2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Combining quality and performance without breaking the bank is a tall order, but the Hyundai Genesis Coupe makes a fair go of it. This is the last year of its lifecycle, though. Still, it was an interesting experiment from the Japanese automaker. Most models from the brand are sensible, reliable vehicles with equally sensible price tags. The Genesis bucks this trend by offering a potent V6 engine with outputs reaching 348 horsepower. It cannot quite compete with top-tier premium makers like Mercedes-Benz or BMW, but it is certainly a way for the Joe Sixpack who wants a taste of how the other half live.

Traditional Hyundai styling is very apparent in the exterior, although evolved to confidently advertise its more sporty aspirations. In fact, it wouldn't look out of place on the showroom of a premium dealership beside names like Mercedes, Audi, or Lexus. This variant sports a sloping roofline, with a spoiler atop the trunk lid. But it is the front fascia that really stands out. The hood-mounted air intakes are hard to miss, and the rise and fall of the sheet metal gives it an aggressive stance. The grille has shrunk to give more space for the auto on/off headlights to shine, no pun intended. Factory-installed equipment includes fog lights, DRL, and 18-inch alloys. The upper trim levels get 19-inchers instead. Color options include Tsukuba Red and Ibiza Blue, if you want to draw some attention, or Casablanca White and Caspian Black.

Of the three engines available across the range, the new Hyundai Genesis Coupe only gets access to one in its entry-level configuration. But you do get a choice of the transmission you pair with the V6. For a more engaging experience when tackling corners, the six-speed manual is probably the way to go, although the eight-speed automatic is nearly as quick and refined on the shift. But, if you disagree, there are paddle shifters on the steering wheel to override the system. None of this affects the power outputs, though. But the choice of gas type does. Premium gasoline gives the best results of 348 hp and 295 lb-ft, while non-premium causes these figures to drop to 344 and 292, respectively. This is not a very large difference, so you should be able to make the 0-60 mph sprint in under six seconds regardless. Unlike the other body styles on offer, the coupe does not get access to an AWD system.

The US is quite used to high-performance vehicles at a reasonable cost, but this is no reason not to love the Gen. The sport-tuned suspension helps it deliver an engaging experience, but if you want real fun, the track-tuned setup with low-velocity dampers and the Torsen differential should be on your add-on wishlist. The center of gravity rests just behind the driver's seat, so it may take some getting used to. But, once you master the feel of the car, it really delivers on its looks. There are certainly more thrilling drivers out there, and more luxurious cruisers, but few match the delicate balance struck here without pushing the price well above what is being asked for from the Genesis.

With only one motor option, the 2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe returns acceptable mileage for a sports car. However, compared to most economical vehicles, it's rather subpar. The EPA rates the city/highway/combined figures at 16/25/19 mpg with the auto gearbox, while the manual evens out at 17/24/19 mpg. With a full 17.2-gallon fuel tank, a maximum range of 327 miles in mixed conditions is possible.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe models are less spacious inside than their sedan counterparts. Still, the back row is spacious enough for adults of average length. Cargo volume disappoints, though, at a mere 10 cubic feet. Despite the smaller-than-usual cabin, the interior of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe is plusher than most of the Japanese brand's products. The lower levels are dressed in cloth upholstery, in Black or Gray, but leather is present in Gray, Black, or Tan on the upper specs. The layout of the controls is comfortable and convenient, which is what we have come to expect from Hyundai cars.

There is a lengthy list of features that come installed right off the factory floor. Conveniences include power accessories and remote entry, while quality of life is improved by automatic air conditioning and a comprehensive infotainment setup. AM/FM Radio with CD playback and SiriusXM are accessed via a six-inch color display, while six speakers channel the audio. Bluetooth handsfree is factory installed, too. Electrically adjustable front seats, a seven-inch display, and navigation can be optioned on at additional cost.

In the USA, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe has not been reviewed for safety, but its other derivatives have. The NHTSA and the IIHS each attributed the sedan top marks, which included a Top Safety Pick+ award from the latter. Built-in crash mitigation tech includes six airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. The upper trim levels allow you to upgrade the brakes to Brembo variants, while also adding hill start assist. While the available track-tuned suspension does not do much to improve security, it makes pushing the limits of this cruiser that much more satisfying.

If you find one still for sale new, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe has a price of around $27,000 MSRP. The R-Spec, adds around $3k to the price, while the top-tier Ultimate asks for around $34,000. But, you're more likely to find used models in the US, so you should expect discounted figures. For this reasonable cost, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe is an excellent deal. It gives you a decent amount of power, impressive handling, and a near-premium cabin at a fraction of the cost that true luxury badges ask.