Hyundai’s Tiburon replacement to get 140-hp direct-injected 4-cylinder

We’ve known for a while that Hyundai is working on a replacement for the front-wheel-drive replacement of the Tiburon that will sell alongside the rear-wheel-drive Hyundai Genesis Coupe. Speaking with Hyundai’s President and CEO John Krafcik, Inside Line has now learned more details on the upcoming Tiburon replacement.

Krafcik said that the model will look 70 to 80 percent like the Veloster Concept that was unveiled in 2007. He said that the car will be a bit smaller than the Kia Forte Koup – “It’s Accent-sized,” Krafcik said. “Think of it like a four-passenger Honda CRX. It’ll be a little car you can take out and wring its neck and still get good mileage. Fun and economical, with a great power-to-weight ratio.”

Krafcik went on to say that power will come from a 1.6L 4-cylinder direct-injection engine producing 140-hp. He said that the model should average an estimated 40 mpg.

As for the name, Krafcik said that Tiburon and Veloster are being considered. The model should arrive at Hyundai dealerships in 2011.

– By: Stephan Calogera

Source: Inside Line