By: Jeffrey N. Ross
Autotropolis.com
With the recent introduction of the highly anticipated rear-wheel drive Hyundai Genesis coupe, the company’s other coupe, the Tiburon, is set to quietly exit stage left.
After its introduction in 1997, the front-wheel drive Hyundai Tiburon will take a hiatus following the 2008 model year. Hyundai has repeatedly stated that the Genesis coupe is not a replacement for the Tiburon, so the possibility of a future coupe with front-wheel drive is a solid possibility.
Although no replacement has been announced for the Tiburon, there will be no lack of excitement from the South Korean automaker. In addition to rear-wheel drive, the Genesis coupe will feature sporty looks and a 310-horsepower V-6.
The Tiburon helped Hyundai improve its image by giving the company a sporty, performance-minded coupe to compliment the economic, fuel-efficient sedans that completed the rest of the lineup. Since the Tiburon was introduced, Hyundai’s lineup has swelled from four to nine vehicles, including three SUVs (Tucson, Santa Fe and Veracruz), a minivan (Entourage) and a luxury sedan (Azera).