Hyundai Coupe (2002 - 2009) 2.0 SE 3d (2003/03) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I've been told its a mid-life crisis car (even though i'm 20!). But it shows I don't like to blend with the crowd, and maybe show off a bit!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They all really like it and think I've done well for myself. Particularly my friends who all have fiestas, corsas and boring little superminis - yet I've got sporty coupe and paid less than them too.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No because I would never buy the same car twice, but if I did I would go for the V6 version.

What are you likely to buy next?

BMW Z4 or an Alfa Romeo 159.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,000

When did you buy the car?

March 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, it was advertised for £2600, and managed to knock £600 off!

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Loved the looks and the value for money and was reasonably cheap to insure when you compare with the like of a BMW for example.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Its lovely to drive, it rides well and has a nice gear change (suited to fast driving) weighty steering that feels good on turn-in to corners. The car handles well too. Engine-wise: it does shift and above 4500rpm when the VVT kicks in it flies! However it never feels smooth, instead course and not exactly comfortable. The power it has isn't usable in day to day driving - by the time you reach the power band its time to back off. Therefore it can be rather dull.plus all your fuel goes trying to get any power out of the engine and its quite noisy too. On the motorway there is always power there, but sounds like it needs a 6th gear. Wind noise is very intrusive.

What's it like to park?

Visibility isn't the best due to the low seating position and high window line (but that's what makes the car feel a bit special)and can be difficult to judge the distance from kerbs.

Have you had any problems with the car?

A wheel bearing and a section of exhaust (not anything wrong with the car - just wear and tear).

What's most practical about your car?

Probably the massive boot.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Leather seats, sunroof and cruise control.