Photos of a heavily camouflaged Genesis Coupe prototype appeared on the internet as early as May 2007, fueling anticipation and speculation.[3] The spy photos suggested that Hyundai's new coupe would be rear-wheel drive, as pictures of the engine bay showed a longitudinal engine orientation typical of front-engine, rear-drive vehicles. The pictures also showed a four-cylinder engine with a heat-wrapped turbocharger. Speculation on potential engines for the new coupe ranged from the turbocharged four-cylinder pictured to the Tau V8 that Hyundai had developed for the luxury-orientedGenesis.[4]
Shortly before the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto show, more photos were leaked of an uncovered silver Genesis Coupe next to a silver Ford Mustang, presumed to be the Genesis Coupe's target competitor
The production Genesis Coupe was officially debuted at the 2008 New York International Auto Show, showcasing a red and a silver model. The unveiling was accompanied by a demonstration of the coupe's abilities with powerslides and burnouts.
A lime-colored 3.8L Genesis Coupe was shown at the 2008 BUSAN International Motor Show. This car was badged as a Genesis Coupe 380GT
The Genesis Coupe is available with two engines. The standard engine is a 2.0L Theta turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 210 hp (157 kW; 213 PS) and 223 ft·lbf (302 N·m) torque,[7] with an optional 3.8L Lambda V6 engine producing 306 hp (228 kW; 310 PS) and 266 ft·lbf (361 N·m) torque.[7]
The 4-cylinder turbocharged engine shares many components with the Mitsubishi Evo X. Both engines are the result of the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance, a joint venture among Hyundai, Mitsubishi, and Chrysler, with Hyundai’s engine using a different computer, from Siemens.[8] Interesting features of the engine include oil injectors under the pistons to keep them cooler. The turbo is estimated to push around 7PSI[9]
A 6-speed manual transmission is standard equipment, with an optional 5- or ZF 6-speed automatic (depending on engine choice).
