Hyundai Genesis Coupe: A Lesson in Frugality for the Sports Segment

While the auto industry was cracking under economic pressures in 2008 and sales were down most auto makers were feeling the heat. But while others were scrambling to make their cars more affordable, sporty, refined, and generally as appealing as they could, Hyundai sat back and enjoyed the fruits of its labour. Global sales may have been down by 15.1%, but you’d never guess if you only looked at Hyundai whose sales actually increased by 25.3% in the first quarter of ’09. And all in one sudden flash it became clear that they were no longer the strange, cheap foreign car manufacturer that we’d remembered. Hyundai alone seemed to be gaining valuable ground on the economic front and began muscling into Honda and Toyota’s territory as they accounted for 7.1% of Canadian light vehicle sales in ‘09, 10% if you count its sister company Kia. All this success can be traced back to just one element: the cars. Hyundai was snatching up all the sales coming from the boom in the compact market by offering cheap, efficient, and reliable compacts and sub-compacts like the Elantra and Accent.

And one good turn deserves another as Hyundai broadened its line up in 2008 to include an entry level luxury sedan called the Genesis, which offered something that no one had anticipated in a entry level luxury coming from an economy company, Rear Wheel Drive. The Genesis met with instant success and earned AJAC’s best new luxury car under 50k, Canadian Car of theYear, North American Car of the Year, and Consumer Reports Top Rated Upscale Sedan. Hyundai was on a roll and quickly solidified a reputation for producing high quality vehicles in just about every segment of the market.

2009 Canadian Car of the Year: The Hyundai Genesis Sedan

With the inspiring success of the Genesis, Hyundai decided to make the hit a one-two punch by adding a variant of the luxury sedan to the market that would cause a completely new stir. Making its debut at the 2008 New York International Auto Show, Hyundai planned to release the Genesis Coupe for the 2010 model year in North America. Hyundai claimed its Coupe was a proper Rear Wheel Drive sports car that would compete with the likes of the RX-8, Infinity G37, and even the BMW 3-Series, and although it realistically competed with the Nissan Altima Coupe, Honda Accord Coupe, Civic Si, and Cobalt SS, the Genesis Coupe was no doubt a fierce competitor that went into the ring radiating passion and breathing fire.

A rally version of the Genesis Coupe

The Coupe gained valuable publicity from an ad campaign that allowed individuals to edit footage from a project called “epic lap” in which professional stunt driver and drift champ Rhys Millen passionately lapped a course in the Coupe, and post it to edityourown.com. The best edited version of the epic lap would be shown during the Super Bowl and the editor would receive both a cash prize and their own Genesis Coupe. Since then, the Coupe has appeared on TV in series like Leverage, Burn Notice, and 24.

Meant to be a balance of “Brain and Brawn” as Hyundai puts it, the Genesis Coupe offers a 55/45 weight distribution for more neutral handling on the track, RWD for tossability in the corners, and a variety of engines for versatility in real world driving conditions. The base 2.0L four cylinder is turbo charged and good for 210 horses and 223lb. ft at only 2000rpm that clocks a 0-100km/h time of just 8.3 seconds! The turbo charger is sourced from Mitsubishi, resembling the turbo installed in the Evo X, and provides a smooth charge throughout the powerband. Because power starts at just 2000rpm and hp is maxed out at 6000rpm the power band is rather large in the 2.0T base model. The optional 3.8L naturally aspirated Lambda V6 is sourced from the Genesis sedan and is a step up with 306hp and 266lb. ft. which improve 0-100 time to just over 6 seconds!

The engine turns over at a higher than average rate for highway driving at 2600rpm for 100km/h, although a wider ratio would improve the already adequate 10.1/6.6 city/hwy mileage, its closer than average transmission can also be a boon on the track where torque can be capitalized on in various situations and at higher speeds. Still, the engine can drink both regular unleaded and high octane for added versatility, and the low end torque also means driving in high gear for improved efficiency is a breeze.  Both engines come standard with a 6 speed manual transmission and optional with a 6 speed automatic for an extra $1800 on 3.8s and a 5 speed automatic for $1500 on turbos. Both automatic transmissions come with SHIFTRONIC paddle-shifters that shift quickly and smoothly as far as paddle shifters usually go, and although ST usually discourages automatics, these transmissions might be best for those that have trouble shifting quickly while keeping their focus on the track during a race.

Genesis Coupe with Automatic Transmission and Paddle shifters

Standard features abound on the Genesis Coupe and there’s slight refinement inherited from the Genesis Sedan in the Standard conveniences like A/C, trip computer, Bluetooth with steering mounted controls alongside audio and cruise controls, an iPod input jack located in the centre storage bin, leather wrapped steering wheel and shifter, keyless entry, power locks, windows, and power heated mirrors. And of course standard equipment only gets better if you buy the GT trim which adds 19” alloys, 6.5” touch nav system, Automatic climate control, heated leather seats, 360watt Infinity/AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 10 speaker audio system with a CD changer, a 3 month subscription to XM satellite radio, push button start, HID and auto-leveling headlights, mirror integrated turn signals, and tilt/slide sunroof.

Complimenting all the conveniences are excellent safety features like advanced front, front seat mounted side, and roof mounted curtain airbags, three point pretensioned seat belts, front active head restraints, fog lights, ABS, EBD, ESC and Traction control. The stability and traction controls are especially useful as they help tame the oversteer and traction loss often found in RWD coupes. Also, the auto-leveling headlights are almost as good as adaptive headlights when it comes to keeping the road visible despite bumps or twists. Of course, while riding in the nearly unusable rear seats is both an ergonomic hazard as well as a safety risk, when it comes to peace of mind while driving all that power, the Genesis Coupe doesn’t settle for anything less than its competitors in the front seats.

On the outside Hyundai impresses us by hitting a home run on the first pitch with their Coupe’s styling. The exterior is remarkably handsome for a first attempt at a sports coupe. It has a unique blend of shapes and designs that grab attention with some authority. Staggered standard 18” alloys and optional 19” alloys have an attractive 10 spoke design that compliments the sharp headlights, taillights, and fog lights, and together they give the Coupe an aggressive stance that is fitting for a sports car. The longitudinal mounted engine lengthens the hood’s graceful curves down to the petit front grille that surprisingly doesn’t look out of place in the least. Still there is a lingering notion that the best years for the Genesis coupe’s styling are yet to come. But for the moment, the overall design has great continuity and a unique harmony that is well thought out, and is, dare I say, cool?

From bumper to bumper the Genesis Coupe looks like a true sports coupe

The interior is classic sports coupe; racing inspired, driver oriented with pretty decent front seats and unusable rear seats. But who really cares about the rear seats in a car like this? The front seats are comfortable enough with both manual height and lumbar support adjusters on the driver’s seat and fore and aft adjustable headrests for longer trips on both driver and passenger seats. Visibility is great out of the front and even out of the side windows thanks to a dropped down beltline on the rear side windows that keep the blind spots to a minimum. However, the view out the back is partially obstructed by the high trunk and further spoiled by the trunk lip spoiler. A few things that will bother most buyers are the fact that the steering wheel only tilts and doesn’t telescope, which is strange considering its importance on a sports car, and space is cramped around the center console. As a matter of fact, elbows are bound to hit the center storage bin during shifts.

Although the Genesis Coupe and Sedan share the same first name, a decision that will no doubt confuse many, they are nearly incomparable. One of the most important areas where the Genesis Coupe separates itself from its luxury sedan cousin is in its interior quality. Ergonomics SUCK! The engine and road noise is above average, and although it isn’t loud enough to prompt impulsive use of the 360watt sound system it does need more sound insulation. Furthermore, the center armrest is hard, the door panel armrest is hard, and even the dash is hard. But the most outstanding fouls are the power window, lock, and mirror controls which are mounted to the door in a way that suggests the designer only cared about a racy feel and just stuck them on because they had to go somewhere. Operating any of them is awkward at the least. Still, most won’t buy this car for a plush ride and any hint at the Genesis Sedan’s luxury is misleading.

Similarly, the Genesis Coupe isn’t practical. The trunk only holds 332L of cargo and despite being able to store longer items by folding the rear seats, in order to stow anything substantial like a pair of skis one would either need to move the front passenger seat forward, or fold it down as well. Moreover, the rear seats are only good for throwing jackets or other junk on; shame on anyone that subjects their friends to a ride in them. But, again, no one is going to buy this car because they think it’s practical.

On the track the 2.0L turbo is impressive and offered a better weight balance that resulted in more control through corners and better lap times, but the 3.8L was far from clumsy. Granted one might be tempted by the 3.8L optional engine because of its significantly better acceleration, it might not be worth the cost considering the more than adequate power of the standard turbo charged 2.0. Whichever engine you decide on, if handling is a priority the optional GT suspension package should be on your list. Although the standard setup of MacPherson front struts, and a 5-link independent rear suspension is alright, the GT trim gets you a front strut tower brace, larger front and rear stabilizer bars, stiffer springs, larger bushings, a Torsen LSD, and a Brembo brake system which take the Genesis’ agile nature to a new level. The Brembo brake system is pretty impressive and adds Bridgestone Potenza P225/40VR19 front/ P245/40VR19 rear tires, 13.4/13.0 front/rear ventilated rotors and four-piston monobloc fixed callipers. Actually, considering that the Brembo system costs more if bought aftermarket than the entire GT package, the GT package is a frugal choice for enthusiasts. Still, the ride is punishing on broken or rough pavement, and if you’re looking for a comfortable ride don't even try the Coupe.

Hyundai is one of the best in the business when it comes to warranties, and they make no exceptions for their new sports car. The Genesis Coupe comes with Hyundai’s standard 5 year/100,000km bumper to bumper warranty, which means you can drive this sports coupe carefree for 5 whole years. This already stellar warranty can be lengthened to a whooping 8 years/160,000km for just $2,200! If you’re thinking what we’re thinking, you could sell the Coupe after a few years of fun for better than average market value because it would still be under warranty, that is if you ever plan to sell it.

Oh, but we’ve saved the best for last. Hyundai has pulled off a feat of frugality the likes of which never graced the RWD sport segment until now. The base model Genesis Coupe 2.0T will only cost you $24,495. Although the Coupe is just as good as its competitors and doesn’t really need to undercut them, it does it anyway. And it’s not just sitting at a fairly cheap price; it sincerely takes its competition to the cleaners, everyone one of them, from the Mazda RX-8 ($41,995) and Nissan Maxima ($37,880), to modestly priced FFs like the Honda Accord Coupe ($26,790) and even the Honda Civic Si ($25,990)! By offering a RWD turbo charged sport coupe that costs less than a sporty FWD Honda Civic Hyundai has set the value for money bar even higher, and that’s saying a lot considering they are already market leaders in value for money.

Accordingly, the Genesis Coupe is an impressive first attempt at a sports coupe from Hyundai. The styling is unique and attractive, the engine has enough power to dish out an adrenaline rush and the handling and braking are phenomenal. With pricing sitting just below $25,000 the Genesis Coupe gives buyers some serious incentive to choose Hyundai over other makers. The Genesis Coupe is a purpose built sports car with some serious appeal and performance to match, just don't expect any of the Genesis Sedan's luxury or comfort and you'll be one happy driver.

FT-86: The Return of a Legend

You might be interested in this article if...

1.  You are a sports car enthusiast without a lot of money

2.    You are a fan of the legendary street racing AE-86

3.   You love the purpose build racing design of the MX-5 Miata, but find coupes more appealing

Ever look back on cars from 20+ years ago and wonder, “why don’t they make something like that now”? Many of the cars from the past had unique appeal that just seemed to slip away into history, never to return to the market. The Honda CR-X Si illustrates this well as it disappeared from Honda’s line up, and has only been replaced in spirit by the CR-X inspired Hyundai Veloster. The British Roadster of the 1960s illustrates this phenomenon as well, disappearing from the market in spite of desperate outcries from enthusiasts. However, unlike the CR-X, the British Roadster would be singlehandedly resurrected by the MX-5 Miata 30 years later, and has taken a place in automobile history since. We are about to witness another second coming. The second coming of a car that is perhaps more legendary and more notorious than either the CR-X or the British Roadster, a car that changed the face of both street and track racing in the 1980s – the 1986 Toyota Corolla, aka the AE-86.

The original street racing machine

Lately Toyota has been dreaming about the good old days before Scion, where sports cars didn’t require impressive specs or a massive MSRPs. When sports cars were simpler and racing was about intuition and the feel of your tires holding tight to the road while you tackled corners at the track or on a mountain pass. But Toyota didn’t have the space or manpower to make this dream possible, and so it formed a promising alliance with Subaru to get the job done. Subaru would handle engineering and manufacture the car out of its plant in Gunma Japan, while Toyota would design the car and fund the operation.

The design was inspired by the AE-86 and retains many of its traits, including rear seating, a hatchback, and an FR drive layout. In addition, Toyota had 3 very specific goals to meet with the design: Firstly, it needed to be light weight and efficient. Second, handling ability needed to be maximized while keeping the car affordable. Lastly, it needed to carry 4 people and at least a set of golf clubs. Toyota would name its new sports coupe the FT-86 (FT after Toyota’s pure sport hybrid FT-HS concept, and 86 after the AE-86).

The FT-HS pure sport hybrid concept

The FT-86 will be the world’s first coupe to carry a boxer engine, and the Subaru sourced 2.0L boxer will make 200hp (That’s 100hp/L!) and 151 lb-ft of torque. The FT-86 will also boast a 0-60 time of just seven seconds. And because the 86 only weighs 2662 lb it has a power ratio of 13.31lb/hp, which is even better than the Miata’s 14.5lb/hp. Furthermore, thanks to Toyota’s dual port direct injection technology the boxer redlines at 7500 rpm and boasts 29.17 MPG on premium unleaded.

Subaru Sourced 2.0L Boxer

All that power is channelled through a close ratio 6 speed manual transmission that shifts with precise feeling short throws. An automatic dual clutch transmission is also available for those that want it. The shift points are well timed, smooth and seamless. For those that want more control there are paddle shifters that allow manual gear shifts. In addition to the auto and manual drive modes, a semi-manual mode allows drivers to downshift for corners before returning to auto mode.

The Toyobaru alliance is really aiming to change the world of sports cars, and has been diligent in producing an affordable, purpose built enthusiast’s car that meets all its initial goals. Indeed, Toyota’s Chief engineer Tetsuya Tada said that the FT-86 was meant to be as affordable as possible so enthusiasts could actually buy the car, and that compromises would be necessary. Nevertheless, Toyobaru has found revolutionary ways to maximize value for money with clever engineering. The 86 was designed with a 53/47 front/rear weight distribution and boasts the lowest center of gravity of any production vehicle. This was achieved by capitalizing on the flat shape of the boxer engine, and by placing the engine very low and closer to the center of the car. The engine actually sits at about knee height from the driver, having its center of gravity only 17.7 inches above the ground puts it 1 inch lower than the Porsche Cayman’s! However, this also means the Subaru model won’t have room for AWD.  Next, the 86 uses light 17 inch alloys wrapped in 215/45R17 rubber which reduces unsprung weight and provides more precise handling compared to other less practical, vanity inspired wheel and corresponding elastic bands. The 86 also comes standard with a Torsen LSD to help it push out of corners even faster. To keep the price down, conventional Macpherson front struts and a double wishbone rear suspension systems were used. All this equipment culminates in exquisite handling that has even been compared to the agility of the Mazda MX-5 by many automotive journalists and magazines like Auto Car.

Spy image of Ft-86 testing at the Nurburgring

The premiss for the FT-86 is actually very similar to the Miata’s; if they had sprung for materials and components that would have really optimised the FT-86’s potential it would have been too heavy and too expensive.  The car is further devoid of most driving aids, excluding Electronic Stability Control, which is required by law. A lot like the Miata, the FT-86 relies less on computers and puts the driver back in control of the action.

While on the track automotive journalists describe the 86’s cornering as firmly planted with slight understeer. Because of the balanced tire size, the 86 oozes from between states of traction at its limit and provides ample notice before control is lost. The coupe is very tame despite its RWD and 200 hp. However, once the car hits straighter roads the driver may find himself wishing for an extra 100 hp.

Although Toyobaru didn’t necessarily need to provide sleek styling in their pragmatic coupe, they certainly did. This car looks so good, it’s boarder line pornographic! Its lines are flowing yet disciplined and focused. The coupe’s stance is aggressive but refined and svelte. Everything from the curves in the b-pillarless doors to the extremely well defined, and handsome LED trimmed head, and tail lights looks like they were planned meticulously. No doubt about it, the FT-86 has defined a style all its own and looks absolutely enchanting in black.

Photo from the Geneva Motor Show

But besides its great looks, the design was deliberate and practical. Visibility out the back window is better than one would expect and the overall Coefficient of Drag is only 0.27! To put that into perspective, the Mazda RX-8 has a Coefficient of 0.3.

RX-8, left, and FT-86, right

The good looks don’t stop there though. Although the interior of the FT-86 is sparse on fluffy features and soft touch surfaces, it is driver oriented. Everything from the position of the gages in the cluster and supportive racing styled seats to the position of the shifter and handbrake make driving the FT-86 feel natural and harmonious. Everything the driver touches, save the alloy pedals and fabric seat, is leather wrapped. The steering wheel is tilt and telescopic, and for the most hardcore racers that don’t have a second to look away from the road, automatic climate control. There is even a shift light on the rev counter!

Scanned page from a Toyota Modellista catalogue

In spite of its good looks and performance, the FT-86 isn’t as impractical as one would think. Despite being only 220mm longer than a Miata, there is seating for 4 if you’re willing to squeeze into the backseats. There is also 10 cubic ft of cargo space under the hatch that can be increased by folding the one piece rear seats. And a space saving spare is tucked under the hatch floor. Finally, the coupe doesn’t skimp on safety equipment either and comes standard with VSC, front driver and passenger airbags, and side and rear curtain airbags.

Concepts have been around motor shows for over 2 years now, but the production version will make its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in December. The same model will be available in spring of the 2012 model year and have an MSRP of about $25k. Toyobaru’s sport coupe will be sold in the entry level sports category and compete with models like the Civic Si, Scion tC, and VW GTI.

Rumour has it that a turbo model will be available on the model year following the initial release of the FT-86. Moreover, Subaru’s sibling BRZ (Boxer, RWD, Zenith) model has been designed to accept a convertible top, and an extended wheelbase that might allow a 4 door model. And although these options would satisfy many enthusiasts from North America, Toyobaru has confirmed nothing.

You can learn more about the 86 by checking out the links below, or join the hype and be the first to read news about the FT-86 by signing up with its enthusiasts’ site ft86club.com.

Links to official/teaser videos :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UebLu0-wg54

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caAW1oZXQnc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMYf9StnBoQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrgVsFYXdyQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpNjjIZxuN0&feature=related

Additional Reading:

*Specs Leaked from an official toyota training manual!* http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2096

http://www.roadandtrack.com/tests/impressions/2013-subaru-brz-prototype

http://www.autocar.co.uk/CarReviews/FirstDrives/Toyota-FT-86-2.0/259779/

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/coupes/1112_2013_subaru_brz_prototype_first_drive/

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2013-subaru-brz-sports-car-prototype-drive-car-and-driver-subarus-engineering-toyotas-deep-pockets-page-1

Official Forums:

http://www.ft86club.com/forums/

http://www.subarubrzforum.com/index.php

http://www.fr-sforum.com/