What is it?
2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe R-Spec
What's special about it?
Rear-wheel drive, a six-speed manual transmission, 210 horses from a turbocharged four-cylinder, Brembo brakes and a limited-slip differential — and it's only $23,750.
If you don't see the appeal of these features and this price, then you aren't the target buyer for the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe R-Spec.
Hyundai was looking to attract the biggest group of enthusiasts it could with this version of the Genesis, so it started with the base model, stripped out a few standard features to reduce costs and save weight, then added in some of the performance hardware from the top-of-the-line V6 model.
So choosing the R-Spec means no Bluetooth, cruise control or steering-wheel audio controls. Hyundai also deleted the chrome interior trim and onboard trip computer.
Once that cost was taken out, features like 19-inch alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A summer performance tires (225/40R19 front, 245/40R19 rear) could be added back in. The R-Spec also gets a sport suspension with retuned springs and dampers along with front (25mm) and rear (22mm) sway bars and a strut tower brace.
The upgraded Brembo brakes feature four-piston fixed calipers at each wheel, and the ventilated rotors measure 13.4 inches in front and 13 inches in back. The limited-slip differential is a Torsen unit if you care to know.
Hyundai didn't strip every feature out of this Genesis coupe. You still get basic stuff like power windows, keyless entry and air-conditioning. There's a six-speaker audio system with a dedicated iPod hookup and leather-wrapped steering wheel, too.
Inside Line says: Here it is, enthusiasts: an affordable, rear-wheel-drive coupe that isn't a Mustang. Now go out and buy it or you'll never see another one ever again. — Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor
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davesuton says:
03:01 AM, 10/28/2009
Why buy that when a Mustang/Camaro/Challanger are all better looking and have a V8? Hyundai should take this one back to Korea.