SECOND-HAND SENSEFor a company that produces a fairly standard range of cars, Korea's Hyundai has produced a couple of real winners. The first is the Santa Fe, which has become extremely popular as an affordable alternative to far more expensive off-roaders. Second is the Coupe - it's among the best looking in the class and extremely well priced.
The Coupe was not always so elegant. When it first appeared in 1996 it was rather overweight looking, but the version launched two years ago has been described as a competitor to a Ferrari in the styling stakes.
It certainly has fine lines and a decidedly European look to it. Hyundai has managed to shed its very Eastern influences with the Coupe and given it a truly Western appeal. I've been asked more than once who was the maker of the Coupe.
The car certainly doesn't look like one that has an entry level 1.6 engine but that is its true appeal. The Coupe is popular precisely because it has a smaller engine that makes it easy to run and insure while having looks of a far more expensive car.
It's a low-slung car that is quite rewarding to drive. Handling is very good and ride is excellent. The 1.6 engine is smooth and does its work efficiently and quietly. With a limited power output of 105 horse power, the 0-60 MPH time is over 11 seconds but, frankly, who needs any more in what is predominantly a city car.
You won't find too many Hyundai Coupes in rural Ireland, where road conditions would sorely test this low-slung car.
Driver and front passenger are accommodated comfortably but those in the rear seats will be fine for short journeys only. Unlike other coupés the Hyundai has a boot that will actually take plenty and the rear seats can fold to provide more. The interior is smart and the dashboard sets off the sporty look.
Standard equipment includes front and side airbags, ABS, alloy wheels, electric windows and mirrors and a leather gear knob.
The Coupe has a good reliability record and there are no recall details to hand.
Second-hand prices are attractive for what is an attractive package. A 1.6 four-year-old model with all of the above equipment and just 12,000 miles on the clock has an asking price of €14,950. A two-year old model with the same engine and levels of equipment (plus a sunroof) has an asking price of €18,500.