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Hyundai reveals first supercar

Thursday, 20 Mar 2008 13:03
Hyundai's first ever supercar
Hyundai have lifted the lid on their Genesis Coupe, the company's first ever supercar.

The purpose-built rear-wheel drive sports coupe looks set to propel the Korean manufacturer into the supercar market for the first time.

The vehicle was revealed at the New York International Auto Show, with a number of details about the car being made available. It will be powered by a choice of two performance-focused petrol engines - a 223PS 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder and a range-topping all-aluminium 310PS, DOHC 3.8-litre V6.

The Genesis Coupe is slated to join the Hyundai lineup in South Korea and North America early in 2009, with British models possibly becoming available later on.

"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 sports coupes," commented John Krafcik, vice president of product development and strategic planning with Hyundai Motor America.

"The 3.8-litre version takes things to an even higher level, rivalling the capability of premium coupes."

The Genesis Coupe boasts a specially designed cockpit, with an information display screen featuring an outside temperature reading, audio system information and settings for climate control. Analogue gauges include a large speedometer and tachometer and the instrument cluster features Hyundai's signature blue gauge illumination.

Standard auxiliary input jacks will accommodate and charge audio devices (iPods and such), with sound being pumped through an Infinity audio system. Sport bucket and two-stage heated front seats complete the interior look.

The Genesis Coupe uses a flexible rear-wheel drive architecture, originally developed for the Genesis sports saloon. It uses a MacPherson strut dual-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension setup. Both engines are mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission with an auto option and 18-inch alloy wheels.

"The Genesis Coupe is further proof that Hyundai's engineers are capable of producing cars which match or better anything produced in Japan, Europe or America," exclaimed Tony Whitehorn, managing director of Hyundai UK.

"We would love to bring this amazing car to the UK, and are keeping a close eye on public reaction to see if there is demand from British driving enthusiasts."

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