First Drive: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

In creating the 2010 Genesis Coupe, Hyundai targeted premium-segment benchmarks from BMW and Infiniti, while undercutting their price dramatically.

Ultimately, the formula — which was brilliantly executed with the recent Genesis sedan — fell a bit short when applied to the Genesis coupe; the sporty two-door comes close, but still lacks the precision and refinement of the BMW 3-Series and Infiniti G37.

Even so, the 2010 Genesis Coupe sets an impressive new benchmark for affordable sport coupes — an accomplishment of which Hyundai should be proud. Do we have another candidate for North American Car of the Year?

Model Lineup
The name Genesis refers to Hyundai's new rear-wheel-drive line, and while the sedan and coupe by this name share some technical bits, the similarities end there. The Coupe is a purpose-built, traditional 2+2 sports car. With six current configurations split between two engines, there are plenty of ways to find a Coupe to match your style.

While the entry-level, 2.0-liter turbocharged Genesis Coupe comes bargain-packaged with features including 18-inch wheels, Bluetooth, iPod/USB input and keyless entry, the 2.0T Premium ups the comfort and convenience factor with a power sunroof, 360-watt Infinity sound system and a power driver's seat. Building off the Premium trim, the Track loads up the 2.0T with interior and exterior trim accents, 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, stiffer suspension, HID headlights and a Torsen limited-slip differential.

The V6 Coupe comes in three trims: 3.8, 3.8 GT and 3.8 Track. Unlike the hierarchy found in 2.0T models, the 3.8 editions are designed to be seen as apples and oranges — buy the 3.8 if you need a V6, opt for the GT if you like your luxury, or if you're still looking to fly on back roads, get the Track. A few upscale variations come with all 3.8s, such as standard leather seating and climate control, as well as a backup warning system on the GT.

Mid-model year, Hyundai will offer an additional Coupe, the R-Spec, for serious enthusiasts. It will contain all the performance goodies of the 6-speed 2.0T Track, but without the fat. By deleting the added comfort and convenience features, the R-Spec sheds weight and nearly $3,000 off the sticker price. This is a no-brainer choice for racers and tuners alike.

View Pictures: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Image Gallery

Under the Hood
As denoted by the model names, the Genesis Coupe is available with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four or a 3.8-liter normally aspirated V6 similar to that found in the Genesis sedan. Both engines are mated to a standard 6-speed manual transmission with traction and stability control. Rev-matching automatics with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters are optional on either engine, but the 3.8 automatics pick up an extra gear over the 2.0Ts' 5-speed automatic.

Out of the box, the 2.0T puts down 210 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 223 lb-ft of torque at only 2000 rpm. Although dramatically less powerful, this "World Engine," which shares some architecture with variants produced by Mitsubishi and Chrysler, should be able to easily eclipse the power levels of the V6 with relatively minor aftermarket tinkering. Paired with a roughly 100-pound weight savings, the 2.0T will inevitably be the tuner favorite. For the rest of us, the line-topping V6 produces a stout 306 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 266 lb-ft of torque at 4700 rpm.

Discuss: Is the Genesis Coupe a top-dog sport compact, or a bargain G37?

EPA mileage estimates for the duo are surprisingly frugal. The 2.0T models bring home 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway on the manual and 20/29 mpg with the auto, besting the Honda Civic. Opt for the notably large V6 and ratings drop to 18/26 mpg and 17/26 mpg, respectively. Both engines have been rated for 87 octane, giving owners the choice to either save cash or gain a few ponies with premium fuel.