Genesis Coupe Drops Little Turbo - It Needs a V8

According to the article in AutoNews, Hyundai spokesman Derek Joyce said a 3.8-liter V-6 engine will be the only powertrain available in Hyundai’s rear-drive sports car. The car’s equipment and packaging will also be reconfigured to make up for the loss of less-expensive models powered by the 2-liter turbo.

The disappearance of the 2.0-liter turbo makes sense in keeping with the Genesis' upscale image that is, in part, driven by its powerful engines in the sedan. The 2.0-liter turbo just didn't fit with the powerful brand. Plus, if Hyundai wants to compete with the likes of the Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro it can't have a four-cylinder engine, even one that produces 274 horsepower and 275 lb. ft. of torque.

It opens up the more interesting question: can the new Genesis coupe accommodate a V8 under the hood? That would turn it into a true Korean muscle car. The V8 in the sedan produces 429 horsepower and 383 lb. ft. of torque. The big question is if there is enough room in the coupe's design to accommodate the V8 engine. One thinks there will be because that would mean a two-door sports coupe capable most likely of a 0-60 time of 5 seconds or less.

Joyce, when contacted directly by TorqueNews, said he couldn't provide any additional details beyond what was reported. But, he didn't come out and deny any of the questions posed to him about the possibility of a V8 engine. He also did not provide information on when the new Hyundai Genesis Coupe would debut. An educated guess would be at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

Keith Griffin has been writing continuously about new cars since 2002. He used to be the guide to used cars at former About.com as well as a contributor to The Boston Globe and Automotive Traveler. He is the founder and president of The Internet Car and Truck of the Year, where "Internet Pros and Average Joes" pick the car and truck of the year. Currently, Keith is the managing editor for American Business Media. Follow Keith at @indepthauto on Twitter.