Hyundai is getting ready to launch an updated and slightly facelifted ix35 at this week’s Geneva Motor Show.
The overall design changes are minimal with the most notable differences being the addition of LED daytime running lights, new bi-xenon headlamps and a subtle redesign of the grille. There are also some minor interior changes with a new instrument cluster and some upgrades to the quality of materials used in the cabin.
Some markets will get a new engine line-up. The current Theta II 2,0-litre will be replaced by Hyundai’s Nu 2,0 litre GDI petrol engine, while the R-Series diesel unit gets a new low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation system.
The refreshed ix35 will benefit from Hyundai’s Flex Steer system that allows the driver to switch between three driving modes – normal, comfort and sport.
Hyundai South Africa has told us that there will be two sets of changes to the local ix35. The first will occur within the next week or so when the ix35 supply switches from Korea to the Czech Republic. While this change isn’t a facelift, there are some minor exterior differences between the Korean-sourced vehicles and those from the Czech Republic. The company has also confirmed that the facelifted ix35 will make its way here, but it was unable to give us a specific date for its arrival.