2007 SEMA Show: Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept

It’s day one of the 2007 SEMA show in Las Vegas, and by some estimations the biggest news is coming from Hyundai. Yes, that Hyundai – the one from Korea that’s gained a reputation for building inexpensive small cars backed by a 100,000-mile warranty. That started to change with rides like the Azera sedan, the Veracruz crossover, the Genesis Sedan concept, and now word comes of a Genesis Coupe Concept. Based on these sketches, this ride holds big potential.

By Thom Blackett Photo credit: Hyundai

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Hyundai is a company that has made great progress in the North American automotive market, coming a long way since the dismal days of the first Excel. But the company is not where it wants to be in terms of sales, and to break through a possible plateau it is launching products designed to expand the perception of Hyundai. The spacious Veracruz crossover is already available, and news of upcoming rear-wheel-drive Genesis Sedan has definitely raised curiosity about the brand. Announcing the production of a rear-wheel-drive, high-horsepower coupe will surely stir more interest in the brand, and just may have some competitors’ heads spinning.

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Hyundai is withholding specific information until the Genesis Coupe debuts in concept form at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, followed by the introduction of a production model at the 2008 New York Auto Show. Until then, we’re left with bits such as “300-horsepower 3.8-liter V-6” and “available six-speed transmissions” which suggests, with or without a clutch pedal, there’ll be six gears. There will also be a five-link rear suspension.

Also worthy of note are more details on the Genesis Sedan, making its production debut at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. The V-8 that we already knew about is now reported to push  “at least 350 horsepower.”