| All-new sportscar | 2008 New York Auto Show | Hyundai Genesis |

Hyundai took the opportunity of the New York International Auto Show to reveal its new rear-wheel drive Genesis coupé. It uses a 3.8-litre V6 engine with 306bhp or a 207bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre and will act as a range-topping model for Hyundai in the USA and its home market in Korea.

Plans to bring the Genesis to the UK have been upset as the car will not meet European safety regulations. However, Hyundai UK says it could bring in small numbers of the Genesis under Single Vehicle Approval rules that would allow 500 cars per year to be registered.

Both the 2.0-litre and 3.8 V6 have a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while the rear suspension is a new multi-link design to deliver good handling. Eighteen-inch alloy wheels are fitted for the USA market and 19-inch alloys are an option.

There's no word on potential pricing for the UK, but Hyundai has hinted that the 2.0-litre would start in the low £20,000s. Hyundai UK managing director Tony Whitehorn says: "We would love to bring this amazing car to the UK and are keeping a close eye on public reaction to see if there is enough demand from British driving enthusiasts."

Alisdair Suttie - 21 Mar 2008