Hyundai SIII For Sale

LOGIN REGISTER NEWSLETTER Home NEWS REVIEWS PRODUCTS COMPARE CARS VIDEOS BUYING USED CARS NEW CARS MOTORSHOWS COMPETITIONS 6 ISSUES FOR £1 Search Car Reviews: You're in - Car Reviews: First Drives Hyundai Coupe Hyundai Coupe SIII Hyundai produce one of the last compact Coupes just as the platform begins to show its age Auto Express Car Reviews By Chris ThorpJanuary 2007 Rating: Buying a new Coupe for less than £20,000 is not as easy as you might think. With Toyota's Celica consigned to the history books and the likes of the Ford Cougar long gone, Hyundai's Coupe is one of the few remaining 'budget' sports cars available. Our biggest complaint concerns the steering wheel, which adjusts for rake only, while we found that the headroom on offer is also very limited.But does that simply make it one of a kind - or a dinosaur fighting extinction? To provide its sleek three-door with a new lease of life, Hyundai has given the Coupe a full makeover. Badged the Coupe SIII, the newcomer is the third incarnation of the car, and has recently arrived in the UK. We've already tried a Korean model in Issue 937, but in Britain, the Hyundai's styling will be an acquired taste.Hailed as a Ferrari lookalike when it was first unveiled in 2000, the model was then refreshed in 2005. But the latest changes represent the most sig-nificant of all, as the Coupe now features new angular headlamps. A letter-box grille also gives the nose a more aggressive appearance, while the rear has been generally tidied up with new tail-lights and a reshaped bumper.ModernInside, the upgrades are equally extensive, with the firm updating the cabin to give it a more modern feel. Santa Fe-style blue dials have been added, and build quality appears excellent. Our biggest complaint concerns the steering wheel, which adjusts for rake only, while we found that the headroom on offer is also very limited.With engines carried over from the outgoing Coupe, mechanical modifications are relatively limited. Entry-level models now get a 103bhp 1.6-litre powerplant, mid-range variants come with a 141bhp 2.0-litre, while the range-topper doesn't change, and retains its 162bhp 2.7-litre V6.Our model was equipped with the 2.0-litre. Although it's not particularly characterful, this motor provides decent acceleration from low speeds, but it's not exactly a top performer. Mated to a snappy five-speed man-ual gearbox, the four-cylinder engine takes the Coupe from 0-60mph in 9.3 seconds, with a top speed of 129mph in reserve. The biggest problem with the powertrain is actually engaging gears - the clutch has a high biting point and an awkward pedal, taking all the fun out of changing ratios. At higher revs, the engine also becomes strained and breathless.On the road, the Coupe's chassis soon shows its age, too. While the compact dimensions and low-slung seating position make the Hyundai seem nimble, the SIII can't change direction with the same agility you'd expect from a modern hot hatch. And the steering feels numb when compared with cutting-edge rivals.However, few buyers will have any complaints about their Korean car's list of standard equipment. If you opt for our 2.0-litre model, you'll get the full leather trim, climate and cruise control and 17-inch alloy wheels all thrown in. This version is priced at £17,995, while entry-level examples cost £15,745, with V6 variants available from £19,495.Even though there are very few Coupes available for this money, you have to ask what the Hyundai can offer that similarly priced hot hatches can't. The likes of Renaultsport's Clio 197, the forthcoming Vauxhall Corsa VXR and even Volkswagen's Golf GTI all provide stronger performance, better practicality and a far more modern package at SIII prices.So although Hyundai now has the budget Coupe class all to itself, we reckon most buyers will be better off spending their money in the blooming hot hatch market instead. What Next COMPARE CAR LOANS COMPARE CAR INSURANCE For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift! < Previous Next > 0 Comment Be the first to comment on this article You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join. Email: Password: Sponsored Results More HYUNDAI COUPE articles Car ReviewsDriver Power 2007: Hyundai CoupeFirst Drives: Coupe gets freshFirst Drives: Hyundai CoupeFirst Drives: Hyundai CoupeLong Term Tests: Hyundai Coupe V6Long Term Tests: Hyundai Coupe V6Long Term Tests: Hyundai Coupe V6Long Term Tests: Hyundai Coupe V6Used Car Tests: Hyundai CoupeNewsAuto Express News: Hyundai CoupeSpy Shots: Hyundai Coupé revealedAuto Express News: New Hyundai CoupeAuto Express News: Hyundai's new CoupéSpy Shots: Hyundai’s ‘Mustang’ hits road Related Index Pages Hyundai Hyundai Coupe Social Bookmarks Link to this article: For more details about purchasing this feature and/or images for editorial usage, please contact the Dennis Syndication team on pictures@dennis.co.uk Email a Friend Print this Pictures - Advertisement - Sponsored Results FIRST OPINION Hyundai’s newcomer is one of the last compact coupés – but its platform is now showing its age. Performance is reasonable and you get lots of kit for your money, yet a number of modern and seriously swift high-performance three-doors are available for a similar amount. While it’s the only competitively priced coupé about, the SIII now feels old-fashioned. AT A GLANCE Price: £17,995 Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl, 141bhp 0-60mph: 9.3 secs Top speed: 129mph Economy: 35.3mpg Torque: 186Nm CO2: 193g/km*Standard equipment: Leather trim, climate control, 17-inch alloys, metal pedal trim, front and side airbags, cruise control, heated front seats, iPod stereo port On sale: Now! - Advertisement - Company Website | Media Information | Contact Us | Privacy Notice | Subs Info | Voucher Codes | SitemapOur Other Websites: The First Post | Custom PC | Evo | IT Pro | IT Pro India | MacUser | Men's Fitness | Micro Mart | PC Pro | bit-tech | Know Your Mobile | Octane | Expert Reviews | Channel Pro | Know Your Cell | Know Your Mobile India | iGizmo | Digital SLR Photography | Den of Geek | The Week | Computer Shopper | Dennis Communications | Magazines | Mobile Phone Deals | Competitions | Health & Fitness | CarBuyer © 2010 Dennis Publishing Limited. All rights reserved.Licensed by Felden || Home News New Cars Used Cars New Car Data Features Resources Guides Multimedia Blog Motoring News Business and Industry Car Reviews Free Quotes Features Events Calendar Map of Mayhem A-Z Jargon Buster Traffic News Free Quotes Owner's Guides Buyer's Guides Videos Games New Hyundai SIII Coupe review Author: David MilesPublished: 10 April 2007 RESOURCES AND LINKS: • Get FREE QUOTES for new cars • Customised daily news alerts • hyundai special offers EMAIL ARTICLEPlease enter an email address:MessageFrom:Get FREE Quotes Now The affordable compact Coupe market is shrinking in the UK due to a lack of new models and the change in buying trends towards ‘superminis’ and retractable roof coupe-cabriolets. Customers now prefer ‘hot’ versions of ‘superminis’ from the Vauxhall Corsa and Peugeot 207 ranges. Coupe-cabriolets such as the Peugeot 207 CC, Ford Focus CC, Renault Megane CC, the Mazda MX-5 CC and the VW Eos have virtually replaced the affordable compact coupe. Other than the Hyundai three-door Coupe what is the competition? Perhaps only the Mazda RX-8, unless a customer wants to spend considerably more and buy a BMW Z4, Audi TT, Mercedes CLK or a Nissan 350Z. The Hyundai Coupe SIII as its name suggests is now in its third generation having initially been launched, initially for the American market, in 1996. Since that time it has received a number of facelifts and upgrades to keep it fresh and market ready. To date more than 43,000 right hand drive models have been sold in the UK, not bad for a very niche product and it still outsells the BMW 3 Series Coupe and Mercedes CLK. The draw of a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, high levels of specification and keen affordable prices attracted nearly 36,000 UK customers to Hyundai models last year of which 4,500 were Coupes. The main selling model by far, 80 per cent, are the two-litre petrol variants and a third of those are ordered with the automatic transmission, a rarity offering in a Coupe of this price and size. The 1.6-litre and 2.7-litre V6 petrol engined models share equally the remaining 20 per cent of sales. The big V6 model also has the option of automatic transmission. Prices range from £15,745 for the 1.6-litre up to £20,495 for the V6 auto. The best selling 2.0-litre petrol variant costs an attractive £17,995 and the auto gearbox, if chosen, will add £1,000 to that price. On sale from 1 January this year Hyundai say the Coupe SIII has been completely re-designed outside together with significant changes and enhancements inside. The entirely new front end features elongated headlights and a more aggressive letterbox like grille and new fog lights. New side air vents now incorporate the indicator repeater lights, while the re-shaped rear features a more sculpted look with fully integrated twin tailpipes for the 2.0 and V6 models and restyled rear light clusters. A new range of exterior bodywork colours are complimented by a choice of red or black interior trim, with leather a standard feature on all models. Even the entry-level 1.6 litre model comes with half leather trim. Both the Steel Grey and Stone Black variants come with red interior finish, while all other colours feature black interior trim. New to the Coupe SIII is Hyundai’s signature blue instrumentation illumination, which I personally find overpowering because there is too much of it in used in too many places. It can confuse the driver, as the main beam headlight warning light is also blue. The centre console layout has been redesigned for a cleaner look and easier usage. It also has a sleeker, sportier look and feel with a new metal-look finish, which has been tied in with metal-look finishes on the steering wheel and air vents helping bring the interior together with added sense of quality. For music lovers, the new Hyundai Coupe SIII comes with an iPod compatible CD/Radio stereo. The iPod port, found in the centre armrest, is standard on all models in the range. Hyundai models have always featured a high level of specification and the new Coupe SIII follows this tradition. The entry-level 1.6 comes with half leather trim, air-conditioning, a CD/Radio stereo with iPod port, driver, front passenger and side airbags, engine immobiliser, height adjustable seatbelts, remote central locking, leather steering wheel, electric front windows and door mirrors and new 16 inch alloy wheels. The 2.0 adds full leather trim, climate control, metal trimmed pedals and footrest, 17-inch alloy wheels, twin exhausts, cruise control and heated front seats. The top of the range V6 models adds a Thatcham category 1 alarm, automatic headlights, traction control, 6-speed manual gearbox and an automatic dimming rear view mirror. Engines and transmissions remain unchanged offering a compromise mix of affordability and outright performance. The entry-level model has a 1.6-litre, 103bhp, 4-cylinder 16 valve DOHC petrol unit, which is ideal for younger drivers venturing into sports car ownership for the first time, with an insurance rating of just 8D. This engine is linked to a 5-speed manual transmission, which produces mediocre performance levels with a top speed of 115 mph and a 0-62 mph dash in 11.9 seconds. The mid-range best selling model has a 2.0-litre, 16 valve DOHC petrol engine that develops 141bhp and can cover the 0-62 mph sprint in just 9.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 129 mph in five-speed manual gearbox form. Automatic transmission is an option. For the record the 2.7 litre V6 DOHC 24-valve version has a power output of 165bhp giving a top speed nearing 140 mph and goes from 0-62 mph in 8.6 seconds. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard or there is the option of automatic transmission. Those are the nuts and bolts of the range. Common to all is its two-plus two seating, wide opening side doors for ease of entry front and rear and a useful rear tailgate and a good sized 418-litre load area. There are lots of sportingly styled instruments, the windows and mirrors are operated electronically and the array of safety features is reasonable but by no means up to European levels. The headroom I found limited but the driving position was good. Ride and handling is competent, the car rides flat and level with little roll and the steering is precise although offers little in the way of feedback to the driver. The ride is very comfortable and only becomes unsettled over potholed town streets. The 2.0-litre engine was no ball of fire and became noisy if worked hard. Driven in a manner that our roads and regulations dictate these days, it was fine and the 34.9mpg average fuel consumption was a bonus. The ratios in the five-speed gearbox were well sorted and gave a responsive performance at all speeds. The gearchange was slick and easy to use. This car is what it is, well sized, well specified, well priced. It does everything moderately well and it looks good. MILESTONES Hyundai Coupe SIII 2.0 Price: £17,995 Engine/transmission: 2.0-litre, four cylinder DOHC 16V, 105bhp, 186Nm, 5-speed manual Performance: 129mph, 0-62mph 9.3 seconds, 35.3mpg (34.9mpg actual), CO2 193g/km, VED Band F £205 Insurance group: 10 For: Scarcity value, warranty, value for money, good looks, well equipped, relatively roomy, drives pretty well Against: Very little, sound but not inspiring driving for a Coupe, driving dynamics OK but lag behind European sports models See Also: Click here for more Hyundai stories Click here for Hyundai cars data No readers commentsBe the first to write a comment on this article Name Comments Validation Please enter the text to the left (case sensitive) Reload advertisement Recent Most Viewed Most Commented BMW finally unleashes 1 Series M Coupe BMW has revealed the much-anticipated 1 Series M Coupe; the first 1 Series model to wear the revered M badge. | 10/12/2010 16:19:29 Mitsubishi reveals new small car Mitsubishi has revealed images of a new low-cost ‘global small’ car which will be sold in several worldwide markets. | 10/12/2010 14:29:42 Electric cars to have iPhone-style apps Electric cars will be the ‘iPhone’ of the car industry, Nissan and Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn said in a speech at LeWeb 10 yesterday. | 10/12/2010 12:02:37 Survival tips and advice for stranded motorists Even the most prepared motorist can be beaten the weather, so it's worth knowing what to do in case you get stranded while out in your car this Winter. | 10/12/2010 09:53:26 Kia wins top design awards for new Sportage, Optima Kia’s two newest cars – the Sportage crossover and Optima saloon – have both received prestigious iF product design awards. | 09/12/2010 15:37:23 Food on the Move: Our peculiar relationship with service stations |08/12/2010 12:23:58 Service stations don't have a good reputation, so we asked author David Lawrence - a man who has breakfasted in over 100 and once spent Christmas Day in one - to explain why we should cherish these bizarre, melancholy, unique places. 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Although we're on the third generation now (that's roughly what the SIII in the name means), this is still basically the same car that first came on the market ten years ago, and the concept is starting to feel a little stale. Not that the Coupé is without appeal. If you ignore the horrible front-end styling introduced in 2000, and later wisely abandoned, this has always been Hyundai's best-looking car by a very substantial margin. In its current form it looks just a little bit like a Ferrari, which is perhaps why it is outstandingly popular in Italy. The looks are the best bit. The Coupé gives the impression that it's a sports car, but in practical terms it isn't. In impractical terms, it certainly is - if you are more than six feet tall you are always going to struggle with the severely limited headroom, and although there are four seats you can forget any attempt to put anyone larger than a healthy four-year old in the back. If you're interested in style, you'll consider this a reasonable swap for the exterior elegance. If you're interested in driving, you'll want a more sporting experience in return for the lack of room. The Coupé doesn't really provide this, though it makes a better job of it in two-litre form than the 2.7-litre V6 we tested recently does. The two-litre engine is the middle of three in the range (there's a 1.6 down at the bottom). It produces 141bhp, which is 24bhp shy of the V6 and leads to a one-second penalty in the 0-62mph time (to 9.3 seconds) and an 8mph shortfall in top speed (to 129mph). If we're still talking about trade-offs, the relative lack of straightline grunt is more than compensated for by vastly better fuel economy. And of course the 2.0 is nearly £2000 cheaper to buy. More . . . More Hyundai Coupe Photos Hyundai Gallery Back to Hyundai Road Test index Back to main Road Test index | SITE MAP PARIS SHOW 2006 BRITISH SHOW 2006 GENEVA SHOW 2006 DETROIT SHOW 2007 GENEVA SHOW 2007 FRANKFURT SHOW 2007 DETROIT SHOW 2008 GENEVA SHOW 2008 PARIS SHOW 2008 BUYING FINANCE NEW CAR BUYING GUIDE USED CAR BUYING GUIDE INSURANCE BUYING GUIDE GLOSSARY DRIVING TIPS MAINTENANCE PERFORMANCE AND STYLING || || Go to content Navigation New Cars Used Cars Business Users Warranty Service, Repair & MOT Accessories News/Events Motability About Us i10 i20 ix20 i30 i30 Estate Sonata ix35 Santa Fe i800 iLoad Content From £18,030 - £19,515 on the road Contact Us Book a test drive Order a brochure Hyundai Coupe SIII – from Error on the road The Hyundai Coupe SIII has always had an enviable reputation for delivering out of the ordinary sports car styling at very ordinary prices. And now, in its latest SIII guise, it's even more impressive. Safety, comfort, design and equipment levels have all been enhanced, and the driving experience is as exhilarating as ever. As an affordable head turner, nothing can touch the Hyundai Coupe SIII. Book a test driveExperience the Hyundai of your choice >>MOTABILITY CARS FROM NIL DEPOSIT >> Footer Contact Us Legal Privacy Sitemap © Copyright 2007 - 2010 Hyundai Motor UK Ltd Hyundai Motor UK Limited Registered Office: 728 London Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP11 1HE Company No:05446560 Go to top