Hyundai’s successful Genesis Coupe is entering the 2011 model year in the U.S. with some minor interior refinements, but most importantly, a new hotter model called the “3.8 R-Spec”.

Previously available only in conjunction with the 210HP 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the R-Spec trim level can now be ordered with the 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 306-horsepower and 266 lb.-ft. of torque on regular unleaded, hooked up exclusively to a six-speed manual gearbox.

The R-Spec treatment does away with some non-essential comfort features such as automatic headlights, cruise control and certain trim bits adding a track-tuned, stiffer suspension, 19-inch alloys shod in Bridgestone Potenza tires, limited slip differential and Brembo brakes with 13.4-inch front discs and 13.0-inch rear discs. Sportier seats and special badging are also part of the package.

New 3.8 R-Spec model aside, all 2011 Genesis Coupe models benefit from interior improvements including new soft-touch materials on the door panels, center speaker grille, glove box, and lower instrument panel as well as on the steering wheel, cloth-wrapped A-pillars, different finishes on the shift bezel, dashboard knobs and instrument gauge cluster rings.

Hyundai has not yet announced pricing for the 2011 Genesis Coupe.