Hyundai Coupé Coupe

Performance
The 1.6-litre engine in the range is underpowered so, unless you take life at a seriously leisurely pace, opt for the 2.0-litre or 2.7-litre V6. The six-speed V6 is the quickest, but the 2.0-litre isn't that far behind, even if you do have to stir the five-speed gearbox a fair bit to keep it going on a hilly route.

Ride & handling
The steering could do with more feedback, but it doesn't pull any nasty surprises and the car understeers only a little. The Coupe is reasonably well composed, limiting body roll well through corners, but the suspension can kick a bit too much on bumpy surfaces.

Refinement
The V6 is smooth, but makes a pleasing snarl as the revs rise. The 2.0-litre is coarse when revved hard, while all models suffer from too much wind and road noise. A long journey on a motorway will leave you tired

Buying & owning
The Hyundai is a cost-effective way into a stylish-looking coupe. It comes well equipped for the cash, and the warranty package is outstanding. The 2.0-litre is only a little thirstier than the slow 1.6-litre, but the V6 will have to take significantly more trips to the petrol pumps. Resale values are likely to be reasonably strong, but not outstanding.

Quality & reliability
The Coupe's mechanicals are well proven - a polite way of saying they've been around for a long time, but can be relied on. The cabin has some old-fashioned-looking plastics, but feels well built and should stay largely rattle-free. Electrics are the most likely thing to go wrong - check sunroofs, too.

Safety & security
Every model in the range comes with front and side airbags, but only the V6 is given stability control - something we want fitted to every car on sale. Remote central locking and alarm is standard - a Thatcham Category 1 version for the V6 - but don't expect deadlocks or marked parts

Behind the wheel
Controls are well laid out and easy to use - you'll quickly adapt to having the indicator stalk on the right and could well prefer it (you can change gear and indicate at the same time). The torque indicator dial seems a little over the top, and it's best to ignore the fuel consumption dial situated next door if you're in the V6. Handy features include a mobile-phone slot, cup-holders and a hatch release button.

Space & practicality
The Hyundai is particularly poor for headroom. The steering wheel also only adjusts for height, and the position of the clutch pedal may make it difficult for some to make themselves comfortable. Rear seats are understandably thin, but the hatchback opens to reveal a large load area with a net to secure loads. The split rear seats can fold to increase capacity even further.

Equipment
All models have air-conditioning, electric windows, remote central locking, an alarm and a MP3-compatible CD stereo. The 2.0 and 2.7 V6 add leather seats and a sunroof. The V6 comes with a standard six-speed gearbox or an optional Shiftronic semi-auto; the 2.0-litre comes with a five-speed manual and an optional four-speed auto.