Following the teaser sketches Hyundai released of the Concept Genesis rear wheel drive coupe of couple of weeks ago, the Korean automaker has revealed the car at the LA Auto Show.
Not only does the car look super hot, but the numbers suggest that this could be the sports car that sends Hyundai on it’s rise through the performance car world. A rear wheel drive 2+2 boasting 300 horsepower will not only keep owners of aging Tiburon’s in the Hyundai fold, but will likely draw all sorts of new buyers into the showrooms.
More photos and Hyundai press release after the break
CONCEPT GENESIS COUPE HIGHLIGHTS
Second rear-wheel drive performance car from Hyundai
300+ horsepower from enhanced 3.8-liter V6 from Genesis sedan
The production version of the sports coupe arrives in the spring of 2009
The Sonic Orange concept is complemented by a Ballistic Black carbon fiber hood, roof and ground effects for reduced weight. Strong hints of the production version are highlighted in its “Z” bodylines and powerful curves. When the production sports coupe arrives, it likely will be the most affordable 300+ horsepower car on the market, and the most dynamic performance car yet from Hyundai.
“Concept Genesis Coupe is the most thrilling, most emotional Hyundai yet,” said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. “When it hits the market in early 2009, we aim to deliver a driving experience that challenges cars like Infiniti G37, at prices more like Mitsubishi Eclipse.”
DESIGN PROCESS
“The mission for Concept Genesis Coupe was to create a pure performance car with a design that would capture the imagination of hardcore automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Piaskowski, chief designer at the Hyundai Design Center in Irvine, Calif. “With its aggressive look from just about any angle, I think we have been able to do that.”
The powerful curves, surface detail and “Z” bodyside lines come straight from the same underlying inspiration that guided two earlier, well-received concepts: the HCD9 Talus and the HCD8 sports tourer. The undulating beltline borrowed from the Talus adds intrigue while enhancing outward visibility for both the driver and rear passengers. The HCD8 sports tourer’s sensual body forms influenced the overall design theme while also providing direction for the concept’s assertive headlight and taillight designs.
The look of Concept Genesis Coupe was in part inspired by LeMan’s race cars, drifters and by Jada Toys Dub City™ die cast vehicles. The front and rear stance of the Concept Genesis Coupe can be described as sinister.
“Beauty and danger co-exist in the design of the Concept Genesis Coupe,” said Eric Stoddard, senior creative designer. “When viewed from a distance, the car is beautiful to look at. But up close it can appear a bit menacing and even a little intimidating.”
The concept’s rocker panels are drawn close to the ground making the bodysides extra thick and the daylight opening extremely thin, allowing the wheels to be slammed up into bulging fenders. To complete the aggressive sports car look, the depth between the fenders and the greenhouse has been maximized.
Three large heat extractors sculpted into the hood are designed to cool just about any powerful engine. When the concept becomes reality, three large openings in the front fascia will allow for better engine breathing. The dual exhaust tips integrated into the rear fascia repeat the design theme of the front cooling ducts and are surrounded by a large carbon fiber air diffuser.
An arching roofline and tapering greenhouse highlight the exterior profile and emphasize the car’s broad shoulders and wide stance. Concept Genesis Coupe rides on 20-inch polished aluminum deep-dish wheels with Hankook 255/35 ZR front tires and 275/35 ZR rear tires.
CONCEPT GENESIS COUPE SPECIFICATIONS
· Configuration: Front engine, rear-wheel drive sports coupe
· Wheelbase: 2,820 mm / 111 inches
· Overall length: 4,666 mm / 183.7 inches
· Overall width: 1,902 mm / 74.9 inches
· Overall height: 1,386 mm / 54.5 inches
· Wheels: 20-inch, five-spoke
· Tires: Hankook 255/35 ZR front and 275/35 ZR rear
PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION CAR DETAILS
· Engine type: V6
· Estimated horsepower: more than 300 horsepower
· Estimated torque: more than 250 lb. ft.
· Displacement: 3.8 liters
· Block material: high pressure die cast aluminum
· Cylinder head material: aluminum
· Valvetrain: Dual Over Head Cam (DOHC)
· Valve timing: continuous variable valve timing
· Estimated 0-60 mph: under 6 seconds
· Transmission type: 6-speed manual
· Front brakes: Brembo, 340 mm disc, twin-piston calipers
· Rear brakes: Brembo, 330 mm disc, twin-piston calipers
· Limited slip differential
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I will definitly be keeping tabs on the Genesis and if they keep it as close to the design as possible I will most definitly consider purchasing my first Hyundai!
I like what I see & read on this vehcle. If it comes w/some of the options of the sedan (i.w Lexicon stereo, HID Xenon lamps, etc) and can perform as well as destined, I’m interested. Now if they offer a limited model (i.e GTR) with a V/8, bigger front brakes (i.e 4 or 6 piston calipers & 14″ rotors), stiffer suspension (preferrably adjustable settings) w/oil reservoirs, I’m definately interested.
I love it. i love how it looks and love the car details. if it is true what im looking at and reading, i will definately trade in my LANCER for a GENESIS. if it is cheaper of course!