The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe made its North American debut yesterday at the New York Auto Show to largely positive reviews.  The New York Times says, “With its killer looks, the Genesis Coupe is a ridiculously cheaper alternative to the Infiniti G37,” quoting a price “just above $20,000 for the turbo 4, and below $26,000 for the more powerful version.”   But the Times cautions, “The open question is whether Hyundai can actually deliver the eager engines and fingertip-friendly handling…a sport coupe requires.” 

Edmunds Inside Line comments, “There's enough engine under the hood to justify the comparison” to the G37.  The Genesis is powered by an aluminum 3.8-liter V6 putting out 310 horsepower.  “Infiniti's 3.7-liter V6 makes 330 hp.”  Edmunds says the “transmission choices look good, too. You can have either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic, and once equipped with the former the Genesis will hit 60 mph in under 6 seconds, says Hyundai.”

The Orlando Sentinel calls the Genesis Coupe “a Korean version of the Ford Mustang, powered by a V-6 engine with a potent 310 horsepower, more than the Mustang's current V-8.”

Motor Trend seems to think the appearance of the Genesis is the start of something larger for Hyundai. “The cost of developing a new vehicle architecture can be anything from $500 million to $1 billion,” MT notes.  “You don't spend that sort of money just to build a niche model like a two-door coupe. So the only logical conclusion to draw is the Genesis Coupe is the first in a family” of new cars.  “So, is a Hyundai 3 Series fighter on the way? I wouldn't bet against it.”

Check out the competition the Genesis will be facing with U.S. News' rankings and reviews of affordable and upscale performance cars.

Find this story interesting? If so, please click "Buzz up" to let us know.