"It's never been in the plan," Johnson said. "There was some internal discussion early on, but since we unveiled the coupe in New York, there's been no talk."
Although IL sources say the project was originally on Hyundai's future product calendar, Johnson is adamant that a Genesis convertible was never part of an official plan.
"The coupe wasn't developed to be a convertible from the ground up," he said. "It was developed as a global car. The wind in your hair doesn't work in Korea, and there's not enough volume in the U.S."
Johnson also said there are no plans for any future Hyundai convertibles, although our sources say that the use of retractable hardtops has already been slated for future Hyundai products, while its Korean sibling Kia will use fabric soft tops in its future lineup.
Much like the Audi A5 and Infiniti G37, a Genesis convertible would have been a likely evolution for the Korean coupe. Infiniti is already using a hardtop for its 2009 G37, and a Hyundai convertible would have provided a cheaper alternative to the Japanese and German brands.
Meanwhile, the rear-wheel-drive Genesis Coupe will hit dealers in late March.
Inside Line says: Hyundai is missing the boat on this one. The Ford Mustang Convertible continues to be a strong seller, and some affordable competition from Asia could take some of that market. — Kelly Toepke, News Editor
Add A Comment »