2001 Hyundai Tiburon review from North America

The driver’s side automatic window regulator broke. This caused the driver’s side window to fall into the door well and the window was not operable. The glass did not break and the repair was in a few hours at the local Hyundai dealership for a little over $200 including labor. They replaced the automatic regulator (the device that powers the window up and down) and put the glass back on its track. This happened when the car was over 4 years old in 2005.

Very little back seat leg room. Then again, this is not a family car.

Very minor paint peeling around the driver’s side door lock. (I do NOT have remote keyless entry and use the key every time I enter the car probably resulting in the extra wear on the paint around the lock.)

I bought my 2001 Tiburon new in the same year. I still own the car and LOVE it. It has only been in the shop once (other than maintenance) to replace the driver’s side automatic window regulator (the device that powers the window up and down.) It has never left me stranded on the side of the road.

It’s now over five years old and has never had any mechanical problems. Never. The maintenance performed on this car has been: replaced tail-light bulbs, replaced headlight bulbs, replaced the battery once, oil changes, new tires as they wear, and the 60,000 mile suggested tune-up which was done this year (2006).

The fold down 50-50 split back seats are wonderful. For long vacation trips, my spouse and I fold down the back seats and pile in two large suitcases, golf clubs, a cooler, a hanging garment bag, a fold down dog kennel, a dog, and little odd and ends. I’ve also carried a new 37" TV inside the box with the seats folded down. Obviously this is not a family car, but it was perfect for just me and now is still perfect for a couple and their dog.

I have many people approach me about my Tiburon either because they are proud Tiburon owners as well or they are thinking of buying a Tiburon. I always give glowing recommendations about reliability, gas mileage, body integrity (no rust and I’ve always lived near salt water), and overall visual appeal.