2009 SEMA Show - Hyundai's SEMA Genesis Coupes: One Canvas, Three Ideas

Skeptics who doubt Hyundai's commitment to driving enthusiasts should know that the world's fourth-largest automaker began its SEMA press conference by popping one car's hood — and one car's hatch. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe RM460 plucks the Genesis Sedan's Tau V8, peppers it with power-adders, and places it squarely in between the Coupe's rear strut towers. The engine's polished, hatch-high intake flutes are visually arresting, and crown the tuned Tau's promise of 500 horsepower. It's also nice to finally see a manual transmission fitted to Hyundai's big V8, even if the RM450 is just a concept.

Tuners inspired by the RM460 can now start with a blank canvas. The Genesis Coupe R-Spec 2.0T deletes pricey conveniences like a trip computer and cruise control in favor of the Track model's limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes and an R-Spec-exclusive adjustable front camber system. The result is a lighter, more basic Genesis that costs $3,000 less than the loaded Track 2.0T. Shoppers who remember the first Subaru Impreza WRX STi's deleted audio system or the Honda S2000 CR's lack of air conditioning shouldn't worry: the Genesis R-Spec retains those conveniences.

Of Hyundai's factory-backed Genesis Coupes at SEMA, Hennessey Performance Engineering's example had the philanthropic edge. Hyundai donated a Coupe to Hennessey's Tuner School program, a 14-week program for 25 students who learn how to modify vehicles and maximize their cars' performance at the track. Students transformed the HPE Tuner School Genesis into a 380-wheel horsepower racer. Students interested in preparing themselves for a career in the automotive aftermarket should bring money: Tuner School tuition begins at $14,675.

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