Hyundai flirted with the import performance crowd with the Tiburon, but the Korean-automaker is pink-slip serious about appealing to the aging “The Fast and Furious” crowd with its latest coupe. The new, rear-drive Genesis Coupe is a well-executed sporty car with impressive fit-and-finish and decidedly performance-driver bent. For those enthusiasts with a passion for customization and factory-besting performance, Hyundai is introducing the 210-horsepower Coupe 2.0T R-Spec at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show this week.
Consider this new edition as a blank slate for tuners. Priced at just $23,750, it gives enthusiasts an affordable head start on their wrench-turning adventures. The hardware is based on the Track model, with the track-tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, and Torsen limited-slip differential. It also adds a set of front strut camber adjustment bolts to further enhance initial turn-in and handling response. R-Spec comes only with a manual transmission.
While it has the performance goodies, the R-Spec eliminates “non-essential” features for both cost and, to a lesser degree, weight, including Bluetooth, automatic headlights, cruise control, trip computer, chrome interior accents, and steering wheel audio controls.
The R-Spec does retain air conditioning, keyless entry, six-speaker audio system, and power windows/locks/mirrors. Further, the safety systems carry over, including front, side, and side-curtain air bags, as well as active front head rests.
When all is said and done, the Genesis Coupe R-Spec is priced $3,000 less than the 2.0T Track model, leaving tuners with extra cash for their own choice of aftermarket performance upgrades. The R-Spec will be offered in three exteriors colors: Karussell White, Bathurst Black, and Tsukuba Red.
The R-Spec is en route to dealers now.
Read our Hyundai Genesis Coupe review, and research Hyundai in the new car buyer’s guide.