Pros
While peak gains were modest using the intake, consistent power was made throughout the powerband. Particularly satisfying is the initial torque bump at 2,500 rpm which compensates for the power loss produced by the previous dyno run. The included heat shield serves to isolate the intake from the power-sapping heat generated from the turbo, while the setup maintains use of the factory cold-air inlet. Additionally, this intake greatly intensifies the 'swish' of the factory bypass valve, making the sound more akin to a traditional vent-to-atmosphere blow-off valve.
Cons
The lack of detailed instructions needlessly prolonged the installation, requiring plenty of trial-and-error time to find the correct assembly order to properly seat the intake tube and heat shield.
Parts
3.5-inch aluminum intake tube, AEM DryFlow filter, silicone couplers and clamps, black powdercoated heat shield
Tools
10mm socket, ratchet and extension, flat- and Phillips-head screwdrivers, pliers
Installation Time
30 minutes
Notes
Since the Genesis Coupe employs a speed/density setup to measure incoming airflow, it has none of the issues commonly found on vehicles that employ a MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor when swapping out the factory air box for an aftermarket intake. MAF units typically require an ECU recalibration to function properly.
Pros
Extraordinary low-end power and torque gains were accomplished, thanks to increasing peak boost from the factory-preset 14 psi to 18 psi. Using the VEO COM module, we were able to make real-time changes to the tables via a PC, forgoing the tedious task of shutting down the engine and waiting for a complete re-flash that is common with re-flashing software. Once the calibrations were created, the map was loaded into the PowerX hand-held flash module, allowing the user to switch between two maps or revert back to the factory settings without the need of a PC or trip to the tuner.
Cons
Although PowerAxel had the ability to quickly engineer and market an effective tuning solution for the Genesis Coupe 2.0T less than six months after its debut, the PowerAxel VEO COM software appears to be in developmental stages; it's commanding and effective in the right hands, but unwieldy and dangerous when handled by a novice. After applying the PowerX to the stock map prior to the dyno pull, the vehicle experienced dangerously lean air/fuel ratios and detonation, making it advisable to have PowerAxel or one of their dealers create a custom tune for any bolt-ons: failure to do so could be catastrophic.
Parts
Hardware and software
Tools
Software, tuning experience
Install Time
120 minutes
Notes
As of press time, only a handful of authorized PowerAxel dealers/tuners reside in the U.S., with PowerAxel offering two flash modules for the Genesis coupe 2.0T, both we tested. The first is the VEO COM professional-grade software and hardware suite, intended for professional use by authorized dealer/tuners. Second is the PowerX Module, a handheld consumer re-flashing device that contains a "canned" tune for a stock Genesis Coupe 2.0T. When used in tandem with the VEO COM, the PowerX module can store professional custom calibrations created with the VEO COM, allowing the user to change maps or return the vehicle to its factory setting.
By Brendan Moran
Enjoyed this Post? Subscribe to our RSS Feed, or use your favorite social media to recommend us to friends and colleagues!