With only a few days of ownership of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0 T (call sign: MDR-1) the MODE Racing crew took a drive to Firebird International Raceway in Phoenix Arizona to do a quick shakedown event at the NASA Super Lap Battle Time Attack. The MDR-1 Genesis Coupe was taken out of its trailer ready for battle equipped with only Motul Racing Fluids, Toyo R888 tires, Enkei NT03+M wheels, and an APR GTC-300 rear wing.

The driver, Billy Brooks, was ready to see how the MDR-1 would stand up against the other street driven, race prepped vehicles in the paddock. After a quick stint in the autocross course at Firebird International Raceway, Billy Brooks was confident that the car will work fine on the track.

After the first practice session and with a few hot laps completed, the MDR-1 came in with a content driver. “The car will obviously need some work with suspension and handling but most of all, it needs power.” Billy Brooks commented, “I believe that MODE Racing will be able to untap the power of the Genesis 2.0 Turbo motor and it will be a whole different car, come next event. Now that I’ve felt how the car is on the track, MODE Racing will take that input that I have received and apply it to our racing products”

Later, the temperature dropped significantly as the event went well into the night. Undeterred, Billy and the MDR-1 were sent back out for another session. Being a relatively stock car, the Genesis was able to keep up with several high horsepower, race prepped vehicles. At times, even keeping up with a Porsche 997 GT3 RS in the tight corners! The MODE Racing team packed up after an exhausting and cold night of racing but were content about how much they’ve learned about the Genesis Coupe 2.0T.

Billy Brooks commented: “We’re looking forward to the next event and especially with generous help that we’re receiving on development of the car from supporters and sponsors. In addition, MODE Racing’s products that will be on the car and ready for other Genesis Coupe owners to own will also help us obtain the winning edge that will bring MODE Racing to the podium within the next few events.”

MODE Racing would like to thank all of the sponsors and supporters that have helped MODE Racing so far: APR Performance, Instyle Graphics, Fizix Media Labs, M2 Motoring, Motul, Seibon Carbon, Memphis Car Audio, Genesisforums.org, Toyo Tires, Robi Spec, JRZ Suspension, HB Speed, and of course the hard working crew of MODE Racing.