Hyundai Genesis Coupe show car

The Genesis Coupe show car, on display at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, takes Hyundai to a new level of performance and styling. A strict one-off, this show car is based on the all-new, rear-wheel drive 2+2 Genesis Coupe, which is scheduled to join the Hyundai lineup in North America early in 2009. 

The Genesis Coupe will be the most dynamic performance car yet from Hyundai and will bring stunning styling and advanced chassis technology. The Genesis Coupe will become Hyundai’s second 300-plus horsepower, rear-wheel drive vehicle, following the unveiling earlier this year of the Genesis sports saloon.

The Genesis Coupe show car takes the strong styling cues of the production model – its ‘Z’ bodylines and powerful curves – and exaggerates them to spawn a unique, arresting vehicle.  The bonnet, grille and other details will be different when the production car reaches showrooms next year, but the proportions and overall character of the show car reflect the reality of the production model. ‘Sonic Orange’ paint work gives the show car a dramatic appearance, which is enhanced by its bare carbonfibre bonnet and roof, and other customisations which help to reduce weight. 

It is powered by an all-aluminium 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine, producing 303PS, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.  It uses the same flexible rear-wheel-drive architecture originally developed for the Genesis saloon, with a MacPherson strut dual-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension setup.  Large front and rear Brembo discs provide excellent braking performance, while grip comes from Dunlop 255/35 ZR front tyres and Dunlop 275/35 ZR rear tyres.

“The mission with the Genesis Coupe show car was to create a pure performance car with a design which would capture the imagination of hardcore automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Piaskowski, chief designer at the Hyundai Design Center in Irvine, California, USA, where the vehicle was designed.  “With its aggressive look from just about any angle, I think we have been able to do that.” The look of the Genesis Coupe show car was inspired in part by Le Mans race cars and in part by the drifting scene, and it makes a striking visual statement.  The sills are pulled close to the ground, to deepen the bodysides, while the 20” lightweight alloy wheels and low-profile tyres sit close to the sleek bodywork.  To complete the aggressive look, the depth between the bumpers and the glasshouse has been maximised, giving the show car a menacing appearance from every angle. 

The powerful curves, surface detail and ‘Z’ bodyside lines come straight from the same underlying inspiration that guided two earlier, well-received Hyundai 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 direction for the Genesis Coupe, including the assertive headlight and taillight designs.

The show car’s interior takes its lead from the cockpit of the production Genesis Coupe.  An in-car information display screen features an outside temperature reading, audio system information and settings for the climate control.  Analogue gauges include a large speedometer and tachometer positioned so the driver can immediately access critical driving information.  The instrument cluster features Hyundai’s signature blue-gauge illumination. 

Music lovers will welcome the inclusion of standard auxiliary input jacks to accommodate and charge audio devices, including MP3 players.  Among the other refinements are an Infinity audio system, sports bucket seats and heated front seats.  The sporting experience is completed by the presence of a push-button starter.