Hyundai Coupe

Hyundai Tiburon
Manufacturer Hyundai Motor Company
Also called Hyundai Coupe (Europe and Middle East)
Tuscani (South Korea and Singapore)
Production 1996–2008
Predecessor Hyundai Scoupe
Successor Hyundai Veloster
Class Coupé
Body style 2-door 2+2 coupe
Layout FF layout

The Hyundai Tiburon (Korean: 현대 티뷰론) known as the Hyundai Coupe (현대 쿠페) or Tuscani (투스카니) in some markets, is a compact coupe that was produced by Hyundai Motor Company from 1996 to 2008. The name "Tiburon", meaning "shark" in Spanish, is the name given to the North American, Australian, New Zealand, South African, and Austrian production of the vehicle. It is known as the Hyundai Coupe in some European markets.[1] It has been branded as the Tuscani (투스카니) and Turbulence (터뷸런스) in the home South Korean market.

The model has been released in two generations (RC and GK) over its lifespan and in that time these generations have been subject to periodic facelifts. These facelifts have attempted to keep the car up to date with various safety improvements and a mixture of changes to exterior and interior styling. The RC Tiburon was in production for 5 years from 1996 to 2001. The GK Tiburon has been produced since 2002 (as a 2003 model) and ended production in 2008.[2]

Contents

First generation (RC) (1996–1999) and (RC2) (1999–2001)

First generation
Also called Hyundai Tiburon
Hyundai Tiburon Turbulence (KDM Facelift)
Production 1996–2001
Assembly Asan, South Korea
Engine 1.6 L (111 hp), 1.8 L (130 hp), or 2.0 L I4 Beta I DOHC (140 hp)
Transmission 4-speed automatic
5-speed manual
Wheelbase 97.4 in (2,474 mm)
Length 1996–1999: 170.8 in (4,338 mm)
1999–2001: 171.0 in (4,343 mm)
Width 1996–1999: 68.1 in (1,730 mm)
1999–2001: 70.5 in (1,791 mm)
Height 51.7 in (1,313 mm)
Related Hyundai Elantra

RC (1996–1999)

Tiburon first began production in late 1996. It was available in a few foreign markets with engine choices of either 1.6L or 1.8L. In the United States, the Tiburon was first offered in 1997 with base models using the Elantra's 1.8L 130 hp (97 kW) engine while the upscale FX received a 2.0L four-cylinder engine. The 2.0L was rated at 140 hp (104 kW) at the crankshaft (the car's manual specifies 102 kW (137 hp) at the flywheel). Base weight was around 2,550 lb (1,150 kg), giving the RC Tiburon a higher power-to-weight ratio than the newer GK 2.0L. The 2.0L produces a 0–60 mph time of ~8.3,[3] with a 1/4 mile time of ~16 seconds. In 1998 the Tiburon lost its weaker 1.8L engine, giving both models the 2.0L. All versions of the Tiburon manufactured from 1996–2002 are known as "RC" Tiburons. There were various options, with or without ABS, 2 airbags, leather, and sunroof. Auto motor und sport magazine, revealed in 1996, that Porsche contributed for the suspension system of the car. They used hi-pressure nitrogen shock absorbers. Additionally, at the front they used base wishbones and at the rear axle, double transverse bars with McPherson struts. The magazine described the result as "the best combination of comfort/grip and sport feeling, at this vehicle's class".

RC Special Editions (UK) - F2 and F2 Evolution

Various special editions were also produced, focusing primarily on cosmetic modifications and improvements. In the UK, Hyundai's entrance into the Formula 2 World Rally Championship saw the release of the "F2" and "F2 Evolution" models in 1998 and 1999 respectively.

The "F2" (non Evolution) was released in July 1998. Only available in the UK, the "F2" model sold approximately 1100 units in total during 1998 and 1999, (making the "F2" a slightly rarer model than the "F2 Evolution" which followed). An enhanced version of the UK-spec 2.0 SE, the "F2" was available in a choice of three colours; Black (solid), Bright Silver (metallic), or Racing Blue (mica). (This latter colour, a vivid bright blue, was unique to the "F2"; no other Hyundai models were ever made available in Racing Blue (mica)). The "F2" modifications included 16" diameter x 7.5J multispoke DTM-style alloy wheels. These wheels were fitted with carbon-fibre effect centre-caps incorporating the "F2" logo within. According to Hyundai's "Coupe F2 Tyre Supplement Handbook", (supplied with each new Coupe F2), these were described as "Motorsport-style alloy wheels". Tyres were Pirelli 225/40/16 P7000 directional, their 225 width and 40 profile made these the most aggressive standard-fit tyre supplied with any RC (or RC2) Hyundai Coupe. The "F2" also featured a deeper and more aggressive front spoiler, incorporating an oval chrome mesh grille insert. There was also "F2" badging on the front wings and rear valance, an uprated CD/tuner stereo by Sony (CDX C580R-RDS), "Coupe F2" monogrammed aluminium kick plates, a unique leather-and-aluminium gearstick and a discreet "Coupe F2" badge on the ashtray fascia. The front carpet mats were inlaid with rectangular silver-coloured "Coupe F2" badges. According to the Hyundai F2 brochure, total on-the-road price was £17,999 (as of July 1998). [4]

Two further items were available free to the first five-hundred Hyundai Coupe F2 buyers. Firstly, there was a large aluminium-bound "F2" art book, (including various artistic photographs and designer images of the Coupe F2). These books were signed inside by rally driver Kenneth Eriksson, (one of Hyundai's drivers in the F2 World Rally Championship at the time). Secondly, there was an aluminium key-fob, fitted with an LED light and supplied in a small silver-coloured box labelled "Lexon Design Concept". Both of these items were packaged together in a large silver cardboard box with "F2" printed onto the lid. These items were supplied by the dealer upon collection of the new car. During 1998, there was prominent press and billboard advertising in the UK to promote the new "Coupe F2". These advertisements incorporated the tag-line, "On average, men think about the F2 every 6 seconds."

The "F2 Evolution" became available on 14 June 1999, almost one-year after the "F2" had appeared. The "F2" was discontinued and the new "F2 Evolution" effectively replaced it. The "F2 Evolution" was available with just two colour options, either Silver (metallic) or Cobalt Blue (metallic). It was intended as a limited edition of 1500 units, (though 1513 units were eventually produced). The design was led by McLaren F1 stylist Peter Stevens in conjunction with Hyundai World Rally Team's support company Motor Sports Developments (MSD).

Standard 2.0 SE Coupes were delivered to MSD for mechanical and cosmetic modification. These modifications included a bigger front bumper/spoiler, a modified (larger and higher) rear spoiler with end-plates (these spoilers were designed by Stevens to produce more downforce), a high-lift inlet camshaft (taken from the 1997 1.8 litre Lantra engine), a 6"x4" freeflow exhaust by Magnex, 16" diameter x 7.0J 5-spoke alloy wheels (with Yokohama 205/45/16 tyres), cream instrument dials incorporating "F2 Evolution" logos, "F2 Evolution" badging on the front wings and rear valance, a Thatcham-approved Category 1 alarm/immobiliser system, an uprated Sony stereo, "Coupe F2 Evolution" monogrammed aluminium kick plates and thicker lambswool carpets. The front carpet mats were inlaid with silver-coloured circular "Coupe F2 Evolution" badges. The armrest lid between the front seats was covered in stitched leather (rather than the molded plastic found on lesser models). The gear leaver gaiter was of smooth leather, with a chrome trim surround at the base. The gear-knob was of a unique design and had a chrome finish.

The mechanical changes were limited to the camshaft and exhaust improvements. Together these modifications saw an increase in power to 154 hp (115 kW) and torque to 140 lb·ft (190 N·m).[5]

Each car was fitted with a metal MSD badge riveted onto the bulkhead inside the engine bay. This badge displayed the MSD build number of each particular conversion to "F2 Evolution" spec.

Unlike with the previous year's "F2" model, this time no dealer-supplied art-book was supplied. However, a range of "F2 Evolution" lifestyle accessories were made available through Hyundai dealerships, such as "F2 Evolution" branded clothing and umbrellas.

According to Hyundai's product-launch literature, total on-the-road price for the "F2 Evolution" was £19,299 (as of June 1999).

RD2 (1999–2001)

The RD2 Tiburon is an update on the original RD platform and was released for sale in 1999. The RD2 received a facelift that altered the front and rear bumpers and also provided a refreshed interior dash. In South Korea, the RD2 Tiburon was marketed as the "Tiburon Turbulence".

The RD2 headlights have separate enclosures for the high and low beams giving the four headlight look, similar to the third generation Acura Integra and the sixth generation Toyota Celica. The rear bumper is also reformed receiving larger taillights. The same 140 hp (104 kW) 2.0L engine was carried over producing identical performance. ABS, leather seats, and a sunroof were available in a package, but oddities such as a car with cloth seats and a sunroof, but no fog lights or spoiler, are not unheard of.

Engineering

111 hp (83 kW; 113 PS) @ 5800 rpm and 143 N•m (106 ft•lbf) torque @ 4,500 rpm.

130 hp (97 kW; 132 PS) @ 6000 rpm and 171 N•m (122 ft•lbf) torque @ 5000 rpm.

140 hp (104 kW; 142 PS) @ 6000 rpm and 180 N•m (133 ft•lbf) torque @ 4800 rpm.

From 1997 to 1999 The Tiburon was offered with a 5-speed manual transmission standard while a 4 speed automatic w/ overdrive was optional.

Performance

Acceleration 0–60 mph: 10.8 seconds Top speed: 110 mph (177 km/h) (Auto) 120 mph (193 km/h) (Manual)[3]

Acceleration 0–60 mph: 9.0 seconds Top speed: 123 mph (198 km/h)

Acceleration 0–60 mph: 8.3 seconds Top Speed: 123 mph (198 km/h) (Auto) 125 mph (201 km/h) (Manual)[3]

Second generation (GK) (2003–present)

Second generation
Also called Hyundai Tuscani
Hyundai Tiburon
Hyundai Coupe SIII
Production 2001–2008
Model years 2001–2009 (Europe and Middle East)
2003–2008 (US)
Assembly Ulsan, South Korea
İzmit, Turkey (Hyundai Assan)
Thonburi, Thailand (TAAP)
Engine 1.6 L I4 (105 hp)
2.0 L I4 Beta II CVVT (138 hp)
2.7 L Delta V6 (167 bhp) (172 hp),
Transmission 4-speed automatic
5-speed manual (Tuscani GL/GT/GTS/ Coupe GK GS/GT)
6-speed manual (Tuscani GTR/GTSII/ELISA, Coupe GK GT V6/SE, FX)
Wheelbase 99.6 in (2,530 mm)
Length 173.0 in (4,394 mm)
Width 69.3 in (1,760 mm)
Height 52.3 in (1,328 mm) (2003–05)
52.4 in (1,331 mm) (2006–present)
Curb weight 2,718 lb (1,233 kg) (1.6L)
2,822 lb (1,280 kg) (2.0L)
2,898 lb (1,315 kg) (2.0L Auto)
3,020 lb (1,370 kg) (2.7L)
3,042 lb (1,380 kg) (2.7L Auto)
Related Hyundai Elantra
Hyundai Matrix
Hyundai Tucson
Kia Spectra
Kia Sportage

The previous-generation Tiburon was discontinued after 2002. Hyundai launched a revised Tiburon in 2002 for the 2003 model year, giving it new styling, larger dimensions, and an optional V6 engine. Tiburon's wheelbase and overall length grew slightly compared to the previous version, increasing curb weight by about 200 pounds (91 kg). Base and GT V6 models were offered, both with standard front side airbags and optional anti-lock brakes. Base Tiburons retained a new 138 hp (103 kW) 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, while GT V6 coupes got the new 2.7-liter 172 hp (128 kW) V6 from Hyundai's Sonata and Santa Fe. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, and a four-speed automatic was optional. The automatic unit had a manual shift gate. Also optional on the GT V6 was a six-speed manual gearbox. Base models and GT V6 automatics rode on 16-inch tires, versus 17-inch for the GT V6 manual models. Both had standard four-wheel disc brakes. Leather upholstery was standard in the GT V6, as well as a rear spoiler (high spoiler std. on 6-speed only). Aluminum pedals and a sunroof were optional.

In 2004, all GT V6's received the high spoiler, 17" wheels, and ABS as standard equipment. A "special edition" of the GT V6 was also released. It featured a "Special Edition" decal-style badge underneath "Tiburon", sport cloth upholstery, a Kenwood stereo, red painted front brake calipers, and multigauges above the radio. Only the 6-speed and automatic transmissions were available. The special edition was available in Jet Black, Rally Red, and Sunburst Yellow only. The new design received praise from a number of automotive journalists, some of which compared it to the Ferrari 456.[6]

In 2005 Hyundai facelifted the Tiburon and reshuffled the model lineup; offering GS, GT, and SE models. The SE was now a separate trim from the GT models. Hyundai's four-cylinder engine went into the GS, while the other two held the 2.7-liter V6. A five-speed manual transmission was standard. A four-speed automatic with a manual shift was optional for GS and GT models, but the SE had exclusive use of a six-speed manual gearbox. Anti-lock brakes was standard on the SE and optional for the GT coupe, which could be equipped with leather upholstery. GS coupes rode on 16-inch wheels, versus 17-inch for other models. All-disc brakes and front side airbags were standard. Anti-lock brakes were made standard on all 2006 model Tiburons.[7]

In the UK, three models were available before and after the 2005 facelift: the 1.6S, 2.0SE and V6. The 1.6S had a single exhaust and leather seats were optional, although following the 2005 facelift half-leather seats were standard. Both other models have twin exhausts and leather seats as standard. The six-speed gearbox was also standard on the V6 model.

A popular modification saw owners of the first GK model removing the air-filter resonator box. The resonator box was located directly in front of the front left hand side wheel, behind the fender. This allowed for a greater airflow to the air filter, gaining a minimal increase of brake horse power (bhp). Hyundai, seeking cost cuts, adopted this modification for 2004+ models. Hyundai also released a new color for their 2006 Tiburon called Regatta blue, between Tidal Wave blue and Midnight blue, which is Metallic. This color is also available for the 2007 Elantra and Tiburon.

In Greece and perhaps other countries, due to high taxation in hi-displacement engines, a 1.6 liters Turbocharged engine was available too for some years, producing 145PS(107kW)/5800rpm and 190Nm(128lbf)/4300rpm of torque and making the 1233kg vehicle capable of accelerating 0-100(0-60mph) in 9,3s and achieving a top speed of 210km/h(131mph). Fuel consumption was 6,4lt/100km(36,8mpg).

GK F/L (2005–2006)

Hyundai conducted minor tweaks to the 'GK' model in 2005, for the outgoing named 2006. The vehicle incorporated reworked sleeker blackened "smoked" headlights, redesigned rear tail lights, more aggressive front air dam, a different range of alloy wheel designs, colored stitching on leather seats (half leather seats available for the 1.6 range). In 2006, Hyundai released the GT Limited Model. This was an upgrade from the GT V6. It included an upgraded tan leather interior, automatic climate controls, a 440w Infinity 6 disc in dash stereo with 10" subwoofer, and side markers. The GT LTD came in black or white.

GK F/L2 (2007–present)

A more comprehensive facelift was launched in 2007, named the Coupe SIII in markets such as the UK, this time altering the appearance of the car enough to designate it the fourth generation or GK F/L reminiscent of the RD1 and RD2 denotations.

The headlights are thinner and angled more aggressively; somewhat similar to the original Tiburon headlights with more straight/sharp lines. The tail lights are similar to the RD2 and GK1 but are somewhat smaller and reflect an aftermarket styling. The fenders lose the "gill fins" and other small changes are seen.

The interior is updated with brushed aluminum accents, new blue backlight scheme for gauges and instrumentation and new seats.

Hyundai later introduced the limited, special edition TSIII (uk). This upgraded, limited edition included quilted leather interior with embroidered logos, stiffer sports suspension, quad exhaust exit pipes, a higher level rear spoiler and an anthracite finish to the alloy wheels. The performance of the TSIII remained the same as the SIII. This is the last model made.

It comes stock with Recaro seats.

Equipment and safety

The exact specification depends on model and the market where it is sold but these are some of the features available:

The 2004–2007 models received a 4/5 star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the USA.[8][9][10][11]

Engineering

105 hp (78 kW; 106 PS) @ 5800 rpm and 144 N·m (106 ft·lbf) torque @ 3000 rpm. [12]

138 hp (103 kW; 140 PS) @ 6000 rpm and 184 N·m (136 ft·lbf) torque @ 4500 rpm.[13]

165 hp (123 kW; 167 PS) @ 6000 rpm and 245 N·m (181 ft·lbf) torque @ 4000 rpm. (Europe and Middle East)
172 hp (128 kW; 174 PS) @ 6000 rpm and 245 N·m (181 ft·lbf) torque @ 3800 rpm. (US)[14]

In 2002 the 5-speed retained standard on the GS, GT, and GT Limited, while the upscale SE model came only with a six-speed manual. A four-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic was available for all models.

In the UK and Middle East, the 5-speed manual is standard on the 1.6L and 2.0L versions, while a 6-speed is standard on the top of line 2.7L FX model, A four-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic was available for 2.0L & 2.7L as well.

Performance

Acceleration 0–60 mph: 11.4 seconds[15]
Top speed: 114 mph (183 km/h)[15]

Acceleration 0–60 mph: 10.0 seconds[15]
Top speed: 124 mph (200 km/h)[15]

Acceleration 0–60 mph: 8.7 seconds[15]
Top speed: 129 mph (208 km/h)[15]

Acceleration 0–60 mph: 8.0 seconds[15]
Top speed: 135 mph (217 km/h)[15]

Marketing and branding

The car is branded as the Hyundai Coupe in some European markets.[1] In several markets the model is sold and branded as a Tuscani. The Tuscani wears a circular badge containing a smaller circle of black and grey horizontal bars which is overlaid with a letter 'T' painted gold on the left and silver on the right. Even in markets where the car is sold as a Hyundai Tiburon or Hyundai Coupe, the name Tuscani has become quite popular. Many cars have been modified aftermarket to be rebadged with Tuscani emblems. In Canada, a special edition of the Tiburon is sold as a "Tuscani edition". A rumour has started to circulate that Hyundai is considering a plan to branch off the Tuscani name as a complete sub brand for more exclusive, sporty, and upmarket models. The existence of the name is most likely to achieve greater sales where the Hyundai name has cloying associations with more budget products.

In some markets secondary badging may denote engine size and variations such as trim, wheel, and other options. These badges include GS, GT, SE and FX, although some use FX across the entire range available. In certain markets, certain exterior colors are not available and identification may require noticing subtle local differences such as alloy wheels, spoilers or dealer fit options such as in car entertainment systems. These can all change from year to year and from market to market, so the variation is quite significant. One notable difference is that the 1.6 engine always has a single exhaust on the right hand side, in all markets where it is sold.

References

  1. ^ a b Daniel Patrascu (March 31, 2009). "http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-new-hyundai-tiburon-comes-in-2011-5439.html". autoevolution.com. http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-new-hyundai-tiburon-comes-in-2011-5439.html. Retrieved May 12, 2011. 
  2. ^ GoAutoMedia (2009-11-05). "Hyundai 2011 Genesis - Hyundai readies Genesis". GoAuto. http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/405CAEC2B7DA10CCCA2576650009D2B6. Retrieved 2010-10-08. 
  3. ^ a b c "Hyundai Coupe 2.0 FX specifications". Parkers.co.uk. http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/specs/Summary.aspx?model=350. Retrieved 2010-08-28. 
  4. ^ "Coupe Models - The UK Hyundai Coupe Site". Hyundaicoupe.info. 2007-07-19. http://www.hyundaicoupe.info/models/index.html?page=hcsef2&pix=pix_f2&&menu=m_models_1996. Retrieved 2010-03-28. 
  5. ^ "Hyundai Coupe F2 Evolution". Newtonnet.co.uk. http://www.newtonnet.co.uk/coupe/. Retrieved 2010-03-28. 
  6. ^ "Hyundai Coupe | First Drives | Car Reviews". Auto Express. 2002-03-01. http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrives/19541/hyundai_coupe.html. Retrieved 2010-10-08. 
  7. ^ "2003-2008 Hyundai Tiburon: Overview, Updated: 11/13/10, Consumer Guide Automotive". http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2003-to-2008-hyundai-tiburon.htm. Retrieved 17 March 2011. 
  8. ^ 2004 Hyundai Tiburon 2-DR.w/SAB NHTSA NCAP
  9. ^ 2005 Hyundai Tiburon 2-DR. w/SAB NHTSA NCAP
  10. ^ 2006 Hyundai Tiburon 2-DR. w/SAB NHTSA NCAP
  11. ^ 2007 Hyundai Tiburon 2-DR. w/SAB NHTSA NCAP
  12. ^ 2001 Hyundai Coupé 1.6
  13. ^ Hyundai Tiburon GS Hatchback
  14. ^ 2006 Hyundai Tiburon GT Hatchback
  15. ^ a b c d e f g h 2003 Hyundai Coupe specifications
  16. ^ a b c d 2007 Hyundai Tiburon GT - Seventh Place: 2007 Hyundai Tiburon GT, Car and Driver
  17. ^ Road Test: 2003 Hyundai Tiburon GT V6
  18. ^ a b c d Hyundai Tiburon GT V-6 - Comparison Tests
  19. ^ a b 2003 Hyundai Tiburon Program #2138
  20. ^ a b c d http://www.roadandtrack.com/tests/updates/2007-hyundai-tiburon-se
  21. ^ a b c d CT_2002-Ford-SVT-Focus-vs-2002-Honda-Civic-Si-vs-2003-Hyundai-Tiburon-GT-V6-vs-Nissan-Sentra-SE-R-Spec-V_data

External links