2003 Hyundai Tiburon GT

Interesting news: Hyundai-that Korean purveyor of previously entry-level, somewhat marginal-quality products-has been doing its homework and upping its game. The latest evidence is a new sporty coupe that's not only a surprisingly nice car, but actually fun to drive. Hyundai's all-new '03 Tiburon is a worthy replacement for the previous cramped and buzzy version. Highlights include a wider, stronger chassis, fresh bodywork, more safety gear, and the nameplate's first-ever V-6 engine.

The old Tiburon's overstyled sheetmetal was scrapped in favor of a sleeker shape offering improved aerodynamics with a Cd of 0.34-seven percent better than the previous model. Squint at it in just the right light and you might see-dare we say?-a hint of Ferrari 456GT styling. Best of all, there's no dorky body kit, no oversize wing, no funny-looking headlights, and it's devoid of non-functional scoops.

The interior is fully redesigned and offers added head- and legroom, easy-to-read gauges, and well-done switchgear. However, it's the Keiper/Recaro-style sport seats with their extra-long seat cushions, good side support, and memory presets that really impress. The sound system does, too. Knowing the tastes of the Tiburon's target demographic, Hyundai stepped up to a premium-quality 280-watt, seven speaker Harman/ Kardon-tuned Infinity setup, replete with trunk-mounted subwoofer.

The best sound emanates from underhood courtesy of the new 2.7L Delta-series V-6 that churns out a respectable 181 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. The engine bay has a refined, almost Mercedes-like look. Power is useable and smooth, without the buzziness of the old engine. It mates well to the new six-speed manual gearbox, which offers positive shifts and helps keep the V-6 in its powerband. When driven over a variety of highways and mountain roads, the Hyundai proved fairly tight and agile, though delivering a stiffer-than-expected ride over rough road surfaces.

The new Tiburon GT impressed us with its looks and performance-and its well-equipped price of about 18K. It should play successfully against its main, often pricier competition-Celica, Integra, and Eclipse. Add in its industry-best 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and the Tiburon evidences not only low price, but outstanding value.

What's Hot
* Great value
* Outstanding warranty
* Attractive styling

What's Not
* If only it had 200 hp!
* Rough ride on bad surfaces
* Still tight on back-seat room
For a direct link to this manufacturer's Web site, go to motortrend.com.