Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept
The gloves are off at Hyundai, determined to convince the world that it's ready to go toe-to-toe with some of the biggest manufacturers in the industry, is showing off its sporty new Genesis Coupe concept that is to become a reality in the spring of 2009.
The Genesis Coupe, despite circulating rumors, will not succeed the Tiburon since Hyundai has no plans to stop production of its front-drive sports coupe. Instead it will enter Hyundai's line up as an entry-level rear-driver powered either by a base turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, or more powerful all-aluminum 3.8-liter V-6 that is estimated to make over 300-bhp, and over 250 lb-ft of torque.
The curvaceously raked body design is said to have been inspired by LeMans race cars, drift cars and of all other things, some die cast models by Jada Toys Dub City. Extensive use of carbon fiber can be seen throughout the entire body including the hood, roof, front fascia, rocker panels and various other details. This is no doubt an expensive setup which will most likely not make it into the sub-$30,000 production version.
Mated to either a 6-speed automatic or ZF-made 6-speed manual transmission, power will then be transmitted through a limited-slip differential and ultimately to a pair of the large 20-in. polished aluminum wheels. Hankook Ventus tires measuring 255/35ZR-20 in front and 275/35ZR-20 at the rear, are assigned the duty of managing traction under acceleration and cornering, and when the 4-piston monobloc Brembo brakes are called upon, stopping.
This 2 + 2 seater measuring 183.7-in. long, 74.9-in. wide, 54.5-in. tall and with a wheelbase of 111.0-in, upon entering the market in 2009 will have a specific mission, according to V.P. John Krafcik, and that is to "deliver a driving experience that challenges cars like the Infiniti G37, at prices more like a Mitsubishi Eclipse."
