2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Apr 14, 2024, 10:36pm ET

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is two-door sports car that shares its rear-wheel-drive platform with the refined Genesis luxury sedan.

Recent Changes

For the most recent model year, the Genesis Coupe received an updated infotainment display.

Overview

Outside, the Genesis Coupe features a blend of traditional coupe proportions and modern details, and its front end is characterized by a hexagonal grille that adorns the Veloster hatchback and several other recent Hyundai models. The hood boasts a pair of air vents for better engine cooling, while a row of LED lights above each fog lamp adds another level of embellishment.

The Genesis Coupe offers an elegant cockpit with room for up to four passengers. The instrument cluster is made up of two easy-to-read analog gauges, and the bulk of the coupe's controls are ergonomically laid out in the center console. An available color touch screen is mounted near the top of the dashboard.

The Genesis Coupe is offered with Hyundai's Blue Link telematics service, which can be spec'd to provide voice text messaging, point-of-interest web search and download, and automatic collision notification in addition to traffic, weather, restaurant and nearby gas station information. A dedicated application can transform a compatible smartphone into a remote control that can be used to turn the car on and off, turn on the rear defroster or set the climate control settings, functions that owners in cold climates will be sure to appreciate.

While the Genesis Coupe has always handled corners with aplomb, the latest version was upgraded with retuned low-velocity-control suspension dampers for an improved ride and better handling than the outgoing model. Those looking for even more can opt for R-Spec trim level (discussed in detail below), which adds goodies like Brembo brakes.

More Potent Powertrain Lineup

Power for the Genesis Coupe comes from a 3.8-liter V6 engine that makes 348 horsepower at 6,400 rpms and 295 lb-ft. of torque at 5,100 rpms when burning premium fuel. Horsepower and torque both drop when the six-cylinder is burning regular fuel.

Power is sent to the rear wheels via either a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional eight-speed automatic unit controlled by shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel.

56-percent of the Genesis Coupe's weight lies on the front axle and 44-percent lies on the rear axle. All models come with a RPM-sensitive power steering system.

The Genesis comes with an Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system that offers three driver-selectable modes. The first mode is full-on, the default mode that the ECU selects when the car first turns on. An intermediate mode allows the driver to override the powertrain control while still retaining the brake-control function, and a third mode turns ESC off entirely.

Trim Level Breakdown

The Genesis is offered in three trim levels: Base, R-Spec and Ultimate.

Base models come generously equipped with heated door mirrors, halogen headlights, LED daytime running lights, solar control glass, 18-inch alloy wheels, a temporary spare tire, black cloth upholstery, a cabin air filter, a six-speaker stereo system with SiriusXM Satellite radio with a six-inch color display, Bluetooth connectivity, power windows and locks, cruise control and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

R-Spec models add Brembo brake calipers and upgraded discs, black cloth upholstery with leather inserts, automatic A/C, a proximity key with a push-button ignition, 19-inch alloy wheels and a multi-function display.

Ultimate models up the ante with HID auto-leveling headlights, aero wipers that enhance wiping performance at high speeds, a sunroof, a body-colored spoiler, rear parking sensors, full leather upholstery, heated front seats, a height-adjustable driver's seat, illuminated door sills, aluminum pedals, an upgraded ten-speaker sound system, HD radio and Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system.

R-Spec and Ultimate models can be ordered with a Torsen limited-slip differential at an extra cost.

Key Competitors

The Hyundai Genesis can be cross-shopped against a variety of competitors including the Ford Mustang, the Chevrolet Camaro, the Nissan 370Z, the Infiniti Q60 and the BMW 435i.