Armed with 19″ wheels, a Brembo braking system and a Torsen limited slip differential, I knew I was going to have some fun with the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec–and boy, was this car fun.

Our Genesis R-Spec Coupe had a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission paired with a 348hp 3.8L V6. Although it was raining while I was driving, the rear-wheel-drive held up and there was never any wheel spin.

On the outside of the car, you had a classy Tsukuba Red paint job which complemented the red leather seats on the inside. Additional exterior features included LED tail lights and driving lights and some stylish hood scoops.

There was a great amount of technology on the inside and under the hood–including Bluetooth hands-free, SiriusXM radio with iPod & USB connectivity, as well as a track tuned suspensions, strut brace with low-velocity control dampers and front camber adjustment. Oh, and did I mention that it had a torquemeter mounted front and center?

Performance on the car was astounding, with acceleration that brings you up to 60 miles an hour in 5 seconds flat. Both city and highway driving proved to be enjoyable and the seats kept you firmly in place whenever you utilized some “spirited” driving.

Overall, this was a great car with one-of-a-kind looks, cool technology and awesome performance to boot. With an as-tested price of $29,645 and with 348hp & 0-60 in 5 seconds, it’s a pretty sweet deal.

Pros: Cool hood scoops, great looking interior, nice exterior lines and the torque gauge was an awesome touch.

Cons: Transmission can feel loose at times; I wish the hood scoops were functional

QUICK FACTS:

Base Price: $24,250 || Price as Tested: $29,645

Vehicle Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, four-passenger, 2-door coupe

Engine: 3.8-liter, 6-cylinder, 348-hp,  295 lb-ft torque || Transmission: 6-speed manual

Curb Weight:  3,433 lbs || Length/Width/Height: 182.3/73.4/54.5 inches

0-60:   5.0 seconds || EPA City/Highway Fuel Economy: 18/27 MPG

RATING: 8.2/10

Exterior: 8

Interior: 8

Acceleration: 9

Braking: 9

Ride: 7

Handling: 8

Gearbox: 8

Audio: 8

Tech: 8

Value: 9

We’d like to thank Matesha at Hyundai of New Rochelle for getting us into the sporty Genesis Coupe. For all of your Hyundai needs, go check out Hyundai of New Rochelle in New Rochelle, NY and online at http://www.newrochellehyundai.com/. Make sure you tell her Greg from The Autocracy sent you!