2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

The Hyundai Genesis, now in its fourth year, is growing up. This affordable, good-looking rear-wheel-drive sport coupe gets a refresh for 2013, including a redesigned front end, more powerful engines, a new 8-speed automatic transmission and a longer list of standard features. The most significant update is under the hood, where a choice of two engines and a larger intercooler help to achieve even more power. The 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder that comes standard in the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe gets a 30-percent horsepower jump to 274 hp. The V6, which is now direct-injected for better efficiency, goes from 306 hp to 348 hp. The 2013 Genesis Coupe is available with a new 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, which replaces the previous 6-speed automatic. A 6-speed manual gearbox carried over from the previous model remains available. A retuned suspension goes along with the 2013 Genesis Coupe, as well as improved handling in the form of sharper steering. While gains in power are impressive, improvement in fuel economy is modest. Even with the new 8-speed automatic, fuel economy improves by only one mile per gallon in most cases. The 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0 gets an EPA-rated 21/30 mpg with 6-speed manual, 20/31 mpg with 8-speed automatic. The V6-powered 2013 Genesis Coupe 3.8 is rated 18/27 mpg with 6-speed manual, 18/28 mpg with 8-speed automatic. All models require Premium gasoline. In the cabin, the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe gets a redesigned center stack and gauges, including electroluminescent lighting. The steering column now offers a telescoping adjustment, which is a welcome addition for those drivers who are particular about exact steering wheel placement. Hyundai's BlueLink telematics system is now offered on upper trim levels, which offers voice text messaging, turn-by-turn navigation and monthly vehicle reporting, and can be compared to General Motors' OnStar service. Along with these upgrades in power and features is a jump in price. Buyers will have to shell out $2,000 more for most 2013 Genesis Coupe models, and more for high-performance trims. But despite its higher price, this sport coupe still remains a great bang for the buck. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a stiff competitor to the American pony cars: the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. Hyundai's rear-wheel-drive platform also makes it a toothier alternative to the Mazda MX-5, a perennial spec-racing favorite. While the Genesis Coupe is still a top choice in this segment, more competition has come with the introduction of the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ. Model Lineup The 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe comes in two basic models: Genesis Coupe 2.0T and Genesis Coupe 3.8. Each model has three trim levels: The base 2.0T ($24,250); 2.0T R-Spec ($26,500); 2.0T Premium ($28,750); 3.8 R-Spec ($28,750); 3.8 Grand Touring ($32,000) and 3.8 Track ($33,000). The 2.0T comes with a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The 2.0T R-Spec comes only with the manual, and the 2.0T Premium only with the automatic. Similarly, the 3.8 R-Spec is strictly manual, while the 3.8 Grand Touring comes with the 8-speed automatic. The 3.8 Track comes standard with the manual and offers the 6-speed automatic as an option. The 2.0T comes with fabric upholstery; power windows, outside mirrors and central locking; leather-wrapped shift knob and manual tilt steering wheel; and a six-speaker multi-media stereo. XM Satellite Radio and Bluetooth capability are also standard across the line. Premium adds power driver seat, automatic climate control, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass and programmable garage/gate remote, a 360-watt multi-media stereo with 10 speakers including woofer, touch-screen navigation, power tilt-and-slide moon/sunroof, and proximity key with push-button start/stop. The 2.0 Premium includes 18-inch alloy wheels, power sunroof, proximity key with push button start/stop; power, fabric upholstery with leather trim; power driver's seat; air conditioning, full power accessories; cruise control; leather-wrapped shift knob and manual-tilt steering wheel with audio controls; 360-watt, 10-speaker Infinity audio system with AM/FM, HD radio, satellite radio and CD player, iPod/USB/auxiliary jacks, satellite radio capability and Bluetooth connectivity; 7-inch touchscreen with navigation. The 2.0T R-Spec is a performance model that deletes some trim from the base 2.0T, as well as the base model's automatic headlights and cruise control. In exchange, the R-Spec adds 19-inch wheels with 40-series summer tires (instead of all-season tires), a Brembo braking system, track-tuned suspension, limited slip differential, black leather seats with red cloth inserts, and matching cloth and leather inside door trim. The 3.8 lineup begins with R-Spec trim, plus fog lights. The top-of-the-line Track adds the sunroof; cruise control; automatic climate control; the 360-watt stereo; folding and heated features to the outside mirrors, which include integrated turn signals; automatic xenon HID headlights; aerodynamic front wipers; a body-color rear spoiler; aluminum pedals and other metallic trim. Heated front seats are upholstered in black leather with power adjustment for the driver. The 3.8 Grand Touring shares most of the Track's luxury features, but deletes some of its performance equipment (including the Brembo brakes and stiffer suspension) while dialing back to 18-inch wheels and tires. It also sports a backup warning system, brown leather seats and other unique trim inside and out. Safety equipment includes frontal, side-impact and side-curtain airbags. The front seats have active, anti-whiplash head restraints. All four passengers get three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters. The rear seat comes outfitted with child safety seat anchors. Active safety features include antilock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control with traction control and tire pressure monitors. A backup warning system comes on the Grand Touring model.