Hyundai unveiled its highly anticipated Concept Genesis Coupe at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show. 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.

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.

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.”

Designers used the Day Light Opening (DLO -- a designer's term for the side glass) from the HCD9 Talus Concept on the Concept Genesis Coupe.

The HCD8 sport tourer concept’s sensual body forms influenced the overall design direction of Concept Genesis Coupe.

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 ZR20 front tires and 275/35 ZR20 rear tires.

Date posted: 12-03-2007


SEOUL, S. Korea — Hyundai Motor Co. on Monday took the wraps off its new Genesis emblem, which looks a lot like the winged logo used by upscale marque Bentley.

The Genesis emblem uses a black hexagonal shield framed by a pair of wings. Bentley also makes use of wings in its classic emblem. The Genesis logo will adorn the Korean automaker's rear-wheel-drive luxury sport sedan, which is set to go on sale shortly in the home market and will arrive next year in the U.S. as a 2009 model. Hyundai also confirmed that Genesis is the "official name" of the car, surprising no one.

But don't look for the winged Genesis emblem in the U.S. "The Genesis emblem will only be applied to the Korean and Chinese markets," said the automaker in a statement on its global Web site.

The Genesis gets Hyundai's new 4.6-liter V8, which delivers 375 horsepower and is linked to a six-speed automatic transmission. A V6 will be offered in 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter versions.

What this means to you: Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, they say. — Hoseok Park, Correspondent