2005 Hyundai Tiburon SE 2.7 V6

Summary:

This car makes a statement

Faults:

None mechanically, but I did make a few changes like changing the CD player to an aftermarket one with a USB fitted, new aftermarket alarm system and a de-cat, with 57mm performance exhaust and some new xenon lights. The V6 is an awesome and pretty looking car. Loads of power, pushing out 130kw stock, and about 9kw more on the performance exhaust. I think that's enough power, and besides, how often can we really use that power when there's speed limits to worry about.

After previously owning the 20L FX version, which was very reliable apart from minor suspension repairs like stabiliser links and brake discs, the Tiburon is a good car all round. You service them regularly and you've got no problems.

Apart from the front wheel drive unit, which would have been better if it was all wheel or rear wheel drive, it's got loads of power and good looks. Everyone looks at this sports car and thinks it's a Ferrari (Hyundai knew they wanted to make a statement). After reviewing the V6 and finally getting to own one, I've learnt this is a fun car to drive; it always puts a smile on your face when you start it up, and the engine purrs with a sweet and animalistic tone. This car is built for mid range punching (3rd and 4th gears at 5K RPM), with much driver enjoyment. It's quick (8.4 seconds 0 to 100), but it's not a top end car; this one likes the bends and curvy roads. If you drive it hard through the gears, you have fun, but you also use much fuel, but on the open road when you throw it in 6th gear and cruise, your consumption is better. I've got the 6 speed box (SE version), and gear changes are nice and efficient.

And it's got all the bells, like air con, power steering, electric windows, and cruise control. Always make sure you use the right engine and gear box / transmission fluids on these cars, and they will run like forever.

Fun to drive, beautiful exhaust tone, and good to look at.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th December, 2015

19th Dec 2017, 12:38

Yes, a brilliant car. I have the SE version 6 speed. Serviced and maintained regularly.

The car has enough power for a 2.7, freeflow exhaust system, decat. Oil, use only 5w/40 to protect your engine; I use Shell Ultra in the engine, and 75w/90 Castrol in the gearbox. Always use the right oils to protect your mechanical components.

It's really an affordable car to maintain. Only things changed were:

New clutch and flywheel after 160000km (always change the flywheel with the new clutch, otherwise you will damage the clutch plate and eventually cause slipping), R8k.

Brakes changed all round (new discs and disc pads), R2k, excellent braking.

Changed both crankshaft and camshaft sensors (always use original manufacturer's sensors, otherwise the car won't start with aftermarket sensors, and will also cause power loss and engine misfire, and electrical sensors are non refundable). So stick with the manufacturer's parts and you won't go wrong.

Otherwise she is a beautiful car to own and drive. I love this car to the moon and back. Just like any motor vehicle, if you look after it, it will look after you.

1997 Hyundai Tiburon FX 2.0

Summary:

Tiburon - excellent value for money

Faults:

I have had no problems with this beautiful car. Everything has and still works like a dream.

General Comments:

I love my Tiburon. It has decent amount of power and handles excellently. I have owned it for 4 years and I intend on keeping it for ever. I always get comments on how sexy the car is.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd April, 2002

20th Feb 2007, 06:52

Excellent review, in South Africa, Tiburon owners have troublefree motoring, with these cars. The Tibs that come in for servicing at Hyundai has very high mileage, but they run like new.

Well done Hyundai SA.

In reply to 20th Feb 2007, 06:52

19th Nov 2012, 02:13

I have the Tiburon 2.0L FX, and I purchased it with 100k on the clock. 7 years later, with almost 300k on mileage counter, she still performs beautifully; that's with regular service intervals every 15k. I did have a few minor problems with her since I got it, but like any used vehicle, you must expect that. The only mechanical problems I encountered were:

1. The garage I purchased it from changed the radiator, never had cooling problems ever since, even with the long distances I cover regularly.

2. I changed handbrake cables last year after many years of pleasant motoring.

3. I changed the driver window mechanism 2 years ago; a simple installation that took me about an hour. The part itself wasn't expensive.

4. Clutch replaced after 4 years (put in a Valeo kit), very soft clutch.

5. Only mechanical breakdown I had was 6 months ago, I ran a bearing in the gearbox, which broke the crown wheel and mainshaft pinion. Sent it to the transmission guys, they stripped down the gearbox and replaced all parts. Had to put in another clutch, but she drives even smoother now.

What I learnt from this lesson is always use the correct lubricants in both the engine and gearbox. The repair on the gearbox was far cheaper than most cars would cost.

Other than the above, I still enjoy driving her, and it's very cheap to maintain from insurance to parts, and not forgetting very fuel efficient, and you've still got an adequate amount of power with a 2.0L motor.

Yes, and it still looks very good on the road; people can't stop looking at it.