The Good
The 2003 Hyundai Tiburon offered a sporty design and relatively nimble handling, appealing to emotional buyers. Practical advantages included its affordability and decent fuel efficiency, especially with the 4-cylinder engine. While not a powerhouse, the V6 provided adequate performance. It represented a good value proposition for budget-conscious consumers seeking a stylish coupe.
The Bad
The 2003 Hyundai Tiburon's weaknesses include its interior quality, which isn't as refined as some competitors. The rear seats are cramped, and some owners have reported issues with electrical components and premature wear of certain parts. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Check for maintenance records and signs of neglect.
2003 Hyundai Tiburon: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Inline-4 (Base, GS): This engine produced around 130-140 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque.
- 2.7L V6 (GT, GT V6): This engine generated approximately 170-181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque.
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L I4: 130-140 hp
- 2.7L V6: 170-181 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.0L I4: 24 city / 31 highway mpg (manual transmission)
- 2.7L V6: 19 city / 26 highway mpg (automatic transmission)
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.0L I4: 8.5-9.5 seconds
- 2.7L V6: 7.0-8.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not designed for towing; negligible towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
- GS: Similar to the base model with minor upgrades.
- GT: Typically included alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and upgraded interior trim.
- GT V6: Featured the 2.7L V6 engine, leather seats (optional), and a sunroof (optional). Could also include upgraded sound system, and cruise control.
2003 Hyundai Tiburon Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2003 |
Make | Hyundai |
Model | Tiburon |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Coupe |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Korea |
Manufacturing City | ULSAN |
Dimensions
Doors | 3-Door |
Curb Weight | - |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2.7 L V-6 |
Engine Size | 2.7L |
Engine Cylinders | 6 |
Transmission | - |
Transmission Type | - |
Transmission Speeds | - |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Hyundai Tiburon Have?
Recalls for the 2003 Tiburon were relatively limited, but it's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any outstanding recalls related to safety or emissions. Long-term reliability can be affected by infrequent maintenance. The timing belt on the V6 engine should be replaced at recommended intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, may wear out over time, leading to a rougher ride and reduced handling performance. Engine oil leaks are also a known concern, particularly in older models with higher mileage. Ensure regular oil changes and inspections to mitigate this issue.
How long will the 2003 Hyundai Tiburon last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included front airbags. Side airbags were not typically available. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were optional on some models. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be consulted for specific details, but generally, the 2003 Tiburon received moderate ratings. Keep in mind that safety standards have significantly improved since 2003. The lack of modern safety technology is a consideration for safety-conscious buyers. Optional features were limited, but included things like a sunroof, leather seats, and upgraded audio systems. The tech features are basic by today's standards.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2003 Hyundai Tiburon Prices and Market Value
2003 Hyundai Tiburon Cost of Ownership
2003 Hyundai Tiburon Fuel Efficiency
2003 Hyundai Tiburon Safety Rating
NHTSA
2003 Hyundai Tiburon Recalls & Defects
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
Unknown or Other
AIR Bags:frontal
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
Suspension:front:control ARM
2003 Hyundai Tiburon Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Hyundai Tiburon Compare to Other Coupe?
In terms of features, the Tiburon generally offered fewer standard features than some of its rivals, but at a lower price point. Reliability-wise, the Honda and Toyota models tend to be more dependable in the long run. The Tiburon's main advantage was its price; it was typically more affordable than its competitors.
Alternatives to the Tiburon include the Acura RSX (for better performance and refinement, but at a higher price), the Toyota Celica (for similar sporty styling and better reliability), or a newer Honda Civic Si (for improved overall performance, reliability, and safety features, albeit at a higher cost). For a similar price point, later model year Hyundai Tiburons might also be a good option.
Ranks #1276 Sedan
1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
1276 | 2003 Hyundai Tiburon | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Hyundai Tiburon a Good Coupe?
Given its age, buying a new one isn't an option. A used 2003 Tiburon can be a reasonable choice *if* you're willing to perform some maintenance and repairs. Be aware of potential reliability issues and rust. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.
Sater Bevereaux on January 30, 2023
Sporty and reliable- good on gas.I bought my 03 Tiburon used in 2006, with 52,000 miles. It is really reliable. Drove it from Virginia through W. Virginia to Kentucky for years. I service and do basic maintenance myself, it is quite easy to upkeep and is good on gas. I am confident on the interstate around large vehicles as it has the quickness to getaway. No plans to sell that baby- Torah!
BeagleMom on November 1, 2022
Zoom Zoom!!!!!only car i ever bought based solely on how it looked!! i was a trucker at the time, and hubby said it was time to get me a new (to me) car, so i started paying attention to the four-wheelers i saw on the interstates. when i first saw one, i had no idea what it was.... a mustang? a porsche? definitely had the style of a fancy foreign job!! when i finally noticed the emblem, my first thought was *it's a hyundai!! it can't be that expensive!!!* hubby went to carmax, test drove it, and bought it for me. it was a year old and had 10,000 miles on it. a friend of our went with him and drove it home, was very impressed!! i nearly had kittens when i came home and saw it in the driveway!! fast forward 18+ years.....car just turned over 65,000 miles (i was a trucker, i just visited my car when i came home). in the beginning had a couple minor glitches with the window motor, warranty took care of that. and the centerpiece fascia(sp?) has gotten a bit sticky, picked up an aluminum replacement for that. other than that, i LOVE my car!!! i've blown the doors off every car that's challenged me, and it still feels like a new car to me!! so much fun to drive, decent fuel mileage, if i could change anything about the design, i would have the mirrors on the hood, their location on the doors is a blind spot for me, maybe because i'm short?? my car is almost 20 years old, and i will be pried from it!!! this little old lady LOVES her zoomie car!!! i get lots of compliments on the way it looks, and i love that i don't see very many around....i feel like i'm driving an elite sports car!! and, my hubby has told me, he's never seen one broke down on the side of the road.....and i live in mountainous area, and my road trips are always on winding mountain roads. woohoo!!!!
Joshtidwell9306 on July 7, 2020
Very reliable sporty and very fast very fineThis is a very nice vehicle fast reliable and very good looking inside in very nice conditions it has been very well tookin care of .
Tibby on May 15, 2020
AWESOME COUPEAwesome 2 door got mine used. Issues cheap window switch and washer fluid quit but fun moves like a sport car GT V6 fun fun car especially used they are qurky cars
dark shark on January 8, 2020
coolest car I've ever owned! 15 years of automotivtotally fun to drive and easy on the eyes! it handles great and is quite punchy too! the only weakness lies in the poor quality of door handles, electric windows. rear window struts etc., charcoal cartridge etc.
Scott on October 29, 2019
This car will not die.Bought this car a year and half ago with 180XXX MILES and it currently at 215XXX MILES. I have had ZERO problems with this car. 6 speed feels great in it.
Sportscarz#1inc on June 26, 2019
Most reliable car I ownedThis car met all the requirements I need. It's very clean. And it never it has no issues at all, super clean and no issues
H3Hope22 on October 28, 2018
Nice little carVery good gas mileage. Very sporty. Nice stereo system in it. Hardly had to fix anything on it. A lot of extra options. Comes in nice colors
Baeza92 on May 22, 2018
Good starter carGreat for first time driver starter car. Has some cosmetic damage but nothing major normal wear and tear. Overall great vehicle to start with. And reliable and affordable with gas
Summer ride lover on March 3, 2018
Fun, enjoyable, reliable no problems vehicleExcellent vehicle, only regular maintenance required except all the extras I added. Fun to drive lots of get up and go. Many people compliment what a sweet ride it is.