Hyundai iX35 2,0 CRDi GLS 4×4 AT

HYUNDAI has been nipping at the heels of the mainstream manufacturers for the better part of two decades. But, as in any competitive industry, all players improve and the bar is continually being raised. However, the Korean manufacturer has long been promising to catch and overtake the competition – and now, perhaps, it has.

Following the introduction of all-new models such as the i10, i20 and i30 comes the iX35. This soft-roader SUV – models in this sub-segment are also often referred to as crossovers – is the replacement for the highly successful Tucson, but uses an alphanumeric name in keeping with Hyundai's latest naming strategy.

At centre stage on the nose is a hexagonal grille treatment that links upper and lower air intakes. Upswept headlamps add a sense of dynamism. Two styling lines that start at the light clusters front and rear terminate on the front and rear doors, respectively. A rising waistline creates a slim window line, especially on the rear doors. Black sections on the lower portions of the doors, metal roof rails and 18-inch alloys help reinforce the SUV appearance. Overall, the iX35 represents a dramatic style revolution over the Tucson and manages to stand out from other samey-samey vehicles in this segment.

Hyundai's interior designers have followed the bold looks of the exterior and the results are impressive. For a compact SUV the styling is on par with models from a class above. The facia and interior trim display excellent perceived quality. An "X" theme graces the steering wheel and centre of the facia. The "arms" of the X are highlighted in satinfinish metal-look plastic. The surfaces are not soft touch but still have a pleasant tactility. Pianokey black plastic is used sparingly on the audio interface. All the modern formats and plug-ins are accommodated by the audio system and sound is delivered via an amplifier to six-speakers and a sub-woofer. All models in the range feature satellite audio controls on the steering; we like the toggle action of the volume switch in particular.

Behind the steering wheel are two simple, clearly marked dials for engine revs and speed. In between these two deep-set gauges lies a digital display for fuel level, engine temp, odometer and info provided by the onboard trip computer. This display, as well as the instrumentation and all LCD info on the facia, is lit in a purpley-blue hue, which lends uniformity to the layout. One gripe is that the steering wheel does not offer reach adjustment, which is a real pity considering the wide range of owners iX35s are likely to attract.

Dual-zone climate control is fitted as standard. In fact, this range-topper lacks for nothing, short of seat heaters and satellite navigation if one is being really picky. The extensive list of standard features includes a reversing camera (with a screen handily mounted on the interior rear view mirror), cruise control and smart key entry with keyless start.

This top-spec diesel model is fitted with full leather trim. The front chairs are wide, comfortable items, with the driver's seat boasting electric adjustment. Sadly, it does not drop low enough for all tastes. There is an abundance of room in the cabin. Front occupants are seated quite far apart and even our taller testers found enough legroom when seated in the back. Two panoramic roofs are fitted as standard, so even rear passengers can work on their sun tans.

The luggage area features several "curry" hooks and a second 12V power point, in addition to one found on the facia. A full 304 dm3 of our ISO-standard measuring blocks fitted into the boot, not bad considering that a full-size alloy spare resides below the boot board. Unfortunately, Hyundai missed a trick by not including any kind of hidey-hole storage alongside the spare.

Power is provided by an inline four-pot oil-burner. The newgeneration R-diesel powerplant features a variable geometry turbocharger. Importantly, as the exhaust system is fitted with a particulate filter, Hyundai insists that owners use 50 ppm diesel. Maximum power is quoted as 130 kW and an impressive 392 N.m of torque is delivered at just 1 800 r/min. A compact six-speed automatic transmission is mated with the engine.

The power delivery is virtually lag-free and comes on forcefully at around the 2 000 r/min mark. Against the clock we managed a zero to 100 km/h time of 10,3 seconds, mere fractions off Hyundai's claimed time. Top speed is just shy of 200 km/h. We measured an average stopping time of 3,1 seconds over our 10-stop brake test routine, which earns an excellent rating when compared with other SUVs. But we can't help but wonder whether different rubber would yield even better results from the 300 mm front and 284 mm all-disc brake set-up.

Under normal conditions, 100 per cent of the available power is delivered to the front wheels. When matters underfoot (underwheel?) get slippery, up to half the maximum power can be directed to the rear axle via a viscous coupling. If one ventures offroad, an electronic lock will ensure a constant even split of torque to both axles.

Ride and handling is commendable. The iX35 is suspended by MacPherson struts up front and a compact multi-link arrangement at the rear. Road intrusions tend to sound harsher through the suspension than they are actually felt.

TEST SUMMARY
Hyundai's iX35 is a very impressive newcomer. It has all the bells and whistles anyone will ever need from a passenger car. Even this top-of-range model offers excellent value for money, especially when compared with its rivals. The list price includes a realistic five years/100 000 km service plan on top of the five years/150 000 km manufacturer's warranty and five years/150 000 km roadside assistance. If that does not provide peace of mind, we're not sure what will.

This new model is sure to become a regular sight on our roads and, when the time comes to vote for CAR's annual Top 12 Compact SUV Best Buy, this car will undoubtedly be a strong contender. If you are looking to buy a compact SUV/crossover vehicle, the iX35 should be on your short list.

Back to top