2011 Hyundai Tiburon: It Will Make the Honda CR-Z Very Nervous

Okay, Hyundai has
been moving up in
the automotive rank-
ings. The new Sonata
is a real contender and
even a class leader.
Other carmakers are
concerned about the
new Sonata.

However, Hyundai is
at it again? Yes, again,
and such could be the
next Excedrin headache
for the Honda CR-Z.

Oh, it will be just a small headache, right? No, it may well be a migraine, one
that lasts who knows how long!

Hyundai's 2012 Veloster concept-inspired hatchback has been seen con-
ducting cold weather testing. Although the production vehicle will likely
be called the Tiburon rather than the Veloster, it is scheduled to go on sale
in late 2011 and indications are that it will give the Honda CR-Z a (headache)
run for its money.

At a Hyundai sponsored event, the automaker announced that its goal for
the upcoming Tiburon is 40 mpg on the highway without being a hybrid.
This is a lofty goal of which the attainment remains to be seen, however,
I think that such fuel mileage is indeed obtainable.

The spy photos indicate that the Tiburon will be a three-door hatchback
with proportions very similar to the CR-Z's. This Hyundai will be powered
by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine delivering about 140 horsepower.
Additionally, at the rear it will have high mounted taillights and a short
overhang.

Honda will not have the small front-wheel drive sporty high-mileage coupe
segment all to itself for long. And regarding performance, Hyundai will
likely be also offering a tuned 200 hp version of the vehicle.

Well, nobody likes headaches but this one might actually be a welcome
one for consumers!

Have an auto question or comment? You can email it to me at
Kbusch3@verizon.net. Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best
for the Price..." www.DriveTheBestBook.com.