Today I stopped over at our local "HUGE!" Fuccillo Hyundai of Schenectady and took a drive in the 2011 Hyundai Genesis Coupe R-Spec with the 3.8L V-6. The Genesis coupe is a front engine rear drive platform which set the stage for Hyundai to develop a true enthusiast model. This is where the R-Spec comes in.
The version I drove was white with the 306hp V-6, it is also available in 210 hp 2.0L 4cyl. turbo. R-Spec model is only available in 6 speed manual. Also comes with a limited slip rear differential and Brembo brakes. Hyundai also cut some weight out of the car. What they put together is exactly what I like in a car, all the performance parts and no extra frills. The car felt very nice and solid on the road. It was easy to have a nice spirited drive right out of the box. Engine had a nice smooth and long power band. Seating position, seats, and steering wheel felt right for the package. Brembo brakes were as expected with good pedal feel and stopping power. Suspension was firm and provided good feel. The car overall gave me the confidence to push the car a little in the corners. The stabiilty/traction control kicked in a little sooner than I would have liked. I left it switched on since I didn't have the time to become fully acclimated to the cars handling characteristics.
Overall for the price (sticker $27,700) it is a very nice solid package. Other companies should build a car like this for enthusiasts. Anytime BMW or Porsche build a special no frills model they actually charge MORE money for it. Hyundai takes the other approach which is refreshing. I would compare this car to the Nissan 370Z, Chevy Camaro, Ford Mustang, BMW 135i or even 335i. It may not win the race but it will give you a fighting chance. Don't forget it costs $10-20,000 less than the above mentioned cars. Hyundai has come a long way in the last 10 years. They seem to be covering all the bases. Maybe a super car is on the way?
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