The use of dual continuously variable valve timing adds to an inexhaustible vigor and relatively flat power band, all of which is accompanied by something close to a “tuner” exhaust note. I’m not a fan of the auditory stimulation but I see how it fits the bill so to speak, especially with a manual transmission.

The autobox works as it should and redeems itself with steering-wheel shift paddles.

One car – three transmissions
Confused? When equipped with the V6 engine, one can opt for either a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. With the I-4, the choice is the aforementioned 6-speed manual or an optional 5-speed automatic.

Unfortunately, buyers of a 4-cylinder automatic Genesis Coupe are penalized a cog. Not fair I know but the autobox works as it should and redeems itself with steering-wheel shift paddles.

Whether such F1-inspired devices are a suitably sporty substitute for a manual gearbox is debatable. I’m still pretty much “old school” about it, meaning give me the 6-speed manual stick and some twisty pavement on which to exploit the car’s exceptional handling ability.

Suspension designed for handling
The Genesis Coupe employs a Macpherson strut arrangement up front and a 5-link independent setup at the rear. The engineering and calibration applied therein is clearly intended to produce outstanding handling characteristics, and it does but not at the cost of a reasonable ride quality given the intent of this vehicle.

For those more focused on grip than gripe, the GT package adds a front tower strut bar, beefier stabilizer bars and a stiffer suspension calibration to maximize handling dynamics. Brembo brakes and Bridgestone Potenza performance tires complete the pavement-searing package.

Balanced, predictable and tenacious come to mind when Hyundai’s latest coupe is tossed about with wild abandon or something close to it. Steering inputs are instantly responded to with feedback that reminds me of old-time sports cars without hydraulic or electrical power assist – raw and unfettered.

The Genesis Coupe employs a Macpherson strut arrangement up front and a 5-link independent setup at the rear.