Detroit Auto Show: 2009 Hyundai Genesis Sedan To Challenge Luxury Market, With Or Without Peter Gabriel [Detroit Auto Show]
The new 2009 Genesis is the most advanced Hyundai ever
From its design and spaciousness to its technology and appointments, it delivers a wealth of features and performance befitting flagship European and Asian brands, but delivers them at a much more accessible price point. Starting with its Lexicon state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7® technology, Genesis offers an extraordinary combination of technology, premium appointments, and value. Standard is a soft-touch instrument panel with woodgrain accents, Bluetooth® hands-free mobile phone interface, and USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs. A state-of-the-art navigation system with an eight-inch display is available. The navigation unit is accessed by a user-friendly multi-media controller that also controls the radio. Backing out of tight spaces and avoiding mishaps is much easier with the available backup camera that uses the eight-inch display to show the driver a clear view immediately behind the car.
A leather-wrapped dash, door panels, and console lid surround the driver in a luxurious environment, while heated and cooled driver's seat provides optimal driving comfort. An automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor and rain-sensing wipers allow crystal clear sight lines. No other car in the segment offers an ultraviolet reflective leather steering wheel, which keeps the surface cool to the touch, even in scorching sunlight. Genesis also offers the conveniences of power rear sunshade, automatic electronic parking brake, proximity key and push button starter.
LEXICON® AUDIO SYSTEMS TEAM WITH XM, HD RADIO™, and APPLE TO OFFER UNRIVALED AUDIO PERFORMANCE AND CHOICE
Rolls Royce Phantom and Hyundai Genesis are the only automobiles to offer a Lexicon-branded state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7® technology. The Lexicon® surround sound audio system includes a 12-channel digital amplifier and 17 speakers producing more than 500 watts of sound in 7.1 discrete audio. Genesis is also the first popular brand to offer the clarity of digital HD Radio technology from the factory. Navigation-equipped Genesis models also include a 30-gigabyte hard drive and XM NavTraffic. Like every 2009 Hyundai, Genesis comes standard with XM Satellite Radio. Auxiliary USB and iPod® inputs allow drivers to fully control and charge iPods directly from the head unit.
ADVANCED LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY
The 2009 Genesis offers Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights. The advantages of HID headlamps include greater lighting power, daylight-type lighting and reduced power consumption. In addition, the cut lines of the new HID headlights are extremely precise, providing maximum nighttime visibility without distracting other drivers. The lamps also feature an auto-leveling function which keeps the headlights level regardless of how the vehicle is loaded with passengers or cargo. Genesis also offers an Automatic Front Lighting System that allows the headlamps to automatically swivel for better visibility when cornering.
NEW TECHNOLOGIES DELIVER IMPROVED SAFETY PERFORMANCE
Maintaining Hyundai's emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Genesis boasts world-class active and passive safety features to help both prevent accidents, and maximize the well being of its occupants in the event of a collision. The Genesis continues the Hyundai tradition of standardizing key life-saving safety technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), eight airbags and electronic active head restraints.
Genesis' total of eight airbags include advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard seat occupants.
An electronic active head restraint system will debut on the 2009 Hyundai Genesis. Hyundai is the first popular brand to offer electronic active front head restraints, an improvement over mechanically based active head restraint systems. Until now, electronic active head restraints could only be found on select Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus models. Active front head restraints have been proven by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to help prevent whiplash.
Genesis has a total of 8 ultrasonic sensors located on the front and rear bumpers. The sensors along with the rear backup camera help detect how close objects are when parking. Distance is indicated on the in-dash screen and accompanied by an audible warning tone.
Forward-looking radar is used in Genesis' Smart Cruise Control system. Smart Cruise Control adjusts vehicle speed to maintain distance from the vehicle ahead in the same lane.
Genesis is brought to a halt by large four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). The 12.6-inch front rotors have single-piston floating calipers and the rear brakes feature 12.4-inch rotors with single-pistons on V6 models. Twin-pistons and larger rotors are featured on V8 models.
WARRANTY
The all-new 2009 Hyundai Genesis is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty™. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Genesis buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.
TECHNOLOGY
* Electronic active front head restraints
* Electronic Stability Control
* Eight airbags
* Heated / cooled seats
* High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with adaptive leveling
* Adaptive Front Lighting System
* Push-button start
* Navigation with backup camera
* Electric parking brake
* Standard Bluetooth technology
* iPod/USB auxiliary inputs
* HD Radio™ receiver
* XM Satellite Radio® with NavTraffic
* Lexicon® Discrete Surround Audio Systems
* Automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor
* Rain-sensing wipers
* Smart cruise control
* Five-link front and rear suspension
* Tau V8 engine
* 6-speed transmissions
(Via Jalopnik.)
Hyundai unveiled Genesis Coupe, the new benchmark for attainable 300-horsepower sport coupes, during a press conference at the New York International Auto Show. The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a purpose-built rear-wheel drive sport coupe featuring two performance-focused engines - a 212-horsepower (est.), 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a range-topping all-aluminum, 306-horsepower (est.), DOHC 3.8-liter V6 engine. Hyundai Genesis Coupe is scheduled to join the Hyundai lineup in the spring of 2009.
Following the introduction earlier this year of the rear-wheel drive Genesis sport sedan, Hyundai Genesis Coupe is Hyundai's most dynamic performance car ever and the second consecutive all-new model introduction from Hyundai appealing directly to the car enthusiast. Hyundai Genesis Coupe uses the same flexible rear-wheel drive architecture originally developed for the Genesis sport sedan.
"We think our entry-level Genesis Coupe 2.0t, with its unique combination of rear-wheel drive and four-cylinder turbo power, offers an intriguing alternative to existing front-wheel drive sport coupes," said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. "The 3.8-liter version of Genesis Coupe takes driving to an even higher level, rivaling the capability of premium-performance coupes like the Infiniti G37."
DESIGN PROCESS
2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Genesis Coupe was shown as a concept at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show and its transformation from concept to production reveals that its signature design features have emerged intact.
"The mission for Genesis Coupe was to create a pure performance car with a design that would capture the imagination of hardcore automotive enthusiasts," said Joel Piaskowski, chief designer at the Hyundai Design Center in Irvine, Calif. "With its aggressive look from just about any angle, I think we have been able to do that."
Hyundai Genesis Coupe is also unmistakably linked to several Hyundai concept cars. The powerful curves, undulating beltline, surface detail, and "Z" bodyside lines come straight from the HCD9 Talus and the HCD8 sport coupe concepts.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe's rocker panels are drawn close to the ground making the bodysides extra thick and the daylight opening thin, allowing the wheels to be slammed up into bulging fenders. To complete the aggressive sports car look, the depth between the fenders and the greenhouse has been maximized.
Large openings in the front fascia allow for better engine breathing. The dual exhaust tips integrated into the rear fascia with surrounding blackout repeat the design theme of the front fascia graphic.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe rides on standard 18-inch alloy wheels or optional 19-inch wheels, both delivering a bold stance and aggressive handling.
INTERIOR DESIGN
In keeping with its mission to be the most exciting, attainable sport coupe on the road, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe boasts a cockpit designed to enhance the driving experience. An information display screen features an outside temperature reading and audio system information. Analog 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.
Bucket front seats with large side bolsters offer excellent lateral support for enthusiastic driving. High-quality seating surfaces range from full black fabric on the Hyundai Genesis Coupe GS and GT, to optional full black or brown leather on the GT, to red cloth inserts with black leather bolsters on the SE.
Among the other refinements are an Infinity audio system and two-stage front seat warmers. Hyundai Genesis Coupe also offers the convenience of a Smart Key and push-button starter.
REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE ARCHITECTURE
Hyundai Genesis Coupe's body shell is rich in ultra-high-tensile steel. Hyundai Genesis Coupe is lighter than the Infiniti G37, and its chassis is also 24 percent stiffer in bending rigidity than the BMW E46 M3. Rear-wheel drive provides a 55:45 front/rear weight distribution.
POWERTRAINS
Two engines infuse Hyundai Genesis Coupe with performance. The 3.8-liter Lambda DOHC V6 engine delivers an estimated 306 horsepower (310 horsepower using premium fuel) and 263 lb.-ft. of torque on regular unleaded. This engine will launch the Hyundai Genesis Coupe from 0 to 60 miles per hour in under six seconds. To maximize the power band, the 3.8-liter engine utilizes Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on intake cam shafts and a new Variable Intake System (VIS) that helps cylinders breathe efficiently at both low and high RPM. The better breathing results in outstanding off-the-line acceleration and passing performance, and remarkable fuel efficiency. The V6 engine uses an alloy block and cylinder heads for lighter weight and thermal efficiency, and features timing chains with no scheduled maintenance.
The turbocharged, intercooled 2.0-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder benefits from CVVT on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The 2.0-liter turbo generates an estimated 212 horsepower (223 horsepower using premium fuel) and 217 lb.-ft. of torque. It also features a cast-aluminum cylinder block and cylinder head. Both engines feature a free flowing dual cat-back exhaust and an available limited slip differential to put the power to the ground.
SPORT-TUNED SUSPENSION
Hyundai Genesis Coupe employs a MacPherson strut dual-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension setup. The front suspension is mounted to the body via a solid subframe which is lighter and stronger than a multi-piece component would be. To help reduce body roll and tune the Hyundai Genesis Coupe's at-the-limit handling for maximum predictability, 23-mm diameter front and 18-mm diameter rear stabilizer bars are used.
While all Hyundai Genesis Coupe models offer a fun and sporty driving experience, the high-performance Hyundai Genesis Coupe SE is a most willing partner for the true enthusiast. The SE's track-tuned sport suspension features a stiffer front spring rate, stiffer rear spring rate and unique shock valving. Hyundai Genesis Coupe SE delivers an increase in roll control over the GS. Superb structural rigidity sets the foundation for precisely-tuned handling performance in all Hyundai Genesis Coupes.
STEERING
Hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering with a quick ratio gear delivers both linearity and agility. The steering is also engine-RPM sensing.
TRANSMISSIONS
Both engines are mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0t offers an optional five-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC® while the 3.8-liter V6 offers a ZF six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC to handle the additional torque.
Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC® feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver control. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear that's in use.
HIGH PERFORMANCE BRAKING SYSTEMS
Brembo four-piston calipers clamp down on 13.4-inch front brake rotors and 13-inch rear rotors on SE models. All other models get substantial 12.6-inch front ventilated rotors and 12.4-inch rotors in the rear with floating single piston calipers.
INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES
The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe offers Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights. The advantages of HID headlamps include greater lighting power, daylight-type lighting and reduced power consumption. In addition, the cut lines of the new HID headlights are extremely precise, providing maximum nighttime visibility without distracting other drivers.
Music lovers will welcome the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe's standard auxiliary input jacks (3.5 mm mini-jack and USB input) to accommodate and charge audio devices such as iPods®. When an iPod or flash drive is connected through the USB port, located in the center storage compartment, not only does it play music through the vehicle's audio system, but it also charges the iPod and allows the driver to access tracks with the steering wheel audio controls. This system also allows both driver and passengers to easily view song/artist/title information and control the music from the audio head unit rather than only the iPod itself.
SEGMENT-LEADING SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES
In keeping with Hyundai's focus on offering segment-leading standard safety technologies across its lineup, the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe includes a wide range of both active and passive safety features. Standard safety technology includes driver and front passenger advanced frontal airbags, along with front seat-mounted side airbags, side air curtains and active front head restraints.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe has strong unibody construction, along with front and rear crumple zones, bodyside reinforcements, and five-mph energy-absorbing bumpers. The hood also includes buckling creases and safety stops.
The front seatbelts have pretensioners and force limiters, and the rear seats feature LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children), which make affixing child safety seats easier.
All Hyundai Genesis Coupe models feature standard four-channel ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to optimize brake performance under various dynamic loading conditions. The system also includes Brake Assist, which provides maximum ABS-level braking force when a panic stop is detected.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), one of the industry's most effective life-saving technologies, is standard in all Hyundai Genesis Coupes. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) studies suggest vehicles equipped with ESC experience 56 percent fewer fatalities in single-vehicle crashes.
THREE DISTINCT TRIM LEVELS
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is offered in three trim levels: the stylish and affordable GS, the premium-sport GT featuring the 3.8-liter V6, and the high-performance SE, available with either the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or the 3.8-liter V6 engine.
HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE GS
2.0-liter turbocharged, intercooled four-cylinder engine
Electronic Stability Control
Traction Control System
ABS
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Front, side, side air curtain air bags
Active front head restraints
Manual A/C
Keyless entry
Power windows, door locks, and mirrors
AM/FM/XM/CD Player/USB/iPod connectivity
Steering wheel audio controls
Cruise control
Vanity mirror illumination
Bluetooth
HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE GT
GS equipment Plus:
3.8-liter DOHC V6
Leather steering wheel / Shift knob
Metalgrain /chrome interior accents
Automatic temperature control
Fog lamps
Premium door sill plates
Trip computer
Chrome front fascia accents
Auto light control
HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE SE
Unique SE equipment:
2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or 3.8-liter DOHC V6
HID headlights
Aluminum pedals
Manual A/C
19-inch alloy wheels
High performance Bridgestone Potenza RE050A summer tires
Brembo braking system with monobloc four-piston calipers
SE track-tuned suspension / front strut brace
Limited-slip differential
Black leather bolsters / red cloth insert seats
Rear spoiler
Aero wiper blades
Chicago 2008 video: Hyundai brings the i-Blue to North America Gallery: Chicago 2008: Hyundai i-Blue (Via AutoblogGreen.)
Click on the i-Blue for a high-res gallery
One of the North American debuts at the Chicago Auto Show was the Hyundai i-Blue concept car and, as you can see in the video above (I hope), this thing looks a lot better in person than in the pictures we'd seen from the car's real introduction at the Frankfurt Motor Show last fall. The facts behind the hydrogen-powered fuel cell cal are that same as back then: Hyundai's third-gen fuel cell stack sits under the center of the floor and a 10,000 psi storage tank holds 115L of compressed hydrogen. All these components give Hyundai's first dedicated fuel cell vehicle a range of 370 miles. While nothing on the car has changed, we're glad to change our opinion of it based on a little face time. Check the video after the jump
Chicago 2008: 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring puts Euro-Korean fusion on the menu
click above for more high-res live shots of the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring
While the official unveiling of the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring took place in Montreal a few weeks back, the Chicago Auto Show is the first place that we at Autoblog got a chance to eyeball it in person, and we like what we see. While we'd certainly not classify the Elantra Touring as a 'hot hatch,' fuel efficiency is becoming an increasingly larger concern for many buyers. As a result, sporty little cars like the Elantra Touring will likely become increasingly relevant. The fact that the car is also a wagon adds plenty of usefulness for everyday driving needs. This version of the Elantra is sold as the i30 outside the U.S. and we welcome its arrival, joining the Saturn Astra as a Euro-designed five-door recently making its way here. Like the Astra, the Elantra Touring offers your choice of either a four-speed automatic or a more desirable five-speed manual, featuring a B&M shifter.
Premium options include seventeen inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, heated front seats and a power sunroof, but standard gear is pretty good with power windows, remote keyless entry, eight-way adjustable driver's seat, heated mirrors and a stereo equipped with an auxiliary jack and standard XM radio. Also included are safety features such as Electronic Stability Control, ABS and Electronic Brake-Force Distribution. Like other Hyundais, this one comes equipped well and should be priced very competitively against its competition.
Gallery: 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring
Continue reading Chicago 2008: 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring puts Euro-Korean fusion on the menu
(Via Autoblog.)
Chicago 2008: Hyundai rolls out 2009 Sonata
click above to view more high-res pics of the 2009 Hyundai Sonata
When Hyundai released its 2007 Sonata, the automaker served notice that it was serious about playing with the 'big boys' in the midsize sedan market; namely the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima and, just recently, the latest version of the Chevy Malibu. With its refresh of the Sonata for 2009, Hyundai has taken another major leap towards matching the best that Japan has to offer. Many consider the Camry too boring while others find the Accord a bit too sporty for their tastes. Hyundai is aiming at the middle ground with the '09 Sonata, and based on looks alone it seems that the company is on target. The interior especially looks ready to compete in the most hotly-contested segment in the industry, with quality materials and a much more pleasing design with more features than the current model.
Added power and efficiency have been gained in both four-cylinder and six-cylinder versions. Using the second generation Theta engine architecture, the 175-horse 2.4-liter inline-four is a vast improvement over its predecessor, especially since a new five-speed automatic replaces the old four-speed unit. Drivers who prefer a bit more power can opt for the newly updated 3.3-liter Lambda V6, now boasting 249 horsepower while still offering a slight increase in fuel economy. The Lambda V6 is available only with the five-speed automatic while four-cylinder buyers can choose between the automatic or a five-speed manual. We are still waiting for official pricing information, but expect the Sonata to continue to undercut the Accord and Camry.
Gallery: 2009 Hyundai Sonata
(Via Autoblog.)
Hyundai Elantra Touring unveiled at Montreal
The 5-door Hyundai Elantra Touring was unveiled at the Montreal International Auto Show, and is basically the Hyundai i30 CW wagon with a different name. Under the hood is a 2.0 liter inline-4 engine putting out 141 horsepower, mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic.
More photos after the jump.
Click to enlarge
(Via Paul Tan's Raves and Rants on the Automotive Industry.)
Hyundai Genesis Sedan unveiled ahead of Detroit
With just a week before the Detroit auto show opens up, Hyundai USA decided to officially introduce the Hyundai Genesis Sedan. Based on Hyundai’s latest rear wheel drive platform and with prices starting at $30,000, the Genesis will be the producer’s new flagship.
The Genesis will come with three engine choices. There will be two V6 units: a 3.3-liter that delivers 268 hp and 233 lb-ft. of torque and a 3.8-liter that delivers 290 hp and 264 lb.-ft. of torque. The top of the line will be the all-new Tau 4.6-liter V8 engine which delivers 368 hp and is mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual control. Engines are fitted with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on intake and exhaust cam shafts and a new Variable Intake System (VIS) that helps cylinders breathe efficiently at low and high RPM. These engines will also be environmentally friendly, with all three achieving Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification levels.
Of course, with the Hyundai Genesis Sedan being a luxury sedan, it offers a wide range of interior options, such as the Lexicon surround sound audio system which includes a 12-channel digital amplifier and 17 speakers producing more than 500 watts of sound in 7.1 discrete audio, leather-wrapped dash, door panels, and console lid surround the driver in a luxurious environment, automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor and rain-sensing wipers, ultraviolet reflective leather steering wheel, power rear sunshade, automatic electronic parking brake, proximity key and push button starter.
View more photos and the full press release after the jump.
(Via Auto Unleashed.)
aunch coincides with 40th anniversary
The all new, up-market Hyundai Genesis (or endearingly still referred to by Hyundai as BH) is set for a 29 December release party, coinciding with Hyundai's 40th anniversary. Of course, the luxury sedan will be released on home soil first before its world conquest commences.
To commemorate Hyundai's 40 years of growth, they will use a new official emblem for the year which will grace all advertising, product as well as corporate and in showrooms and sales / marketing events. The logo is made up of two brush strokes, combining elements of the past and future into one silhouette.
The Hyundai Genesis will be powered by a newly developed DOHC 32-valve V8 engine producing well over 300hp, should be able to hit 60mph within 6 seconds and is rear wheel driven. The Genesis is entering new territories for Hyundai, territories where BMW, Mercedes, Lexus and Infiniti are well represented.
Press Release
Hyundai Celebrating 40th Anniversary
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Dec. 29th will mark forty years of growth
On December 29 this year, Hyundai Motor Co. will celebrate the fortieth anniversary of its foundation and to mark this major milestone, the company is releasing an official emblem.
Executed with two simple but elegant calligraphic brush strokes which combine elements of the past and the future into the dynamic silhouette of car, the emblem symbolizes 40 years of growth and progress in the automotive business. It expresses the spirit of a forward-looking, progressive organization which prizes responsiveness and responsibility: Hyundai will always remain responsive to the needs of our customers and will adhere to the highest standards of responsibility to our stakeholders, the community and the environment.
The anniversary emblem will be incorporated into all Hyundai Motor advertising, product as well as corporate, and in signage displayed in showrooms and sales/marketing events.
Coinciding with the anniversary celebrations will be the Korean market launch of the company's all-new luxury sedan codenamed BH.
Since its concept debut at the New York Auto Show this past April, numerous spy photos of the new rear-wheel-drive 3.8-liter V8 sedan known internally as BH, have been taken during its development. But these latest detailed shots found on South Korean hi-fi stereo forum site, Wassada.com, show it completely in the buff. Aside from some interesting design details on the exterior, one particular detail which was speculated but unconfirmed, until now, is the BMW 5 Series iDrive like controller in the center console just below the gear lever.
Hyundai has already announced a release party for the upmarket Genesis on December 29th, coinciding with their 40th Anniversary, and then making its public debut just two weeks later at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. With pricing expected to come in well below $30,000 USD, the Genesis is sure to turn a lot of heads.
Hyundai unveiled its highly anticipated Concept Genesis Coupe during a press conference at the Los Angeles International Auto Show today. The concept car heralds the introduction of an all-new, rear-wheel drive 2 + 2 sports coupe scheduled to join the Hyundai lineup in the spring of 2009. Following the introduction earlier this year of the Concept Genesis sedan, Concept Genesis Coupe signals Hyundai’s second step in broadening its appeal to driving enthusiasts.
CONCEPT GENESIS COUPE HIGHLIGHTS
- Second rear-wheel drive performance car from Hyundai
- 300+ horsepower from enhanced 3.8-liter V6 from Genesis sedan
- The production version of the sports coupe arrives in the spring of 2009
The Sonic Orange concept is complemented by a Ballistic Black carbon fiber hood, roof and ground effects for reduced weight. Strong hints of the production version are highlighted in its “Z” bodylines and powerful curves. When the production sports coupe arrives, it likely will be the most affordable 300+ horsepower car on the market, and the most dynamic performance car yet from Hyundai.
“Concept Genesis Coupe is the most thrilling, most emotional Hyundai yet,” said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. “When it hits the market in early 2009, we aim to deliver a driving experience that challenges cars like Infiniti G37, at prices more like Mitsubishi Eclipse.”
DESIGN PROCESS
“The mission for Concept Genesis Coupe was to create a pure performance car with a design that would capture the imagination of hardcore automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Piaskowski, chief designer at the Hyundai Design Center in Irvine, Calif. “With its aggressive look from just about any angle, I think we have been able to do that.”
The powerful curves, surface detail and “Z” bodyside lines come straight from the same underlying inspiration that guided two earlier, well-received 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 theme while also providing direction for the concept’s assertive headlight and taillight designs.
The look of Concept Genesis Coupe was in part inspired by LeMan’s race cars, drifters and by Jada Toys Dub City™ die cast vehicles. The front and rear stance of the Concept Genesis Coupe can be described as sinister.
“Beauty and danger co-exist in the design of the Concept Genesis Coupe,” said Eric Stoddard, senior creative designer. “When viewed from a distance, the car is beautiful to look at. But up close it can appear a bit menacing and even a little intimidating.”
The concept’s rocker panels are drawn close to the ground making the bodysides extra thick and the daylight opening extremely thin, allowing the wheels to be slammed up into bulging fenders. To complete the aggressive sports car look, the depth between the fenders and the greenhouse has been maximized.
Three large heat extractors sculpted into the hood are designed to cool just about any powerful engine. When the concept becomes reality, three large openings in the front fascia will allow for better engine breathing. The dual exhaust tips integrated into the rear fascia repeat the design theme of the front cooling ducts and are surrounded by a large carbon fiber air diffuser.
An arching roofline and tapering greenhouse highlight the exterior profile and emphasize the car's broad shoulders and wide stance. Concept Genesis Coupe rides on 20-inch polished aluminum deep-dish wheels with Hankook 255/35 ZR front tires and 275/35 ZR rear tires.
CONCEPT GENESIS COUPE SPECIFICATIONS
· Configuration: Front engine, rear-wheel drive sports coupe
· Wheelbase: 2,820 mm / 111 inches
· Overall length: 4,666 mm / 183.7 inches
· Overall width: 1,902 mm / 74.9 inches
· Overall height: 1,386 mm / 54.5 inches
· Wheels: 20-inch, five-spoke
· Tires: Hankook 255/35 ZR front and 275/35 ZR rear
PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION CAR DETAILS
· Engine type: V6
· Estimated horsepower: more than 300 horsepower
· Estimated torque: more than 250 lb. ft.
· Displacement: 3.8 liters
· Block material: high pressure die cast aluminum
· Cylinder head material: aluminum
· Valvetrain: Dual Over Head Cam (DOHC)
· Valve timing: continuous variable valve timing
· Estimated 0-60 mph: under 6 seconds
· Transmission type: 6-speed manual
· Front brakes: Brembo, 340 mm disc, twin-piston calipers
· Rear brakes: Brembo, 330 mm disc, twin-piston calipers
· Limited slip differentia
Mid-cycle update
Do not change what is not broken. Hyundai designers took his saying to heart for the mid-cycle facelift for the best selling sedan on the Korean peninsula. The bumper, headlamps and radiator grille received some minor touch-ups, while new alloy wheels were added and the waistline molding, rear bumper and taillight clusters were adjusted to resemble the front design more than before.
More drastic changes are found under the hood, as the Sonata Transform is the first model to receive the second generation Theta engine. The Theta II engine delivers more horsepower and improves acceleration while maintaining fuel economy, better yet it even improves mileage and lowers emissions. The performance boost has been attained through the addition of a variable induction system and a variable valve timing system.
Engine Improvements:
| Power in PS (kW) | Torque (kgf,m) | Manual | Auto | |
| Theta 2.0 | 144 (106) – 158 (116) | 19,2 – 19,6 | 5-speed | 4-speed |
| Theta 2.4 | 161(118) - 171 (126) | 22,3 – 22,8 | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Theta LPI 2.0 | 136(100) – 137 (101) | 18,9 – 18,9 | 5-speed | 4-speed |
| Lambda 3.3 | 233 (171) – 242 (178) | 31,0 – 31,5 | - | 5-speed |
| Diesel 2.0 | 146 (107) – 150(110) | 32,0 – 32,0 | 6-speed | 4-speed |
The interior has been redesigned to create a more upscale feeling through a new crash pad, new floor console and door trim.
The new Sonata is on sale now in Korea, export models (which may differ slightly from Korean models) will start shipping early 2008.
WorldCarFans sister site CarSpyShots.net has posted today these amazing shots of the all-new Hyundai rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. Looking a bit watered down compared to the recently released design sketches of the muscular Concept Genesis Coupe, this vehicle snapped during a market research event is standing next to its target competitor, the Ford Mustang. In an effort to minimize preconceived biases, both vehicles are painted exactly the same color as well as having all emblems covered. Additionally, participants are given a questionnaire about the vehicles presented regarding their impressions in which they refer to the vehicles by a given letter. As seen in these photos, the Hyundai is wearing a sign on the front bumper with the letter F.
Although spy photos taken from research clinics are nothing new, these are the clearest photos we have seen from such an event. Normally, the specially selected participants of these market research events are obviously prohibited to have cameras. But judging by the vantage point of the photos it seems the spy photographer may have been an insider with access to the rest of the facility allowing a view from above the curtains.
The presence of the Mustang as the target competitor reaffirms previous reports that the sports coupe will receive a V8 engine (the 4.6-liter from the Genesis). Codenamed BK, but often referred to as the Hyundai Mustang by Hyundai insiders, the sports coupe replaces the front-wheel-drive Tiburon coupe, but will most likely be given a new name since it has nothing in common with its predecessor as well as emphasizing a high performance rear-wheel-drive nature. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe which is based on the BH/Genesis platform will first arrive in Asia in late 2008 or 2009, and arrive in the U.S. for the 2010 model year. A convertible version is expected to follow.
[UPDATE]
New information from NewTiburon.com. According to a participant of the focus group, two engines mentioned were a 2.0-liter turbo with 215hp and 217 ft-lbs of torque priced at $19,000 and a 3.8-liter V6 with 300hp and 280 ft-lbs of torque starting at $25,900. There was no mention of a V8 engine but that doesn't mean it won't happen. However, the focus group was conducted in June of this year which leaves plenty of time for changes. Other features mentioned include iPod integration in center console, bluetooth function through head unit, sunroof, mirror mounted LED turn signals and limited slip.
To replace Tiburon
These latest spy photos from Death Valley capture a prototype of a new Hyundai sports coupe as it undergoes hot weather testing. This new coupe will replace Hyundai’s current sports coupe, the Tiburon, but it is not yet known if Hyundai will choose to keep the Tiburon name, or give it a new name to emphasize its all-new model.
A major change from the current Tiburon, which is front wheel drive, is the new rear-wheel-drive trans in the coupe. It will likely also be larger, since the new coupe will be based on the same BH platform as Hyundai’s soon to be released large rear-wheel-drive sedan, the Genesis. While the current Tiburon offers a choice of a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder or a 2.7 liter V6, engines for the new coupe are likely to be quite different. Rumors abound about the possibility of a turbocharged 2.0 liter 4-cylinder with direct fuel injection. Also expected is a 3.8 liter V6, which will be the standard engine in the Genesis. A top performance model might even have the 4.6 liter V8 that will be optional in the Genesis, but this is unconfirmed.
The new coupe is expected to be launched next year.
