2008 Hyundai Tiburon: Road Test
2008 Hyundai Tiburon ▼
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- MSRP: $17,025 -$22,525
- Invoice: $16,338 -$21,085
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Our road test for the 2008 Hyundai Tiburon includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Hyundai Tiburon from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Hyundai Tiburon, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Hyundai Tiburon help you decide if a 2008 Hyundai Tiburon is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6.6 |
Only V6 models have been made available for Consumer Guide testing so far. Manual-transmission Tiburons feel peppy but require lots of shifting. In tests, a 6-speed SE clocked 0-60 mph in 7.7 sec with firm, precise shift action. Automatic-transmission models are noticeably slower; Hyundai says 0-60 mph in 8.2 sec. The automatic saps midrange punch, but using the manual shift gate helps.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, SEs averaged 15.7 mpg in tests with gas-eating acceleration runs, 22.1 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Both engines use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4.1 |
Large, sharp bumps are noticeable and the car may jiggle on rippled surfaces, but the solid structure helps mitigate harshness. The ride is reasonably supple for a sporty coupe, even with SE's sport suspension.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 |
Tiburon corners well with modest body lean and mild front-drive noseplow. Steering is a bit light, except on SE, but it is quick and informative. SE has a traction control and an antiskid system standard; the other models should offer it, too. The ABS brakes furnish quick and drama-free stops.
QUIETNESS
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.4 |
The V6 engine intrudes under full power and coarse-surface tire noise is marked. Wind rush is acceptable in gentle cruising, but excess buffeting discourages lowered windows even at modest speeds.
CONTROLS
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
The dashboard recalls the sporty Audi TT's design and has upscale blue lighting. Gauges are legible, if a tad small. Controls are mostly simple and handy, but some drivers may find that the steering wheel doesn't tilt high enough for comfortable leg clearance.
DETAILS
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 |
The cabin's good-looking trim belies Tiburon's pricing and includes ample soft-touch surfaces.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.4 |
The low-slung seats tax entry and exit, plus they combine with shallow side windows for a closed-in feel. Even so, six-footers should be comfortable once in, though the sunroof limits head clearance. Rear visibility is hampered by the sloping roofline.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 1.4 |
Unsuitable for occupants over 5-ft-6 because of the low roof and rear window--as a sticker inside the hatch lid warns. Entry and exit is very tight.
CARGO ROOM
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 |
Tiburon's hatchback design and split folding rear seat are practical. Small-item storage is okay, but many rivals do better.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 6 |
It's not that quick or refined even with the V6, and the basic design is aging, but Tiburon is a solid and capable sporty coupe. Budget-friendly prices and Hyundai's long warranties make it a good alternative to the Scion tC or a high-line Honda Civic coupe.
Total Score
| GT, automatic | SE | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 51 | 52 | 54 |
Total Score: 52
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