Gary Rome Hyundai

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Gets Some Performance Cred - Courtesy of Brembo

SEOUL, South Korea -- Taking a page from performance giant Porsche, Hyundai said it will offer Brembo brakes as an option on its 2010 Genesis Coupe. The Korean automaker said this is the first Hyundai ever to be fitted with Brembo brakes.

It is yet another step forward for Hyundai, as the company attempts to move away from its value leader image.

The high-performance disc brakes from Brembo will be available as part of an optional track-use performance package on the Genesis Coupe. No word yet on pricing for this option. The Genesis Coupe is set to go on sale in September in Korea, followed by a North American launch in spring 2009.

"By specifying Brembo brakes, we are sending a strong message about the performance capabilities of the Genesis Coupe," said Dr. Hyun-Soon Lee, president of Hyundai's corporate research and development division. "Among car aficionados, Brembo's oversized caliper design is recognized as one of the hallmarks of a high-performance car. They grab attention and will force people to take a second, closer look at the Genesis Coupe."

The Genesis Coupe, Hyundai's rear-wheel-drive sports car, gets an optional performance-tuned 3.8-liter V6 that delivers an estimated 306 horsepower. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 that makes an estimated 212 hp.

What this means to you: Those signature red Brembo brakes telegraph a powerful performance message about Hyundai's intent to improve its stature on the street. -- Hoseok Park, Correspondent