Walking around this car, diehard European sports car people grow a little pale. Their muffled sighs become more agitated by the moment. A look of disbelief writes itself across their faces as they mumble, "Could it be? Is this car as good as it looks? Has another Asian carmaker tread on the sacred ground of the makes we've worshipped for decades?" The answers are yes, yes and yes.

There's no denying the facts - the 2010 Hyundai Genesis coupe is a proper, rear-wheel-drive sports car capable of going toe-to-toe with the best in this class.

Hyundai launched its first coupe back in 1996. While the early models were nothing to write home about, the car has been continually improved upon until now, when it's clearly morphed itself into a formidiable performer.

Looking at the coupe, the first thing you'll notice is its very squat stance. Our test car came in a striking metalic charcoal grey. The color really seems to bring out the best of the car's bold lines. Along the sides handsome shoulder lines give way to bulbous rear haunches. Hood lines, plumped up to cater to the large V-6 mill, integrate seemleesly into the aggressive nose cone. All in all it's a well thought-out design.

Inside you'll find more of the same attention to detail. Nearly every piece of the interior smacks of quality. The seats (our car came in a very suitable, basketball-like leather) are not only comfortable but provide excellent support as well. The matching leather door panels give a first-class feel to the cabin. Hooded instruments on the dash have a stunning blue lighting aplication. Overall it's a pleasant place to be and there were no detectable rattles to be found.