2008 Hyundai Tiburon - Comparison

Autoblog posted spy shots of the 2008 Hyundai Tiburon a couple weeks ago but I decided not to post about it since…well, it didn’t really matter. The spy shots weren’t really very exciting. Now though, we have updated shots from Hyundai of the new 2008 Hyundai Coupe (Tiburon in the US.) There seems to be a lot of debate as to whether the car is better looking or not, so I’ve created some side-by-side shots to make your decision that much easier

On all of these pictures, the silver one is the 2006 model, and the blue one is the 2008 (or 2007) model. Continue on for the comparison…

First up are the side shots; have a gander:

What do you think? These aren’t exactly to scale, but pretty close. As you can see from the side, the new model is a little less “aggressive” and quite a bit sleeker. The factory wheels are a bit sportier, and they did away with the vents on the fenders. The headlights from the side blend in a bit smoother with the body as well.

The biggest difference is in the front:

The new headlamps look a bit more aggressive, a little less bland. The new model sports a large, wide lower grille and a long slit above the license plate, moving down from right below the hood. The foglamps are now part of the grille as opposed to having their own housing.

Here’s the rear:

The first major difference here are the tail-lights. The new model has more of a modern, modified look which looks great, especially on this blue. It keeps the dual-exhaust, and has the tips flowing with the body more than the previous model. The basic idea of the rear is the same, but the lines flow more smoothly and make it a but more exciting. The same spoiler is kept, and I assume the badging will remain similar, if not the same.

The new Tiburon is more than likely going to keep the same powertrain options, meaning that the same 138HP 2.0-Liter Inline-4 and 172HP 2.7-Liter V6 will be available. If you look very closely, you might be able to see that the trim on this specific model is called the “FX,” a trim not available on previous models. I’m not sure if this is going to make it to North America or not, but this is most likely what the next Hyundai Tiburon will look like.

It remains a great choice for an “around $20K” sports coupe, but if the powertrain options are going to stay the same, it might not be enough improvement. I think the car looks a lot sharper, but not everybody shares my opinion. My fiancee was looking into buying a blue 2003 Tiburon GT but was turned off a bit by the lack of power it offered. Perhaps if they upped the weak 172HP 2.7L V6 to something a bit more up-to-date like a 3.3L offering closer to 300HP, that would spice it up a bit, and keep it modern and competitive. But for now, we have to live with 172HP. Weak.

UPDATE: More 2007 Tiburon Info and Pictures

Very nice comparison. I myself was searching for pictures of the old ones to compare, but this is done very nicely! I think the new one looks better than the old one, except for the weird slit in the front. I also don’t really like the large grille, but as a whole, it looks even better than the old one.

I have a 2006 Tiburon, and I LOVE it .
The only complaint I have about it is that its a PIG on gas!

ummm well i love to tell you guys my dad is high up in hyundai motorcompany and the fx version of the new tiburon has a 2.7 vr BUT the fx adds a supercharger. 279 hp. it will be 28,000.

279 hp sounds great but i’d still prefer a naturally-aspirated inline V6 with gobs of torque. And what’s with the $28k pricetag ffs!?

I have a 2004 GT V6 Tiburon and looking to upgrade it with performance parts. I have to say that I love it. I think that the front grille is nicer than the 06 in my opinion. Simular to the 08 version. If it is true about a supercharger 279 plus hp RWD, it will be GREAT! LOOK OUT COMP TIBURON IS HEADING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.

Sorry, thumbs down. I’ll stick with my ‘03 Tibby with the fender gill-vents, the Tuscani emblems and the gull-wing doors. Good luck with the ‘07 model. I think it sucks.

i’ve got a couple things to get straight, first.. the fx tiburon has only been available overseas which means that us here in the us are screwed, and the pics above are of the 2007 tiburon which will be arriving soon. And to the person who said this “but i’d still prefer a naturally-aspirated inline V6″… are you kidding me!? an inline v6 huh? how does that one work…. hahaha

haha, good catch Brian

I think the new tibby will be equipped with new 3.3L engine V6 engine because the Chairman of Hyundai clearly said that they will change their brand to luxury high quality brand. So far, he’s keeping his word…

in United States…

Sorry folks, the ‘07 Tib’s going to have to same 2.0 I4 & 2.7L V6 powerplants as in the current bodystyle. Go check out Hyundai’s press release site, http://www.hyundainews.com and look under “Media Kits” then “2007 Models”; you’ll find the spec info there. From what I hear the ‘08 will be the RWD 300hp beast with an all-new body design and will be in direct competition with the 350Z!

the supercharger i was talkin about is availablee in the 08 model….

Hi guys and girls am wondering if any one knows of any Tiburon car clubs on long island, N.Y. if so PLEASE let me know much appreciated, thanks.

have you searched ‘the Google?’

It needs RWD!!!!

I have a 2005 V6, no rear spoiler, someone knows how much power you can get from this power plant and how? my car is only 14,000 Km (still on warranty)

I have an ‘05 GT…and I will keep it over the ‘08 thanks. They are starting to “round” things off again. I like the looks of the one I have. The 6 cyl isn’t explosive but with some after market additions it is enough…I sure wouldn’t pay an extra $8,000 for a supercharger! Could get a nice bike for that!

hey i love the tiburon’s.. i like the ‘06 model the best
i dont have one , but im 16 and am hoping to get one
for my first car.. ha ha, i just have to talk my mom into
it.. im trying to make her see that its okay for me to
get a new car.. my friend has a new Mazda Rx8 and
its so, cool. but i want a tiburon.. k well i still like
the ‘06 the best but thats just my opinion.. k cya

good luck, Cody. Although if it were my choice, I’d take the RX-8

get a Honda or Toyota.

Moron who left the brand coment. Let me ask you a question. Who won JD Power’s 3rd highest intial brand quality for 2006 right behind jaguar and porsche? Hyundai. Look it up on their website if you don’t beleive me. The belief that Hyundai and Kia are crap is an out-of-date stigma. In 10 years Hyundai will have left toyota and honda in the dust. Wait and see.

Howdy fellow Tibby lovers! I love this car! I have a 2006 and it rocks! Curious though why they only offer the vivid blue color in the SE? I would love to get a GT in the vivid blue color but it isn’t offered, bummer! Why do they do that?! Seems it would be beneficial to offer the same colors & options in all trims so people can ‘build’ the one they want. Wouldn’t that help sales?

I agree Kitty, I love the vivid blue color. Strange they don’t offer it in the GT, that’s what I would get it in too.

i got a 05 tiburon i keep it as well over the 07 or 08… 05 model looks so superb… and alot of power thats for sure

by the time tiburons are radically redesigned the name will be all but pointless. since i’m sure just about every person that owns a tiburon knows the word is spanish for shark; the ‘gills’ are part of the design. you can see hyundai is working away from that. i’ve been wanting a newer engine design for a couple years now. though i am partial to the ‘05 and ‘06 design as the best overall. i own a 2004 gt model myself–silver–and am satisfied with it. true, i wouldn’t mind a beefier engine but i still get decent gas mileage (which of course, mileage may vary hehe). but i am also happy not to blow a lot of money on a car anyway. in that respect i would not like to see the price tag rise for the sake of a supercharger. i would rather have the tiburon continue to be the more ‘affordable’ sports car and see hyundai introduce a new model specifically meant to compete as a real racing car in a separate pricing structure.

hopefully 2008 will be a better year for hyundai and tiburon

My bf and I are big tiburon lovers, but however my fav time tiburon is the 99 SE. Maybe when they make a new make over they can combine the 99-03 together.

I’ve had two tibbys 0ne 04 model that i twin turboed and put out 410kw at the wheels and an 06 model that i have just supercharged with 12psi dont yet know the power of this mod but notice a big dif in acceleration on the freeway.
as for the 08 model it will come with the 2.7L as standed or optiond with a supercharger or a 3.3L v6 so take your pick.

hey oz tibby where u from ???

I own a 2003 Tib, and I have to say, I prefer the design of the 2003-2006 models better than the 2007. I would rather have the front bumper/grill of the 2006 on my 2003. I would also prefer the new wheels and taillights of the 2007 on my 2003. But the wheels and taillights are about the only part I like about the 2007.

I just got a 2006 Hyundai Tiburon and I’m 17 years old. I like the new style of the 07′ but I think I still like the 2003-2006 model.

any tiburon nay-sayers….get the f*ck outta here…hyundai will always be the best…so anyways…im looking to mod out my “tibby” as some call it, with either a turbo, or a supercharger…does anybody know which ones better cuz i know their in essence the same thing by being forced induction…but which do you think would be better, and also i needs either a website or a location in where to buy them. please…help me..i need more horsepower!!!!..but then again..who doesnt?!

Thanks for the comment socialenemy, but people have a right their opinion. Anyway, the decision whether or not to get a supercharger or turbo depends on what you’re looking for it. There is quite a difference. I plan on writing an article about the difference actually, so be sure to check back. In the mean time, just google it, and get back to us with your decision.

The engine rumored to be put in the tiburon generation after this (that would be 09′) is a 4.6L, quad cam, Tau V-8. This engine will also be put in a new luxary sedan coming to the US in 2008. The engine hasn’t been rated yet, but it’s estimated to put out well over 300hp. The car will have to be redesigned to house this powerplant.

@frap: Thanks for the tip. There seems to be a lot of rumors floating around about popular cars like the Tiburon. As I’m sure you’ve read on AutomoBlog, there were rumors of a supercharger coming on this model before it was released, but we have yet to see that.
I’m not saying that what you heard isn’t true, it may very well be. I just recommend not getting too excited about anything until we get some sort of official word.

…been “google’ling” around, and it seems that a turbo is the publics best choice in increasing horsepower, but i also know that a supercharger might be alittle “cleaner” in a way. For those who don’t know, and please correct me if im wrong, but a supercharger is run from the motor, where as a turbo is run by using the exhaust an what not. Still cant find a source that provides turbo’s for tiburons, yet ive seen some “mods”, and all that have turbo’s are very complicated and require you to practically disassemble the front end. If anyone knows a place, website, or even a contact that i can well.. contact inorder to get some more info on “tibby turbo’s”

You’re right socialenemy, turbos are run from the exhaust, and superchargers are powered by the belt system. Some people prefer superchargers because there is no “spool-up” time involved like in turbos, it’s instant power. The benefit from turbos is that it can provide more total power, and at a higher RPM.

Personally, I would choose a supercharger for my Tiburon, but that’s based on my driving style, so decide your driving habits and make your decision accordingly.

You are all forgeting that increasing power too much is kind of pointless until this car is redesigned. It’s front-wheel drive would make for horrible torque-steer in the bigger HP values. This is evidenced by Misubishi’s new 300HP FWD failure. The comment I left earlier is an assumption based on a luxary car Hyundai is introducing called the Genesis. It seems logical that since they have stated their goal to put a 300HP engine in this car, that they would use the only engine they have that puts out this power. (non-diesel that is)

by “this car” I mean the 2009 Tiburon

I have a 2006 Tuscani and I prefer it’s design on the 2007. What I do like, and don’t know if it will be like this here in americas, is that red leather interior I’ve seen on main Hyundai’s website - where they call it Hyundai Coupe. I’m planning to tune it up with that Alpine stage 1 supercharger kit … http://www.roadracemotorsports.com/tiburon.htm
You guys have it supercharged? How does it feel like?

careful with the upgrades. This car is still FWD. Too much power will give it noticeable torque steer and will harm performance rather than help it.

If you are looking to get a supercharger or turbo kit for the Tiburon, try going to www.importshark.com They offer several of the kits produced by Alpine. Also, if you go to a website called www.newtiburon.com you will find an entire website of Tiburon fans, and several links to aftermarket dealers.

hey social enemy. if you are 18, try ebay, other wise go cry to mommy or daddy.

NGM is the way to go if interested in supercharging your Tib. Next Generation Motorsports is located in Florida and they specialize in Tiburons. Go to www.ngmhouseofpower.com They have three different COMPLETE kits depending on the kind of horsepower gain that your looking for. And as long as your not going all out with like a 350+HP setup torque steer is manageable.

Long time owner of an 03. Wish they would make it an all wheel drive.

Anybody know where i can get stage 2 for my M5 *cheap*??

Thumbs up to Hyundai for the Tiburon. Other auto makers should learn from this design. When is Toyota going to come out with something with something so beautifully sculpted? I wasn’t a big fan of the Tibby when it first came out years ago but I’ve loved the look of it ever since the first redesign. Now if only they can keep it affordable with the new upgrades and hoopla they’re doing for 09.

I think the new Tiburion looks great. The front looks like a Ferrari and the rear like a Rx8. Im planing to buy the 2008 model. The one with the RWD

Look people, I have owned Three Tiburons since 2003, I started out with the First mistake of the 2003 Tiburon GT V6 6-spd, i bought the Alpine Stg.3 And had mutiple other extensive mods done to the car, it produced 473.9 Hp and 541.6Ft.lbs of torque on the Dyno at a local race shop, basically 420 +/- hp and 500 +/- ft/lbs to the pavement,
The car kicked out 0-60 in 4.38 seconds, as fast as you could hit second. The torque-steer was eliminated when i upgraded the tires, chrome-moly axles, engine-torque damper and upgraded poly-mounts, the car maxxed out at 203mph @7450rpm. the fidanza flywheel and stg4 clutchmaster six-puck caught wrong under load one day from and annihilated the crappy transmission. i have a 2005 auto gtv6 and a 2006 KDM right-hand drive Tuscani now, the tuscani pushes out 270hp and 290ft/lbs. with only larger intake w/ spacer, 58mm bigboreTB, open exhaust, headers, aem intake w/k&N and air-fuel controller.

I agree with jaybird on this one, The 2003 had a horrible transmisson, and the clutch was total crap. The New Tiburon Is nothing, it’s just a poor redesign of a already beautiful car, It’s a 2003-2006 with a facelift, the guts are still the same. There IS NO RWD Tiburon, It’s a hoax. The HCD-G4 Hyundai Concept Design-Generation 4 is going to be the “New” Tiburon, Don’t ask how i know this….i have connections..
The HCD-G4 is Actually being considered to be named “Tuscani” instead of Tiburon to promote sales. The “Tuscani” comes in GT-V6, Limited and Shark Edition.

The Tuscani GT-v6 sports the 3.3l that is in the Tucson, with a short throw 6-spd and 5spd tiptronic auto.
The Tuscani Limited is rumored to sport a Supercharged 3.3l and a 3.5l Azera option.
The Tuscani “Shark Edition” is rumored to be the ultimate street machine, hyundai said able to wipe the floor with WRX-L ,Evolution - X’s, and to be so bold, the new Toyota Supra.
The Shark Edition sports an Exclusive Twin-turbo V-8 Yes, you heard me correct…. Eight cylinders. All-wheel selector controls,

I agree with jaybird on this one, The 2003 had a horrible transmisson, and the clutch was total crap. The New Tiburon Is nothing, it’s just a poor redesign of a already beautiful car, It’s a 2003-2006 with a facelift, the guts are still the same. There IS NO RWD Tiburon, It’s a hoax.

*BUT* The 2009-2010 HCD-G4 (Hyundai Concept Design-Generation 4) is going to be the “New” Tiburon, Don’t ask how i know this….i have connections..
The HCD-G4 is Actually being considered to be named “Tuscani” instead of Tiburon to promote sales. The “Tuscani” comes in GT-V6, Limited and “Shark Edition T/T “.

The Tuscani GT-v6 sports the 3.3l that is in the Tucson, with a short throw 6-spd and 5spd tiptronic auto. All-wheel selector controls (Fwd,Rwd,Awd.)

The Tuscani Limited is rumored to sport a Supercharged 3.3l and a 3.5l Azera option. All-wheel selector controls (Fwd,Rwd,Awd.)

The Tuscani “Shark Edition T/T ” is rumored to be the ultimate street machine, hyundai said able to wipe the floor with WRX-L ,Evolution - X’s, and to be so bold, the new Toyota Supra.

The “Shark Edition T/T ” sports an “Exclusive” Twin-Turbo V-8 Yes, you heard me correct…. Eight Forced Induction cylinders. 6-spd Ceramic clutch, All-wheel selector controls (Fwd,Rwd,Awd.). True-dual Exhaust, 18×8 and 18-10 alloys, it has factory aluminum widebody fenders and carbon fiber “Accent” kits. This car is absolutely beautiful.

This car is currently a RUMOR….but i was correct about the 2008 Challenger R/T, and 2009 Pontiac GTO Judge, so don’t doubt my information.

Look, your information is already not accurate. First of all, the tuscon V6 has the same 2.7L that the tiburon gt has now. Second, if you triple the horsepower of a vehicle, you’re bound to run into numerous problems on any car. This car is not meant to handle 200+ mph or sub 5 second 0-60 times. Jaybird needs to stop blaming the vehicle and start blaming his own lack of car knowledge. Third, I think a majority of people would say that this car looks better than the 2003-2006 version, and facelifts are usually not very extensive for any company. This one is actually quite well thought-out as far as facelifts go. The VW beetle just got new mirror and tail lights for its facelift. Fourth, the Azera has a 3.8L V6. Finnaly, Hyundai doesn’t call their semi-auto transmitions tip-tronic. They call them shift-tronic transmitions. Now I think I shot quite a few holes in your lovely string of careless statements. Check your facts.

2 things:

1. I cant wait for the next generation of Hyundai sports coupes. Whatever they have up their sleeves, I am sure we will all be impressed.
2. The reviewer has his/her’s facts mistaken. The “FX” trim was available for the RD1 Tiburons, 1997-1999

plz can any1 tell me if there any tibby`s clubs in florida or miami area

the fx trip is an actual tip level in the 2007. It’s only offered in korea. It does have a supercharger. It’s also very expensive. I’m not sure why they chose to use the trim name again though.

I have a silver 06 Tiburon GT V6, and I absolutly love it! Although I agree with others it is most def. a huge gas hog! But it’s great! This year is my fav. I don’t like the fronts on the other years.

Ive got the 06 SE and am not fond of the new design. Anyone know if possible to supercharge my v6 instead of buying the 08?

Yes SE Owner, I know there are forced induction products available for your 2006 Tibby, but off the top of my head I can’t think of any places. Search around on Google a bit, or keep an eye out for my partners links, which might help you out some too.

www.importshark.com
www.seoulfulracing.com
www.kspec.com
www.newtiburon.com
www.RDTiburon.com
This should get you guys started!!!

Awesome, thanks tibbytib!

06 SE Owner & egon
If looking for F/I whether it’s a turbo or supercharger check out Next Generation Motorsports. They are the only one’s that I have found that SPECIALIZE in only Tib’s.
www.ngmhouseofpower.com

whats up …. I have a 07 GS Tib(5 speed 4cyl)i bought a month ago and am very happy with it … i love the styling of this car ….. not as fast as i was expecting out of a sports car but it drives and handles great …

Have an 03 tibur ~ 1 of 4 vehicles I have ~ Will buy another in the next year or so ~ Will never let go of this one ~ Black GT-V6 ~ Totally stock ~ Wouldn’t change a thing ~ Have had everything from super bee’s to gto’s ~ This car does it all for me ~ At 60 MPH or 110 it is tight ~

i dont have the most up to date tibby but my 01 does the job to me it doesnt matter what the price of the 08 is as long as companies other than honda and toyota are put in their place, most people i know will only drive chevy and have said that their frickin cobalts are better anyone can handle a cobalt it takes people with class and taste to drive a tibby

I HAVE A 06 2L TIB.THE BEST CAR EVER!!!!!!!!I HAVE SEEN THE NEW 07 TIB AT THE AUTO-AFRICA SHOW….
ITS NICE BUT I PREFER THE 06 MODEL.THIS MODEL IS SO DISTICTIVE,YOU KNOW ITS A TIBBY WHEN YOU SEE IT ON THE ROAD!THE NEW ONE LOOKS MORE LIKE THE REST OF THE WORLD SPORTS CARS NOT LIKE N TIBBY

hey i like the 06 model i have an 04 and it looks better than the 08 as for the supercharged one you can get a supercharger for an 03 and up for 4400 and it puts it at around 265 Whp not bhp so why 3600 more it makes no sense if you are lookin for a supercharger for your tibby that has a v6 then google alpine superchargers you will find what your lookin for

I have an 03 gt, I love it, the only thing i have to say is im real excited about Killian NoD’s post, i need a tissue, i hope its true..

WELL…. I HAVE TO SAY I DISAGREE WITH MOST OF YOU ON HERE (NO OFFENCE). I HAVE A 2004 HYUNDAI TIBURON. AUTO. I THINK THEY ARE DEFINITELY OVER RATED. EVER SINCE I BOUGHT IT, IT HAS GUZZLED PETROL SO I WORK TO FILL IT!!THIS IS DESPITE ADVERTISING THAT IT ONLY USES 12L/100KM. THE STEREOSTOPPED WORKING TWICE AND HAS POOR SOUND QUALITY, THE FRONT WHEEL DRIVE MEANS I AM FOREVER GETTING WHEEL ROTATIONS AND NEW TYRES, AND ITS A BITCH TO PARK AS THERE IS REALLY POOR VISION!! FOR A ‘SPORTS CAR’ THEY ABSOLUTELY LACK GRUNT!!!! I MUST ADMIT THE HANDLING IS QUITE GOOD MAYBE BECAUSE OF THE SUSPENSION. BUT WITH THE CHEAP CRAPPY INTERIOR, POOR ENGINE DESIGN (I MEAN ONLY A 2.7 L - WHAT WERE THEY THINKING!!!) AND LESS THAN ACCEPTABLE FUEL ECONOMY I WOULD HAVE TO SAY I WISH I HAD BOUGHT A 2ND HAND HONDA INTEGRA OR A TOYOTA CELICA FOR THE SAME PRICE. I AM NOW TRYING TO SELL MY CAR AFTER 2 AND A HALF YRS OF ‘PUTTING UP WITH IT’ AND IT IS IMPOSSIBLE AS NOONE WANTS A 2ND HAND HYUNDAI ‘SPORTS CAR’. VERY DISAPPOINTED. THEY SHOULD CHANGE IT TO A 3.5 LITRE, AWD WITH BETTER QUAILTY INTERIORS AND EXTRAS (MAYBE CLIMATE CONTROL, PARKING SENSORS ETC.) AND THEN THEY COULD COMPETE WITH THE MORE PRESTIGIOUS BRANDS - UNTIL THEN…THEY ARE NOTHING BUT A CHEAP CAR THAT HYUNDAI IS TRYING TO PASS AS SOMETHING ELSE.

Lemme put something out there.. As for Experiences with the 2.7v6 don’t put your hopes into the Automatic or the 5-spd models. They are not built for it. 03-04 6-spds and 05-06 The 6-spd and Shark Edition shift-tronic are the only two able to kick out the torque that gets your attention. My when i had my 03 tib 6-spd it burned tires out of first, and had mad torque steer in the first part of second..it was a good car until the transmission popped like a swollen pimple. I moved out of it into a 2005 Sterling silver Shark Edition w/ Shift-tronic Stage II.. The car has balls, my ex-wife drives it now.
i moved into a 06.5 Midnight Black Pearl Tiburon SE “Tuscani” R-spec. I’m in iraq at the moment, but i have a crapload of mods that i have purchased and are waiting for me, when i get home. The 06.5 Kicks unadulterated A-S-S… I live out near I-95 and I hit 144mph at 4000rpm in 6th @0.9miles (governor controlled).
The car gets almost 32mpg @ 90mph on the highway. Average fuel tank ran just over 400 miles at 16.4 gallons.
I’ve NEVER had a complaint with my Tiburons, NOR have a had a stock car that could outperform my cars yet.

Turbo cars and Supercharged models don’t count. Naturally aspirated only.
I ran with a 04 corvette z06 up to 4th gear and then get dusted.
BUT I ran with a 05 Dodge Ram- SRT-10 “Viper” from 35mph to 110mph and stayed side by side.
I’m not gonna complain but i’m not going to brag,

But for those of you who have the 05-06’s Remember.. they come stock with 172hp and 186ft.lbs… that’s not much.
03-04’s came with 184hp and 197ft.lbs…

A tiburon is it’s Own class of car, and it’s own unique look..
A stock one is a runabout car… A Built and Modified model is
an V-8/10 Killer.

The Baddest Tiburon i have seen is a 02 that had TWO 2.0 Turbo’s it was kicking over 600whp to the pavement, it was all-wheel drive, because it had a front and rear engine. look on YouTube and you may be able to find it. (it’s a black one)

The Car doesn’t make the Driver. If you can’t handle or Figure out how to handle a Tiburon, Don’t buy one.

I have a 2005 tiburon, 4sp auto V6. I have looked at modifying my car (as most boys do), The alpine super charger will just bolt on and give you 210kw (270bhp) or 165kw (216whp). I drove a tiburon with one of these super chargers, this car was uncontrollable, the steering wheel was ripped from your hands every time you gave it a squirt. Stick to basic mods, cat backs, cold air intakes and an ecu. But having said that, i go down to Winton raceway to watch the street GTs race. Every week i watch that crazy arsed 140kw 1.8lt celica get it butt whipped by this tiburon and its under powered 2.7lt. Why, Hyundai built this car so it wouldnt rip your face off in a straight line, but once you get it up to speed, it is very easy to keep it up there. Your celicas and integra type s, may have the straight line speed to show up a tiburon, but on a race track they struggle to keep the rpm’s up in the 7000 range where their power is, so they lose in cornering and exiting. As for build quality, hyundai isnt as good as Toyota or Honda, but take into account, a tiburon 6sp manual here was $32000, The celica $40000 and type S $42000, you get what you pay for. At $32000 the tiburon is an absolute blast! Very predictable cornering, nice torque down low and the seats (though a bit tacky looking) are some of the best I have sat in. To sum up, the tiburon is quick (not fast), cheap, very well balanced on a race track, sadly a nightmare ride on rough roads, but most importantly they just look good.

Hyundai needs to make a 2-seat roadster like Saturn Sky or Pontiac Solstice. Though the 2008 looks better than prior years, if the company would do a two seater, they would rock.

This is a almost meaningless comparison, since it makes the false assumption that the 2007 and 2008 models are identical. They are not. I own a 2007, and I find the new 2008 to be a logical refinement of the 2007, but not a clone. rhp

Hi RHPuckett,

Sorry for the confusion. At the time this article was written, nobody was sure whether the new redesign would be implemented on the 2007 model, or if it would wait until the 2008 line. Now that we know, I could logically rename this article to the 2007 model instead. I hope that clears that up.

Man, where do you newbs get your info. The torq steer? c’mon I mean really. I have a mp90 super charger pushin 20+ psi on a Next generation motorsports built race block , that is an everyday driver. Yes, mine is built a little more than the average joes, but I’m an old guy , ya cant tell me you young guys cant handle what little power you’re puttin out with simple mods or none.And to top all that off, I still get between 19-21 mpg around town with my 03 Tiburon GT. My car runs on pump gas and I’ve had absolutly no drivability problems or any interior problems with my car , so the whiney lil toads that complained in this thread about car issues, Learn to take care of your car. And as far as the new Tibs coming out they all look good to me (except that dang front grille on the 07-08)Oh and just for Posterity…….I can stick the horse power to the pavement no problems, and that’s because with engine mods, you have to do suspension mods.

I just got a 2006 Hyundai Tiburon SE V-6 6 speed, I absolutely love the car. I am concerned I might have been miss lead a little. The salesman told me it was the step above the “rally” addition, I am a little new to Hyundai cars, I work at a Ford dealership. They told me that my Tibby was race ready, can anyone enlighten me. Thanks!!

I have owned a 2004 TIB GT V6, auto, since I bought it new in 2004. I have kept the milage down and now it has about 16000 miles. I use mobil’s syntec oil, and k&n oil filters. I just recently bought a K&N Airfilter for it and cannot believe the difference this airfilter has made. The pickup is there and the gas mileage has improved significantly. I highly recommend it to you guys out there. I am ready to exchange my TIB but may wait and nsee if they put out a better V6. Infiniti has one rated at 330 hp and a five speed auto. Will see what happens. But this car is nice, and handles real well. Only issue is when you get a ding, you get a ding. Keep ridin and wear your seat belt.

i got a tiburon that id like to pimp out. any recommendations? both performance & looks. price range of body parts, etc would be helpful. thanks

[…] The Veloster (the name is a combination of velocity and roadster) is focusing on a high-tech image, with a panoramic glass roof and other “futuristic” styling cues. I’d be interested to see what direction they’re heading for new designs. They’ve been doing a great job restyling their vehicles, particularly with the redesign of the 2008 Tiburon. […]

does anyone have an exhaust system on their 07 Tib GT

lemme know

2006*

I have a number of exhausts for my 2006 V6 Elisa-SI (supercharged/intercooled) . DCsports ceramic header to dual lines runing quad outlets (obnoxiously loud but appropriate with Apex’i ECVs) under the license plate, I have another setup for my DC headers that is a Borla Dual Line setup (sick, deep throaty rumble) also the DC

ok cool thank u thats all i needed to know
i just ordered a borla catback for now for mine and im hoping it gives me a nice performance sound

Hello! I was browsing through a list of “low-cost cars for new drivers”, and the 07 Tibby really grabbed my attention. The re-designed front, the blue-lite interior… and that’s it’s only 20g. No way I can afford it right now(18, college student), but I am looking for a dealership where I can test drive it.
From what I read, the 07 tibby is a bit underpowered, which supercharging solves for the most part.(I’m not looking for top-speed, more for acceleration) Now, I’ve never worked on cars before, in fact I have very limited knowlage on working on cars beyond routine maintence, but from what research I’ve done, getting it supercharged would set me back about an extra 4g, and then I would have to get mods for suspension, and probably other mods.
Does anyone know if there’s a place around South Jersey/Philly that specializes in Tiburons? I bookmarked sites that you guys listed up there, maybe I’ll find something there. Did I hear someone say they drive on I-95? I live in South Jersey, near philly.
Also, I am 6′3″ and 240lbs. Currently, I drive a 96′ Chevy Lumina, and in it I have to move the seat all the way back, lean it back somewhat, and lift the steering wheel all the way up. Anyone else here my size(or larger)? How well do you fit in the car?
And for those of you complaing about the FWD and starting up fast, I gun my Lumina all the time(I’m getting a used Monte Carlo, which is the sports version of the Lumina, for my next car) and you just gotta know how to handle it. Maybe becuase I chop fire wood a lot so I have fairly strong hands… but then again, my front tires are BALD as a CUE BALL. Taking turns just a wee bit faster leads to a lot of screaching. Gotta get new tires…
I don’t know how to drive Manual. So what I was looking at what the 2007 Tiburon GT, Automatic, with the Shiftronic. I’ve seen a sport-shifter at work once before, seems fun.

hola! i have a “tidal wave blue” 05′ tiburon, and i love it! for the people who are complaining about the gas on their new tibys, i thought the same thing at first, but now that mine has been broken in, i get about 4 or 5 more miles per gallon than i did when i first got it, which really adds up. for those of you whine about the power, chances are you drive an automatic, im sorry. if you can work a cluch you can get all 175 horses at any speed meaning you can dominate alot of other cars that you rightfully shouldnt be able to. besides, its supposed to be a fun, sporty car, if you are thinking about buying one, go with the stick. you will learn the first day, and come close to mastering it in a week. plus it is way more fun to drive. i looked up top speeds for the 05′ online and i found most cites said it was 125-135. chances are they were also driving an auto. mine is still completely stock and mine does 120 at the top of 4th gear and 145 is the top speed, which i got to test out while driving in west texas. (for those of you who dont know, its very flat and the roads are straight.) dont get me wrong, generally, more power = more better! that is why i was so excited to hear about the next generation tiburon, at the end ill put a link to it. its supposed to have an inline 6, have alot more power, and look more agressive looking than the current model (which to me looks like a girl car in any color except blue and black). as soon as the warrenty runs out i plan on installing and intake, and a turbocharger so hopefully i can keep up with the new ones! bottom line is hyundai is currently probably the most under rated car company today, but given the direction they have been going, it wont be that way for long. automakers like honda and toyota will soon be in the rearview mirror of hyundai, i know they arleady are in mine : )
http://images.google.com/imgre.....S%26sa%3DN

yeaahhh
im with bob hyundai is getting bigger everyday
and im happy with my tiburon. i got it in white 07 GT limited … i cant say one negative thing about it, and so far i’ve gone 130
i named it tibby=)

Had the 97 FX ,what a class leading car, not fastest but as said previously its not a racer boy car, it forces a statement of good taste and induviduality. No mechanical problems except cluth replaced.It did attract the ladies much more than all my friends turbo golfs and other cheap car with big horsepower.

Adriana no effense, but 130 is really slow, they are ment to go fast i had a 03 se and it never topped out not even at 260, i jsut got the new 08, and since you have the gt, get a little risky and try and top it out cause it cant be done,
but yea they are amazing cars, they are deffinatly amazing

I think candice85 is ruining a good car. I have a beautiful 04 tibby that is an every day driver and the only problems have been with the clutch. A Clutchmasters stage 2 clutch and Fidanza 9.5 flywheel fixed everything. It not only performs well on the road but is a proud member of the 100mph club. The only thing I could ask for is a v-8 conversion kit. Although not possible, still a nice thought.

whats up people how are you today, I like my car, had it up to 140 but back out of it (ran out of road) cant tell if it has a governor or not. It just needs a little more power I mean I had a supercharged mustang and I wanted more power I just think when you get used to the power you have you want more, if you like power (I love power) but I really like my hyundai didnt think I would ever say that a hyundai who knew. It will be at the top soon if not already there. It’s a 2007 blue

I bought this back in March cuz it was new, and hated it until I finally got a body kit on it, now I love it…..the stock front bumper is just fugly, looks like it’s smiling at you.

I don’t know, I think the whole car turned out to look really good altogether. I see what you’re saying though Chris; when you look at the front bumber up-close it does look kinda silly.

I also wish it got better fuel economy and/or power. It doesn’t seem proportional for this car. 138 horsepower and only 20/27 mpg? The Civic is way better on fuel even with 2 more HP.

So I recently got a black 08 Tiburon GT limited andddd I love it! how could you guys think the new front end is ugly??? The new 08 body is so sexy My only grumble about it is my downgrade on power.. im looking to put a supercharger on it though… i used to own a 95 Camaro Z28 sooo im really missing the power of the V8 that i used to have compared to my V6 Tib. My friends say ive come to the dark side which i believe is true hahaha. its addicting modification wise.

My mom had both a 2003 and a 2006 tiburon both of them being the V6 with the 6 speed transmission and they were both very reliable cars

Hello all you tiburon lovers! I am a freak about my tiburon and so is everyone else too! I started off with a plain 4 cyl. and moved up to a gt v6 its a maroon kinda color which i wasnt wild about but the car is hot! I’m makin my third move now…in a few days i will have a silver SE..even hotter..I absoultely love the spoiler on these!!!! I was actually considering a mustang but went to the dealership and looked at one and the freakin thing was plain, no thanks Ford I’ll stick with my hyundai! I’m very excited about getting my 2008 tib but also very upset they are no longer making them…who gave the monkey crack??? These cars are so sporty and sleek and for the price you cant beat it!!! Wish me luck in my new SE 6 speed!!!

Hi Sherry, I love the style of the new Tiburons, but you should also consider the Hyundai Genesis Coupe. Here’s a link to the Genesis Coupe R-Spec, which is a cool bare-bones track configuration.

The base Coupe starts at only $22K and comes with a lot of standard equipment. You should definitely check it out, it will compete with the Mustang, it looks great, and it’s RWD: Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

Hey chris…so do you work for a dealership? I seen the new genesis and i dont think they are much compairison to the tiburon. Dont get me wrong, they look like a decent car but i still think the tiburon has a much sportier look to them. I’m stickin with the tiburon for now, i get an awsome rebate and 1500 in owner loyalty so thats the best route for me right now. Thanks anyhow.

Sherry, I don’t work for a dealership, this is my website. My positive opinion of the Genesis Coupe is completely unbiased - I really do like it that much

The Genesis is (in my opinion) better looking, it’s rear wheel drive, much more powerful, comes with much more standard equipment, and more configurable. Although the Tiburon is less expensive. Either way, let me know what you decide.

Hey chris, your website…duh! I thought about that after i wrote the comment. The genesis is rear wheel drive? Thats crazy though…so it will be more like a park in the garage all winter and just drive in the summer! I need something for all year so i’m definately going with the tiburon. Now i seen how someone else was saying how the newer tiburons look kinda funny in the front like they’re smiling and thats the only thing i’m not crazy about on the newer ones, but either way i still love the tiburon and i’m gonna go ahead and purchase my very last one…

Sherry, you said you were looking at the Mustang, which is also rear-wheel-drive, so I thought that was OK. You can still drive RWD cars in the winter - most of them have good traction and stability controls nowadays.

I have the 2005 Tiburon its a brilliant car, in every respect and to be honest if you dont get lead footed and keep an eye on the middle gauge which shows fuel economy they are the most awesome v6 on the market.. ive noticed a few knockers who love the ‘big brands’ but its really old thinking now.. the world has more than just Nissans and Subarus… get with the programme guys…as for the new model I do like it but theres something more aggresive with the 05/06 Models ILl stick with mine

I’ve got a black 2005 Tiburon. 5 speed manual and I’m trying to figure out some accessories and such to add to it.. but I can’t seem to find any sites on the internet that have what I’m looking for! Does anyone know of any good sites with things like colored bulbs for your dashboard or like cool stuff like that? Thanks oh, and I love the 2008 Tiburon. Hottest car ever, next to the Genesis of course. If I could pick any car in the world it’d be a 2008 Hyundai Tiburon. Special Edition - 6 cylinder, 6 speed manual! Midnight blue……hell yeah:):):)

Bethany Id love to see your baby…they are a great car very very very underated but you know something they are under rated by ‘other’ car owners who know nothing

Oh I know; you’re right Marls. A Tiburon is so much better in quality and just all around better than other sports cars like the newer Eclipses and Cougars and such. Not an American made car but who cares; it’s better than most American made and a hell of a lot sexier! lol