The Hyundai Genesis Coupe, specifically the facelifted 2012-2013 model year equipped with the 3.8-liter V6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, represented a significant step forward for the South Korean automaker. Introduced as Hyundai’s first rear-wheel-drive coupe, the Genesis Coupe aimed to challenge established sports car players like the Ford Mustang and Nissan 370Z. The 2012 facelift brought revised styling, improved interior materials, and refinements to the chassis, enhancing the car’s overall appeal. This 3.8L automatic variant occupied the premium position within the Genesis Coupe lineup, offering a balance of performance and convenience, appealing to buyers seeking a sporty coupe without the involvement of a manual gearbox.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Genesis |
| Generation | Genesis Coupe (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V6 (303 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.2 l/100 km (15.5 US mpg, 18.6 UK mpg, 6.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg, 9.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 244 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 186.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 221.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 303 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 4700 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Lambda II / G6DA |
| Engine displacement | 3778 cm3 (230.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1622 kg (3575.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 348 kg (767.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 332 l (11.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.28 in.) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Height | 1385 mm (54.53 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm (111.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1601 mm (63.03 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1621 mm (63.82 in.) |
| Front overhang | 835 mm (32.87 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 975 mm (38.39 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R18; 245/45 R18; 225/40 R19; 245/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8.0J x 18; 8.0J x 19; 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Genesis Coupe variant is Hyundai’s Lambda II 3.8-liter V6 engine, designated as the G6DA. This naturally aspirated engine utilizes a 60-degree V-angle configuration, contributing to a smoother power delivery and reduced vibrations. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, optimized for both low-end torque and high-rpm power. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for efficient combustion. The 3.8L V6 produces 303 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 265 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual control. This transmission was chosen for its smooth shifting characteristics and ease of use, catering to drivers who preferred a more relaxed driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to balance acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.8L automatic Genesis Coupe delivers a comfortable yet engaging driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the manual transmission variants, the automatic provides brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6.1 seconds. The automatic transmission’s programming prioritizes smooth shifts, making it well-suited for daily commuting. However, it can feel slightly less responsive during aggressive driving compared to the manual. The rear-wheel-drive layout contributes to balanced handling, although the car’s weight (approximately 3,576 lbs) is noticeable during cornering. The suspension, tuned for a blend of comfort and control, provides a reasonably compliant ride on most road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.8L automatic Genesis Coupe typically came well-equipped, positioning it as the premium trim level. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, automatic climate control, and keyless entry. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded alloy wheels. The interior design featured a driver-focused layout with metallic accents and a generally upscale feel, a significant improvement over earlier Hyundai models.
Chassis & Braking
The Genesis Coupe’s chassis was designed to provide a stable and responsive platform. It utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup helps to minimize body roll and maximize tire contact with the road. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. Steering is rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assist, offering a good balance of feel and ease of use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2012-2013 Genesis Coupe 3.8L automatic received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its stylish design, comfortable interior, and strong performance. However, some noted that the automatic transmission lacked the engagement of the manual and that the car’s weight could hinder its handling agility. Compared to the 2.0T models, the 3.8L offered significantly more power and torque, but at the expense of fuel economy. The 3.8L was also more expensive than the 2.0T, targeting buyers who prioritized outright performance over efficiency. Against competitors like the Ford Mustang and Nissan 370Z, the Genesis Coupe offered a compelling value proposition, providing a similar level of performance and features at a lower price point.
Legacy
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe, particularly the 3.8L V6 automatic variant, played a crucial role in changing perceptions of the Hyundai brand. It demonstrated Hyundai’s ability to produce a genuinely sporty and well-equipped coupe that could compete with established players. While the Genesis Coupe was discontinued after 2016, the 3.8L V6 engine proved to be relatively reliable, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. Today, used examples of the 2012-2013 Genesis Coupe 3.8L automatic are available at affordable prices, making them an attractive option for buyers seeking a stylish and capable rear-wheel-drive coupe.
