Car and Driver: Hyundai To Take On BMW M4 with N-tuned Genesis Coupe

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Nobody can accuse Hyundai of lacking ambition. Not only will the newly announced upmarket Genesis range consist of six models by 2020, but we’ve also learned that the Hyundai’s recently launched “N” performance division will be developing a model aimed at the BMW M4.

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The company’s recent hiring strategy makes clear where its ambitions lie. It poached Albert Biermann, formerly chief engineer for BMW M, to head up the N division. The first product to emerge from that division will be an N version of the front-drive i30 hatchback, primarily aimed at Europe; but after conversations with Biermann and other senior Hyundai executives, we expect that the second will be an N-tuned version of the upcoming Genesis G70 coupe.

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The G70, of course, is the smaller (and as yet unseen) sedan that will slot below the existing G80 and the recently launched G90 in the Genesis lineup, and which will spawn a sportier two-door sibling. Biermann describes the G70 as being a “whole new animal” compared to the other cars, sharing their rear-drive layout but with a new platform and “different axle concepts.” He adds, “This will be more on the sporty side already in the normal version, so you [can] expect [a] really nice-handling car… that platform is good for a lot of power.”

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Where might that power will come from? Genesis has the Tau 5.0-liter V-8 to call upon, but Biermann indicates it’s unlikely to be used in the G70. Instead, the newly launched 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 is more likely, although tuned to deliver considerably more than the 365 horsepower claimed for it in the G80; we’d be surprised if it couldn’t either match or beat the M4’s 425 horsepower.

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• Official Photos and Info: Genesis G90 Sedan-
• Hyundai Vision G Concept Signals Design Direction for Expanded Family of Genesis Products-
• BMW M4 Full Coverage: News, Photos, Specs, Reviews, and More-

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Hyundai is determined to add excitement to its reputation for value and dependability. A Genesis G70 N coupe could certainly do that.

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