1997-2001 Hyundai Tiburon: Road Test

Though the 2.0-liter engine is a little smoother and quieter than the first-year 1.8-liter four, it also disappoints, generating a loud, crude growl during even moderate acceleration. The growling does not smooth out fully when cruising, either. Furthermore, road noise and suspension thumping grow annoying, making Tiburon quite unpleasant on a long trip. Acceleration from a standstill and from midrange speeds qualifies only as adequate--not lively enough to satisfy the enthusiastic driver. An automatic transmission slows progress substantially. An automatic Tiburon averaged an appealing 25 mpg in a mix of urban commuting and rush-hour expressway driving. Handling is one of the car's greatest strengths--sporty and secure, with well-managed body lean through turns. A Tiburon pulls through sweeping curves with good grip and stability. Firm steering has plenty of road feel, centering quickly after turns. Large bumps and dips can yield mild floatiness, however. A comfortable ride is another of this coupe's prime attributes. The ride is taut, but without lapsing into harshness. The driver gets a low, snug driving position, facing a well-arranged dashboard. Back-seat space is no more than a joke, for anyone above toddler size. Entry/exit isn't so easy, even into front seats. Visibility is above average for a sports coupe, despite the car's curvy shape.

Value for the Money
Attractively and distinctively styled, the Tiburon can be a good bargain-priced alternative to Ford's Probe as well as the Nissan 200SX. Although Tiburon ranks far ahead of the old Scoupe, however, it does no more than score dead even with other small sporty coupes, and behind some of them.