Antuan Goodwin

April 24, 2009 12:34 p.m. PT

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It's here

After much fanfare and even more waiting, the 2010 Genesis Coupe is finally available on North American roads. But was it worth the wait? We take the Genesis Coupe 2.0T and 3.8 to the track to find out.

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Coupe 2.0T Track

The Genesis Coupe 2.0T Track is really in a class of its own, as the market is pretty much devoid of small, inexpensive RWD sports coupes.

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Track package goodies

As our model was of the Track trim level, our Coupe receives larger 19-inch tires shod in sticky summer rubber, Brembo brakes, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and stiffer spring rates for more controlled body movement.

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Turbocharged power plant

Under the hood is a 2.0-liter turbocharged-four that makes 210 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque with minimal turbo lag.

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Tackling the corkscrew

In Track trim, the Genesis Coupe exhibits a good amount of grip and shows that Hyundai has come quite a long way in the handling department. Power is also good, but in a vehicle this size, we'd like a few more ponies.

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Traction control

The Genesis' traction control system is among the more intrusive on the market, cutting power dramatically when the slightest bit of slip is detected. While this may be a boon to drivers on the street, at Laguna Seca it could be downright scary. Fortunately, the Genesis offers plenty of grip without it.

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3.8-liter V-6

At 306 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, the 3.8-liter V-6 of the appropriately named Genesis Coupe 3.8 is the best engine for the chassis. Power delivery is smooth and strong, and makes for much more dramatic acceleration out of corners.

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Cabin tech

The Genesis doesn't offer much in the way of tech options because most of the good stuff is standard. Bluetooth hands-free, USB and auxiliary inputs, MP3-compatible CD-player, and XM radio are all standard at this trim level. Based on our limited first listen, the 10-speaker Infinity audio system sounds great.

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Is it a winner?

The Genesis Coupe 2.0T fills a niche that's gone empty for far too long on American roads: the inexpensive true sports coupe. While it's a bit low on the power, there's enough to get the job done.

Meanwhile, the Coupe 3.8 finds itself dangerously close to some stiff competition, such as the Nissan 370Z and Mazda RX-8, and holds up remarkably in their company.