Turn off that stability control
For hunting down rivals like the MINI Cooper S and Volkswagen GTI, a Genesis Coupe 2.0T should include the GT package, which our test car doesn’t have. The GT trim adds Brembo brakes, a recalibrated suspension, a limited-slip differential and a front suspension tower brace.

Although surprisingly nimble, the car doesn’t feel as buttoned down than other sports coupes.

We tried this 2.0T on the track anyway, at the Circuit ICAR in Mirabel, and the car provided us with mixed feelings. Although surprisingly nimble, the car doesn’t feel as buttoned down than other sports coupes. But the basic ingredients are there, and when we get the chance to drive the GT model, we’ll have a better idea between the two.

One thing that didn’t impress us, though, is the electronic stability control system that kicks in very early while cornering. Worse, instead of modulating the power heading back to the rear wheels, it bogs the car down completely, which ruins the fun of kicking out the car’s hindquarters. The solution is to shut it off manually, but then you’ve got no safety net in case you goof up.

Nice cockpit
The interior of the Genesis is impressive for the price. The dashboard plastic has a hard surface but resembles BMW’s grainy texture, while the switchgear on the centre stack is very well laid out. The leather seats look and feel as though they belong in a more expensive car. The 10-speaker Infinity sound system (on all but the base model) is phenomenal, while a USB port and Bluetooth connectivity is standard across the board.

Interior space is adequate up front, although adult rear-seat occupants will find a lack of headroom that makes even short trips unbearable.

To top things off, the Genesis Coupe is wrapped in a sexy body that draws stares, thumbs in the air and comments like: “That’s a Hoon-day?” Yes, sir.

Competition
The 2010 Genesis Coupe 2.0T starts at $24,495 and comes with lots of standard features, while our test car with the Premium Package is loaded and goes out the door at $27,495.

The turbo Genesis must face the following foes:
Chevrolet Camaro LS, 304q hp, $26,995
Chevrolet Cobalt SS, 260 hp, $25,445
Ford Mustang Pony Package, 210 hp, $25,499
Honda Civic Si, 197 hp, $26,880
Kia Forte Koup SX, 173 hp, $21,495
MINI Cooper S, 172 hp, $29,900
Mitsubishi Eclipse GS, 162 hp, $25,998
Volkswagen GTI 3-door, 200 hp, $27,975

The Genesis Coupe is wrapped in a sexy body that draws stares.