Sporty, Sophisticated and Stingy
When I first drove the 2003 Tiburon at its introduction in Las Vegas I was impressed. Behind the stylish new sheetmetal was real-deal substance, including V6 power and a slick 6-speed manual to allow the Hyundai credible fighting rights against Acura's RSX Type-S, Toyota's Celica GT-S and the legendary VW GTI.
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| The bright yellow Tiburon Tuscani has all the goodies sought after by sports coupe buyers. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
Since then Hyundai has created a special Tuscani edition, featuring all the go-fast goodies sports coupe buyer's want, a distinct interior treatment and a brilliant coat of bright yellow paint. Its sharp styling is enhanced further by a medieval script 'T' badge gracing the rear decklid, where the Hyundai 'H' normally sits.
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| While the 170-hp 2.7-L V6 engine doesn't lead the competition in horsepower, its 181 lb-ft of torque beats out most. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
But these are just appearances. Under the long hood lies Hyundai's beefy 2.7-L V6, sporting 170-hp at 6,000 rpm. While not as powerful as the Acura, Toyota or either Volkswagen 1.8-L or 2.8-L GTI, it boasts considerably more torque than all except the VW GTI VR6 at 181 lb-ft.
That's why it feels so good getting on the gas when coming out of a corner. Power is always there when it's needed. It doesn't rev to the stratosphere like its Asian competitors, a pro or con depending on your priorities, but comfortably goes about its business, throaty exhaust note and all. Zero to 100 km/h takes a respectably quick 7.5 seconds, not quite as fast as the Acura, Toyota or VW GTI VR6, but speedier than the GTI 1.8T.