The Hyundai Coupe was released in 2002 as a stylish and sleek two-door model. Eleven years later, the vehicle still looks just as good and as modern as it should be. But within those eleven years, the Coupe has also undergone upgrades to its equipment. The vehicle itself features an adequately sized boot, decent rear seats, and an improved interior targeted at the upmarket. The overall package is quite a steal, offering a well-equipped standard kit, five-year warranty, and low running costs.
Pros
The Coupe offers three engines in its line-up. The 1.6-litre at 103bhp is the entry-level unit and is ideal for the younger drivers requiring a cheaper insurance and fuel economy. The 2.0-litre unit at 136bhp is the most popular option; it was enhanced in 2003 with features such as additional lower and power emissions and valve timing. Plus the more powerful engine can arrive at 62mph in just 9.3 seconds, which is two and a half seconds faster than the entry-level engine. Both the 2.0-litre and 1.6-litre units are partnered with a five-speed manual gearbox; the top range 2.7-litre V6 unit comes with a six-speed manual. The V6 and 2.0-litre are also available with the four-speed automatic transmissions.
The handling is mostly predictable and safe in the Coupe. You won’t have any problems cruising through country lanes. All models include electric windows and air conditioning as standard, but you can also include the V6 or 2.0-litre models for the electric sunroof. The interior is rather cramped in space, but the boot is generous in space especially for a coupe. The interior has a decent build quality, but it could use some improvement in terms of finish. The 2007 models have redesigned the centre console with more sophisticated blue blacklit dials that remind you of the VW interior design.
Cons
The Coupe’s driving position isn’t very practical or comfortable: the seat is angled too low. Vertical adjustment is limited as well, so taller drivers end up being cramped from small headroom and the steering wheel positioned too far from them. Expect such limitations in the V6 and 2.0-litre models.
The ride isn’t too comfortable either as the firm suspension setup is unable to absorb the shock from bumpy and uneven roads. Rear seats are spacious though but the cabin still cramped for the driver and front seat passenger.
The entry-level 1.6-litre unit is practical for a younger drive looking to cut costs, but they’ll have to bear with the sluggish and underpowered performance. The 2.0-litre adds more power with its faster speed and acceleration, but it tends to be unresponsive at times. Plus you need to give it an extra push for it to gain a decent pace. Although the 2.7-litre V6 comes out as the most powerful in the range, it still delivers low speeds and doesn’t provide the excitement you expect from a 162bhp engine. The V6 and 2.0-litre come with a four-speed automatic transmission, but is not recommended due to its unresponsive and rough nature and its tendency to sap away too much power. Handling isn’t too impressive either as the vehicle is unable to absorb potholes and other rough road conditions. The steering also lacks the necessary feel.
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(Average rating: 5 , Total rates: 1 )
