2003-2008 Hyundai Tiburon: Road Test

Performance depends on the powertrain. A GT V6 with manual shift feels peppy with lots of shifting. A six-speed model accelerated to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds, but shifter and clutch action are imprecise. Hyundai claimed an 8.2-second time with an automatic transmission, which saps some midrange punch but compensates with its manual shift gate. Still, Tiburon is a relatively heavy small coupe, and this V6 isn't sufficiently potent for its size. Tiburons fare better in fuel economy. Six-speed V6s averaged 15.7 mpg in fast city/freeway driving and performance tests, and 22.1 mpg in mixed city/freeway work. Both engines use regular fuel. Large, sharp bumps can jolt occupants, though the solid structure lessens apparent harshness. Nervous pattering occurs with 17-inch tires on flawed pavement. Capable in most situations, the Tiburon functions with good grip and only moderate body lean. Steering is a bit light and the nose plows in very fast, sharp turns, but high-speed maneuvering is predictable and fun. Braking is strong and stable with ABS installed, but a non-ABS example needed a gentle right foot to avoid early, sudden front-wheel lockup in simulated emergency stops, and its brakes felt touchy even in routine use. Engine noise intrudes under full power, and 17-inch tires generate lots of road roar. Wind rush is acceptable in gentle cruising, but excess buffeting discourages lowered windows even at modest speeds. The dashboard is needlessly stylized, but gauges and most controls are within easy view and reach. Some drivers might find that the manual shift lever is too far back for easiest access to some gears. Cabin materials are not top-grade, but not cheap-looking either. The instrument panel's seven blank switchplates are eyesores, though. Low-slung front seats make entry/exit feel like a chore. Once you're seated, the cabin design imparts a closed-in feel--almost like sitting in a bathtub. Still, even six-footers should be comfortable, though the sunroof limits head clearance and seats could benefit from greater lumbar support. Rear visibility is hampered by thick roof pillars and a sloping rear window. Only youngsters fit in back. Folks over five-feet-six might bang their heads against the roof or rear window--as a sticker inside the hatch lid warns. Entry/exit is difficult, too. Hatchback design and a standard split-fold rear seat are practical, but the available subwoofer (if installed) steals cargo space. Small-items storage is okay, but many rivals do better.

Value for the Money
It's not that quick, refined, or practical, but the Tiburon is a credible effort that's fun to drive. Depreciation tends to be steep, which keeps used-car prices down. Backed by a long warranty, a fully-equipped V6 could be a tempting choice for the budget-conscious sporty-compact crowd.