Vehicle: 2003 Hyundai Tiburon SE with leather package and 5-speed stick shift

Handling: The most impressive aspect of the original Tiburon was its entertaining handling. With the latest redesign, Hyundai has given the new Tibby a stiffer chassis, firmer suspension/springs and quicker steering; the result is one of the best handling sports coupe I have ever driven. There is an European solidity that severly lacks in many of its competitions. The steering response is quick, linear and very responsive. With the fat 4-spoke leather steering, it provides feedback that’s similar to many European cars costing thousands more. Both the off and on-center feel are top-notch. Body roll doesn’t seem to be an issue even when pressed through corners, however, understeer is a minor quibbles considered its a FF. The only drawback is with only 140hp, this agile chassis makes the Tibby feels underengined considered how much more horses it can handles. Overall, a very impressive dynamic package.

Engine: The SE is powered by a 2.0L 16-valve engine with 140hp and 130 lb/ft of torque. This engine is more than adequate with the 5-speed stick shifter. The power delivery is smooth and refine thoroughout the rev range. The most impressive aspect of this engine is it goes only 2500 rpm @ 100 km/h. Its not only told you it got plenty of torque, it also provides good fuel economy. Hyundai finally solved previous car’s ungainly shifter with the new solid unit. The new shifter has a solid feel without sacificing its crispness, although its not the smoothest shifter I have ever driven. The gearing is well-spaced and the clutch feels progressive. Not too light, not too stiff. Just the right amount of pressure.

Brakes: I had a chance to try a couple of hard stops on the flurry. The braking system has a first-rate pedal feel.

Interior: The built quality is impressive in the new Tiburon. The plastic use inside can shame a lot of so-called luxury cars costing thousands more. Everything are located at ergonomic positions. The heat/ventilation got great marks during this kind of weather. Instrumentation gauges are clear and sporty. Even with a rather low driving position, it feels very comfortable inside. The Recaro sports seats are the best you can get from this price range. However, there’s one drawback. The stereo buttons are way too tiny.

Conclusion: Without a doubt, the new Tiburon will be another homerun for Hyundai. It handles exceptionally well, its very well-built and it looks great. While the 4 banger might make the agile chassis underengined, its more than enough for most buyers. With the V6, this car will almost unbeatable. BTW, those seats are awesome.

VERDICTS FOR 2003 HYUNDAI TIBURON SE
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Performance: 3/5
Handling/fun-to-drive: 4/5
Built quality/fit-and-finish: 4/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Value-for-money: 4.5/5

Overall rating: 4/5