The 2001 Hyundai Tiburon is a nifty little hatchback that has surprisingly good acceleration, braking and handling, and a style all its own. It was borne out of the Hyundai California Design (HCD) concept car, which was much ballyhooed. While the Tiburon is not quite as ambitious as the HCD models, it does have a unique style and can be a lot of fun to drive.
The 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine isn’t going to leave bigger cars in the dust, but for a car this size, it provides a nice burst of acceleration with a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic is also an option. When the rear seats are folded down, this hatchback provides plenty of room for cargo. In fact, buyers may be surprised at just what they’re able to fit in the roomy rear area of the Tiburon. There’s only one model available.
The Range
Body Styles: hatchback
Engines: 2.0-liter four-cylinder
Transmissions: five-speed manual, four-speed automatic
Models: Hyundai Tiburon
What's New
The Hyundai Tiburon just got a makeover in 2000, which included new projector headlights and larger taillights. Consequently, the 2001 model doesn’t bring too much that is new, save for a rear spoiler and a new set of wheels.
Exterior
The 2001 Hyundai Tiburon is unique and sporty looking. It features a rear spoiler and 15-inch alloy wheels with performance tires. It’s got a stiff, solid chassis, which adds to its handling ability, and the doors and mirrors are designed to reduce interior noise.
Interior
The 2001 Hyundai Tiburon features a cloth interior with bucket front seats including adjustable lumbar support for the driver, with power locks and mirrors and atilt-steering wheel. The dashboard is as hip and stylish as the exterior with a wraparound design and big, highly visible knobs and gauges. There’s also plenty of legroom for driver and front passenger. Leather upholstery is optional.
Performance & Handling
The 2001 Hyundai Tiburon is equipped with a 2.0-liter, DOHC, four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission, offering 140 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission is also available. It offers front drive with four-wheel independent suspension that will help take those tight corners. It has power steering but is not speed-responsive. Still, with quality braking, acceleration and cornering, drivers can have a lot of fun taking it out for a spin. The engine generates some noise, but it’s well within tolerable limits.
Safety
The 2001 Hyundai Tiburon does have a few useful safety features, including front headrests, ventilated front disc and solid rear brakes, front seatbelt pretensioners, electronic brake force distribution, and child seat anchors. ABS is optional.
EPA Fuel Economy
Hyundai Tiburon: 21/29 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Unique, distinctive style
- Great handling
- Plenty of options
You Won't Like
- Funky, unusual style
- Some engine noise
- Power steering not speed-responsive
Sum Up
Reasonable price, unique style, and perky acceleration and cornering abilities.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Honda Civic
- Kia Spectra
- Ford Focus