2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Total Car Score Analysis

The 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe earns an average Total Car score in the Sport Coupes & Convertibles category. 
 
Reviewers feel this Hyundai offers excellent value, and nowhere is that bang-for-the-buck more apparent than in the Genesis Coupe’s performance capabilities. In fact, while the two available engines, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 3.8-liter V6, each give the car a distinctly different personality, the consensus among reviewers is that both powertrains deliver more than enough acceleration to keep things interesting. Likewise, while the standard suspension makes for confident handling, the firmer underpinnings on 3.8 Track models should be enough to satisfy even hardcore driving enthusiasts. The attractive passenger cabin and the extensive list of standard features complete the package.  
 
Chief among the downsides noted by reviewers are the claustrophobic rear seats. Some also complained the Genesis Coupe lacked the precise steering feel of some competitors when driven near the limit. Some also found the available Infinity audio system delivered only so-so sound quality. 
 
The 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe returns with no significant changes, but a mid-lifecycle refresh is likely due next year.

2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Model Line-Up

The 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is offered in a half-dozen trim levels: 2.0T, 2.0T R-Spec, 2.0T Premium, 3.8 R-Spec, 3.8 Grand Touring and 3.8 Track. 
 
All three 2.0T models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 210 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque. The 3.8 models get a 3.8-liter V6 that produces a healthy 306 hp and 266 lb-ft. A six-speed manual transmission is standard with both motors, while five- and six-speed automatics are available as options on the 2.0T and 3.8, respectively.  
 
Standard features for the entry-level 2.0T include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, a trip computer, Bluetooth with streaming audio capability and a CD stereo with satellite radio and six speakers. The performance-oriented 2.0T R-Spec adds 19-inch alloy wheels with summer tires, a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, a limited-slip differential and distinctive leather and cloth upholstery.  
 
The 2.0T Premium forgoes the R-Spec’s mechanical upgrades in favor of creature comforts like a sunroof, keyless entry/starting, automatic climate control, a power driver’s seat and an auto-dimming rearview mirror, plus a touch-screen navigation system and premium 360-watt Infinity audio system with 10 speakers.  
 
Aside from the V6 engine under the hood, the 3.8 R-Spec is virtually identical to the 2.0T R-Spec. The 3.8 Grand Touring’s standard equipment list is similar to the 2.0T Premium, with the addition of heated outside mirrors, ultrasonic rear parking sensors, leather upholstery and heated front seats. The 3.8 Track gets all the R-Spec’s performance-oriented bits plus xenon headlights and a rear spoiler. 
 
With the 2.0-liter engine, the 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe earns EPA fuel economy estimates of 21 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined when fitted with the manual transmission, and 20/30/23 with the automatic. With the 3.8-liter V6, those numbers drop to 17/27/20 with the automatic and 17/26/20 with the manual.

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