Hyundai Coupe a real stunner

HYUNDAI pulled out all the stops and transformed their image from worthy ugly duckling producer into chic, designer swan when they developed their acclaimed Coupe, demand for which far exceeded supply. It was the start of a whole new look for the Koreans.

Now, capitalising on that success they have pulled out yet more stops with the arrival of their more aggressively, facelifted 2000 model.

It’s a stunner with perfectly balanced proportions. With its swoopy curves and dramatic rear haunches creating a lean, muscular look, the Lantra-based 2+2 Coupe sits low and wide. Strongly arched wheel openings support the broad-shouldered fenders creating a visual mass that is offset by the pinched mid-section.

Hyundai designers, however, saw need to update and targeted the front and rear where they made significant changes. Out have gone the oval headlights in favour of twin circular ones.

The front fog lamps, indicator lights and airdam are now integrated into the bumper to project the sporty, aggressive look. At the back the rear combination lamp has been neatly sculpted to fit in with the overall look and the lamps are extra large for improved visibility. A smart rear spoiler finishes off the dynamic look. Alloy wheels are standard. There are also new side mouldings.

Inside there is more to appeal. Silver metallic detailing on the doors, dash and dials improve on the previously black interior and make it a lot more sporty. Front leg and shoulder room is fine although for those, even of average height, it’s a head-brushing job. Which means six-footers and over need to recline the seat for extra clearance. Rear accommodation, for which access is still limited, is more suitable for small children. The boot is of an adequate proportions.

Standard features on the two versions offered, 1.6 FX and 2.0 FX, include antilock braking, central locking, driver’s airbag, driver’s seat height and lumbar adjustments, electric sunroof and windows, immobiliser, four-speaker stereo radio cassette, leather steering wheel and gearshift knobs, power steering, integrated brake light, rear wash/wipe, split folding rear seats, sunglasses holder in the roof, velour upholstery (1.6), 205/50 tyres, three year/100,000 kilometre warranty and one-year AA membership. Additionally, the 2.0 litre – our test car for the week – adds cruise control and leather upholstery with air conditioning and automatic transmission optional.

POWER: This was supplied on our test car by the torquey 2.0 litre 16-valver. It isn’t the quietest of performers, although its sporty growl has a touch of the Alfa Romeo’s about it. In fact the engine can become quite vocal when it is worked hard.

However, it delivers very well – 137 bhp at 6000rpm, 134 lb.ft. of torque at 4900rpm for a 0 to 62mph in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 125mph – and is great fun to drive. I averaged 32mpg.

Hyundai engineers put a lot of effort into making the new car quieter and more civilised inside by reducing the amount of NVH (noise, vibration and harshness).

The Porsche- tweaked chassis is a real gem. The car is perfectly balanced, handles brilliantly and rides to perfection. It loves to be driven hard and is so surefooted on corners. Gearchanging, too, is slick but I found the power steering a little heavy and unsporty.