The 2008 Hyundai Tiburon evokes classic sports car design in its streamlined looks and superior performance capability. However, those on a budget will be happy to know that the 2008 Tiburon will not break the bank. Unlike many other sports cars on the market like the Scion tC, the Tiburon is stylish and affordable. Four different trims offer buyers many options, all of which will impress and perform. While the gas estimated MPG is not spectacular, it is competitive with other vehicles in its category.

The GS trim comes standard with a 2.0L 16-valve DOHC inline 4-cylinder. While the 4-cylinder may turn away some buyers looking for more power, dual overhead cams put the engine in competition with many V6s. For buyers seeking a bit more power, the GT, GT Limited, and SE trims raise the bar with a 2.7L 24-valve DOHC V6. All four trims also come standard with dual exhaust, certainly a staple for an authentic sports car. The GS, GT, and GT Limited each can be fitted with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC, Hyundai's adaptation of Porsche's Tiptronic automatic transmission.

Stylistically, the 2008 Tiburon blows away the opposition. The 2008 is aerodynamic, sophisticated, and will certainly turn heads. Its raised rear is similar to the stylings of a Porsche or Mazda MX5. The tilted downward nose, graceful styling along the sides, and clean grille design make the Tiburon elegant as well as sporty. A blue luminescent lighting is implemented in the dash cluster and center-dash stereo system. A futuristic addition for those living in highly-populated areas is the Air Quality System that senses excessive pollutants in the outside air. If there is a high level of pollutants the Air Quality System will automatically begin recirculating the interior air to prevent inhalation of smog or other air pollutants. Buyers living in Los Angeles should be thrilled by this addition.

The four trims range in price from an inexpensive $17,025 to a bit heftier $22,375. While many other makers simply tack on gizmos and gadgets to raise the overall cost, Hyundai actually provides a more powerful engine, a higher-performance transmission, track-tuned suspension, electronic stability control, and brake assist. Also, in comparison with other cars in its class like the Ford Mustang, the Tiburon is either equivalently priced or more affordable. Though Ford and Chevrolet's comparable models get slightly better gas mileage, Hyundai's Tiburon comes pretty close with an estimated 16 city MPG and 24 highway MPG. Also, Hyundai's 60,000 mile warranty surpasses both Ford and Chevrolet.

Taken as a whole, the 2008 Hyundai Tiburon may have a few flaws, but the pros far outweigh the cons. High-class styling, excellent additions, and economical pricing all lend themselves to a first-rate sports car. Sure, the gas mileage leaves a bit to be desired, but most who crave a fast sports car are worried about performance and power, not a few extra bucks at the pump.