Hyundai Coupe (1996 - 2002) : SITTING PRETTY

Monday March 31

Models Covered: 2 dr coupe [1.6 and 2.0, i and SE]

BY ANDY ENRIGHT

The Hyundai Coupe was the first genuinely desirable Korean car, its swoopy styling reminiscent of something far more expensive. Indeed an independent survey rated the Coupe as one of Britains sexiest cars. Priced at a level which includes rival offerings such as the Ford Puma and Renault Megane Coupe, the Hyundai always had a hard task on its hands, but like so many other things in life, looks count. The facelift that the car received in 1999 was, by and large, not well received, taking many of the Coupes most distinctive features and changing them for something more extreme but less well balanced.

Those who have owned a Coupe will attest to its fine handling and benign nature. If one can overcome the badge on the bonnet, it has the ability to seduce.

Early shape (pre 99) coupes cut a handsome dash, although their interiors are dark, with high window lines and an uninspiring dashboard design. The 2.0 engined models are worth aiming for, as they have the power to exploit the Porsche-tuned chassis. 2.

0 SE models offer air conditioning, cruise control, leather upholstery and four-speaker stereo CD system. This is over and above the standard fitments on the 2.0 i model which run to electric tilt and slide sunroof, alloy wheels, electric front windows and mirrors and leather-trimmed steering wheel. Also fitted are remote central locking and alarm, body coloured bumpers and a drivers airbag.

The F2 limited edition sold 1100 units in the UK and is identifiable by a chrome mesh front grille, deep front spoiler, bigger alloy wheels, and F2 aluminium kick plates, carpeting and gear knob. All post 1999 facelifted models received a brighter interior and a more extrovert exterior treatment.

An early 1.6 i Coupe on a 97 P plate will be worth around £935, with the automatic option commanding £970. The better specified 1.6i SE model was introduced in January 99 and should reach £1,390.

A 2.0 i on a 96 P plate will fetch £1,070, with the SE models garnering another £200. Expect to budget another £300 for the automatic option on the SE. A 2000 V plate 2.

0i SE automatic will be worth £1,775. Values of the rarer F2 are very much dependent upon mileage and condition, but as a guide, they retailed new at £150 more than the equivalent 2.0i SE model. Insurance for the Coupe is a modest Group 9 for the 1.

6 i, rising to Group 10 for the 1.6i SE, Group 12 for the 2.0 litre cars and Group 13 for the F2 designated models.

Hyundai have developed a reputation for producing reliable cars, and the Coupe is no exception. It seems few owners exploited the dynamic capabilities of the handling and so most examples will have led a relatively sedate existence.

(approx based on a 1.6i SE ) A new exhaust system for the Coupe will cost £380, whilst a set of rear brake pads retails for £35. A radiator will set you back £163, and be prepared to find £292 for a new alternator. A starter motor is £231 and do try not to break a headlight.

If this fate befalls you, expect to see £221 go the way of your friendly Hyundai dealer.

Whisper it if you will, but the Hyundai Coupe is a genuinely competent drivers car. Possibly due to its attractive shape and bargain pricing, the Coupe gained a rather effeminate, salon chariot image that belied its true capabilities. On early models the steering was slightly vague, but it has always been difficult to fault its poise and ability to transmit its power to the road. A properly sorted Coupe should corner flat and hard, with a minimum of body roll and with the chassis generating enough feedback to let the driver know whats happening.

The 1.6 litre engine is a surprisingly willing partner, although the 2.0 is obviously the unit to go for if outright speed is a priority. Hitting 60 in 8.

6 seconds, the larger engined variant is quick enough and capable enough to take out just for the sheer fun of it. Expect to see around 36mpg at the pumps for the 1.6 litre cars and around 31mpg for the 2.0 litre models.

The Hyundai Coupe is a good choice if a value for money package of voluptuous looks and keen ability are high on your agenda. If you care about the badge on the nose, the quality of the interior or outright performance, the Coupe may not hold such allure. To summarise, a well looked-after Coupe stands out as a knowledgeable buy in a congested market sector. Beauty it seems, really is more than skin deep.