2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe: Road Test

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 

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  • MSRP: $22,000 - $32,000
  • Invoice: $20,930 - $30,010

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Our road test for the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe help you decide if a 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
7 7 8 8 5.5

Four-cylinder models exhibit zippy acceleration with minor turbo lag. The V6 is stronger all-around, but some testers believe it doesn't seem as eager as the powertrains in some sporty coupe rivals. The manual shifter is notchy, and clutch engagement is far from smooth on Track models. Non-Track versions have more agreeable shifter and clutch action. The V6's automatic is responsive; upshifts are smooth in automatic mode and prompt when using steering-wheel paddles in manual mode. No 4-cylinder automatic models have been made available for evaluation.

FUEL ECONOMY

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
6 6 5 5 4.4

In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission 4-cylinder averaged 21.4 mpg. Manual-transmission V6 versions averaged 22.1 mpg in mostly highway driving. Automatic-transmission V6 test cars averaged 19.3-20.5 mpg with even city/highway use. All Genesis Coupes use regular-grade gas.

RIDE QUALITY

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
4 3 4 3 3.7

Non-Track models have a buttoned-down ride that can be stiff over sharp bumps. On rough surfaces, some coarse feedback and vibrations can occasionally be felt through the steering wheel. Track models' stiffer suspension and 19-inch wheels make for a rough ride over most road imperfections.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
8 9 8 9 6.3

All Genesis coupes are nimble and well-balanced, with good grip and minimal body lean in turns. The steering is communicative and direct, but its turning radius is a bit wide for the class. Brakes, are strong, smooth, and progressive. Track models have more aggressive suspension tuning and brakes, which further minimize body lean and increase stopping power.

QUIETNESS

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
4 4 5 5 3.3

Genesis Coupe is biased more towards sportiness than serenity, but it's never unpleasantly loud. The V6 growls during acceleration but settles down nicely while cruising. The 4-cylinder is noisier, with a slight turbo whistle during acceleration. Wind rush is fairly well muted, but road and tire noise are prominent.

CONTROLS

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
7 7 7 7 5.2

Shrouded gauges have clear white-on-black markings and are easy to see. Audio and climate controls are large, clearly labeled, and well-placed.

DETAILS

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
6 6 6 6 4.8

The Genesis Coupe's interior is notably downmarket from its luxury-oriented sedan sibling. The cabin is a well-assembled mix of padded surfaces and commonplace plastic that's on-par with most class competitors. Dashboard controls move with precision. The 3.8's standard leather upholstery brings a slightly classier ambiance.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
6 6 6 6 4.6

Space is adequate overall, though tall drivers might wish for a bit more headroom, especially on models equipped with the sunroof. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with good bolstering. The seating position is quite low-slung, forcing a deep drop into the seats. The steering column tilts but is not telescopic, making it difficult for some drivers to tailor an ideal position. Overall visibility is very good for a sporty coupe, thanks in part to well-placed mirrors and generously sized quarter windows. The rear window is good-sized as well, but it's also sharply raked and prone to distracting package-shelf reflections in bright sunlight. The Track models' trunk-mounted spoiler slightly interferes with the view aft, but is not distracting.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
2 2 2 2 1.6

Suitable only for small children; headroom and legroom are very limited, and entry and exit require twisting and squeezing.

CARGO ROOM

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
2 2 2 2 2.6

Trunk space is stingy, with a small aperture and shallow floor. The rear-seat cargo pass-through doesn't help much. In-cabin small-items storage is average for the class.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
7 7 6 6 5.4

Hyundai's first rear-wheel-drive performance car offers compelling performance at competitive prices. The rakish body shape brings with it the typical passenger and cargo space compromises, and the overall driving personality is not as invigorating as some class rivals. Still, among rival sporty/performance cars, the Genesis Coupe is a well-rounded machine that strikes a good balance among acceleration, affordability, ride comfort, and handling.

Total Score

2.0T, manual 2.0T Track 3.8 Grand Touring, automatic 3.8 Track, manual Class Average
59 59 59 59 47.4

Total Score: 59

Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars

Low Score
44
Average Score
47
High Score
70

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