2003 Hyundai Tiburon: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This fast-growing South Korean automaker redesigns its sporty hatchback coupe for 2003. The restyled Tiburon gets slightly larger dimensions and gains about 200 lb, but adds an available V6 engine. Base and GT V6 models are offered. Base Tiburons retain a 2.0-liter 4-cyl engine. GT V6s get the 2.7-liter V6 used in Hyundai's Santa Fe SUV and Sonata sedan. Standard is a 5-speed manual transmission and optional is a 4-speed automatic with manual shift gate. A 6-speed manual is optional on the GT V6. Base models use 16-inch wheels, GT V6s have 17s. Both have standard 4-wheel disc brakes and front side airbags. ABS is optional. Traction control is unavailable, but a sunroof is optional. The GT V6 adds leather upholstery and is available with a rear spoiler and aluminum pedals. Hyundai's warranty is among the industry's longest: 5-years/60,000-mi. bumper-to-bumper, 10/100,000 powertrain.

COMPETITION

Our only Best Buy in this class is the fun-to-drive Acura RSX. It offers plenty of thrills for the money with impressive acceleration and great handling.

Formerly a Best Buy, Volkswagen New Beetle still features interesting blend of styling, comfort, performance, and economy. If raw performance is what you are after, we Recommend Toyota Celica. This car offers a lot of bang for your buck, but, like all sporty coupes, may not be the greatest daily driver. New to the class is the Mini Cooper, a well-mannered small car, with sophisticated driving dynamics spoiled only by a ride that too easily becomes harsh on imperfect pavement. Because it is new and available in limited numbers, dealers are not discounting.