Hyundai rolls out revamped Genesis coupe

[January 10, 2012]  DETROIT (AP) -- Hyundai Motor Co. on Monday unveiled an updated version of its Genesis coupe, complete with a more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a new look to its front end.

The 2013 coupe, due in U.S. showrooms early in the spring, was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show press days in Detroit. It will help Hyundai compete against similar sporty coupes from Subaru and Scion.

Hyundai has been on a role. Its strong lineup of crossover SUVs and cars lifted U.S. sales 20-percent last year.

Here are some details about the car:

POWER: Two new engines. First, a new four-cylinder turbo that generates 274 horsepower, 30 percent better than its predecessor. There's also a 3.8-liter V-6 with a 42 horsepower increase to 348. Other options include two eight-speed automatic transmissions, which Hyundai says are the first in its class. Electronic stability control, in which a computer controls four-wheel braking to stabilize a car when it goes out of control, can be turned off for track racing.

LOOKS: New, more sculpted hood and an aerodynamic front fascia, with available LED daytime running lights and tail lights. The Interior also got refinements, including a new lighted gauge cluster, telescoping steering wheel and a redesigned center stack above the shifter. New 18- and 19-inch wheels.

PRICING: Not announced, but current model starts at $22,250.

CHEERS: Styling and performance are great for the price, competitive with more expensive coupes.

JEERS: Gas mileage is not up to par with Hyundai's other cars, but it's still not bad. The V-6 version can get up to 18 miles in town and 28 mpg on the freeway, with the four-cylinder getting up to 21 in the city and 31 on the highway. Mileage depends on transmission choice.

[Associated Press; By TOM KRISHER]

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