During the past few weeks I have driven several different Hyundai models, including a Genesis Sedan R-Spec, Azera, Equus and Elantra GT. None were a disappointment – I could see myself owning any one of them if they met my needs. However there was one model that really impressed me – the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec M/T.
On the surface you might just think it’s a two-door coupe version of the Genesis sedan. However, it’s smaller and much sportier than the sedan – about the only thing in common is that both are rear-drive cars. The 2013 Genesis Coupe received a substantial facelift that gives it a more aggressive look than before. Overall it is has handsome lines more akin to the Nissan 370Z than an American pony car.
There are several Genesis Coupe models to choose from; with either a 274 hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or a 348 hp 3.8-liter V-6, both of which are considerably more powerful than in the 2012 models. Then there’s a choice of a 6-speed manual or 8-speed Shiftronic auto transmission.
The model that’s most appealing to those of us who enjoy driving is undoubtedly the R-Spec model, which is only offered with the manual transmission, but is available with either engine. With the turbo-four it’s a competitor to the Mazda Miata and Subaru BRZ (or Scion FR-S) with which it was compared in a track test a few weeks ago.
I have not drive the four-cylinder model but judging by the comments I suspect most of us would rather drive the R-Spec model with the V-6 engine. In many ways its most direct competitors is the V-6-powered Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger or Ford Mustang. It’s smaller and lighter than them with much the same power. None of these share their name with a sedan so it’s a shame in way that the Genesis Coupe appears, in name, to be just a sleeker version of a sedan. It really deserves its own name.
As soon as I put my foot down on the gas pedal I liked the car, as the engine sounds wonderful. Hyundai has incorporated an intake sound induction pipe to purposely transmit engine sounds into the cockpit. In no time you’re hitting the redline and, sadly, the engine cuts power as a safety measure. At first it’s annoying but since the engine revs so freely it’s good protection – after all you don’t want to blow the engine.
An additional enthusiast’s “tool” is a torque meter in the center stack. Ironically it’s located next to a fuel consumption meter and they both rapidly go in the same direction when you’re driving hard. Talking of fuel consumption the on-board computer showed I averaged 21 mpg, which matches the combined EPA figure.
The R-spec model has stiffer suspension than the base models but I did not find it objectionable even on rough roads. The hydraulic steering was to my liking giving good on-road feel. Although Hyundai has improved the manual transmission I found it was still too rubbery for my liking. On occasion I was not sure which gear it was in and even ended up in reverse a couple of times when looking for first gear.
Part of the R-Spec’s appeal is a nominal amount of complexity has been saved by removing some accessories, such as cruise control. I didn’t miss it as I rarely use cruise control as I don’t like the loss of control. However, I think it’s the first car I’ve driven without that almost standard feature in a long long time.
Bottom line – I liked the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec. It’s fun to drive, it looks good and the engine sounds wonderful. At a reasonable price of $29,625 it’s certainly worth considering as an alternative to a V-6-powered Camaro or Mustang, but not if you hanker after a V-8. Could Hyundai squeeze the 429 hp V-8 from the Genesis Sedan R-Spec in the Coupe? Just a thought.
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