2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

While the Genesis Coupe accomplished its mission in that respect—changing shoppers’ perception of Hyundai, and getting them a new foothold in the market—it was clearly in some respects a first effort and lacked the sort of precise feel and finely honed dynamics of some of the competition.

Enter the 2013 Genesis Coupe; while Hyundai’s calling it a mid-cycle refresh, the changes are extensive, including much stronger engines, a new eight-speed automatic transmission, retuned steering and suspension systems, all-new front styling, a new instrument panel, and an expanded feature set—plus improved materials and detailing inside and out. In short, it’s as if Hyundai is presenting a higher-resolution version of the previous Genesis Coupe.

‘Aggressive’ is a word that automakers tend to overuse in describing the styling of exteriors, but it's an appropriate descriptor here for the new Genesis Coupe. It’s not only been given an injection of extra power and performance but also a much bolder face, better detailing, and more of a premium sports-car look inside.

Overall, the new exterior looks smartly at home next to sedan models like the Elantra or Sonata—or even the new Veloster coupe—yet there's no mistaking that this is the assertive, slung-back profile of a rear-wheel-drive coupe.

The 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe offers a layout—and focus—that’s relatively rare today, outside of pony cars or luxury sports cars; it’s a performance-focused, rear-wheel-drive coupe, offering a choice of turbocharged four-cylinder or naturally aspirated V-6 engines.

Both engines in the 2013 model are significantly stronger than those of last year’s model. The 2.0T engine—a 2.0-liter in-line four—now gets a twin-scroll turbocharger and larger intercooler, so that it makes 274 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, with peak torque reached at just 2,000 rpm, and a new 3.8-liter direct-injection V-6 in the 3.8 models makes 348 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. With either engine, you have a choice of a standard six-speed manual or Hyundai’s new eight-speed automatic, which includes paddle-shifters.