Tuners take a look at Genesis coupe, Hyundai provides details on track version

Jul 24th 2008 at 3:02PM
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Even before the Hyundai Genesis coupe made its big reveal in New York, its aftermarket potential was apparent. While the 3.8-liter V6-equipped model will undoubtedly find an audience with the hairdresser set, the 223 hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter model – directly related to the inline four found in the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart and Evolution X – is where it's at. Hyundai realizes if it's to be taken seriously as a true performance player, the Genesis coupe has to be embraced by the aftermarket. So it invited 20 tuners to its North American headquarters in Fountain Valley, California to take a look under the hood.


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[Source: Inside Line]

While production hasn't officially begun, Hyundai wanted aftermarket firms to get a head start on development. Among the companies represented at the "measuring" session were HKS, Garrett-Honeywell and Gale Banks Engineering. John Espino, an engineer for Gale Banks, said "I'm more excited about this [the 2.0-liter turbo] than I am about that one [the V6]." However, in addition to turbocharger and intercooler upgrades for the boosted 2.0-liter, Gale Banks plans to develop a supercharger for the V6.

Garrett's Brian Regnier pointed out to Inside Line that the turbocharger on the 2.0-liter model is positioned above the engine mount, limiting the size of upgraded turbos. "But there's always a way around that."

But Hyundai isn't leaving everything up to the aftermarket. As reported previously, the automaker plans to release a lightweight, track version of the Genesis coupe, which will include a retuned suspension, front strut tower bar and four-piston front Brembo brakes. The standard Genesis coupe will be fitted with Bridgestone RE92As, sized 225/45R18 in front and 245/45R18 in the rear, but the track model will benefit from stickier Potenza RE050As, wrapping 19-inch wheels.

The only thing left to prove now is how it drives on the road and on the track, and we're eagerly anticipating our change to get behind the wheel later this year.

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