Hyundai IX35 Crossover Review

Published Date: 5th Mar 2014

The Crossover car market is becoming more and more crowded as its popularity rises, to name a few; the Nissan Qashqai, Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage, Skoda Yeti and of course the Hyundai IX35.

And with this stiff competition it’s no surprise the Hyundai IX35 has been revised and refreshed to compete at the top level. It benefits from an updated suspension system and some new styling tweaks, Hyundai promised the car would be more eye-catching than ever before and be altogether a better car to drive. With all new trim levels and extra kit to add even more showroom appeal, they also said you will have a sharper driving experience with new suspension settings.

Otherwise, the new Hyundai IX35 remains mostly unchanged, which means the exact same line-up of engines as the previous model. You also get to choose between the high efficiency two-wheel-drive option and the super four-wheel-drive transmission.

In most parts Hyundai has played it safe with the new looks of the IX35, which give you the same mix of bold curves and creases, tall stature and slab sides.

When you inspect the car carefully you can reveal the LED daytime running lights and redesigned tail-lamps, and that’s all you can get excited about as there isn’t much else. All models get body-coloured bumpers and door mirrors and alloy wheels, while the SE version and above will benefit from silver roof rails. Some of the optional extras include bi-xenon headlamps, 18-inch alloys and chrome door handles and this gives the car an extra bit of style on top.

There have also been very few changes to the interior cabin; here you can find the same astatically pleasing dashboard and a premium-quality finish. With plenty of soft materials, the switchgear can operates with precision, blue backlighting gives the Hyundai IX35 a classy feel at night and the high-set driving position provides a very commanding view as if you’re in a watch tower. The entry models are not blessed with sought after features, but the SE versions and above feature electrically controlled heated front and rear seats, automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity and a leather trimmed wheel. If you choose the SE Nav, you’ll be treated to the Hyundai’s upgraded satellite navigation system, which features a high-tech seven-inch touch screen display and with it comes extremely clear mapping.

The majority of changes to the Hyundai ix35 have been directed to the suspension, where you’ll find an adoption of new dampers and side-load coil springs, which aim to deliver a much smoother ride and gives you sharper handling than before.

When on the move the difference is very hard to detect, though. The Hyundai IX35 feels a lot more composed when travelling over bumps, but there is still significant body roll through corners, also the steering can feel boring and lifeless to some.

On a positive note, the excellent panoramic like visibility and a commanding driving position make the Hyundai  very easy to get around in, while well thought out refinements help take the strain and stress out of longer journeys.

If you choose the top-spec 134bhp 4x4 2.0 CRDi the ix35 can become an effortless drive, having bags of overtaking ability in reserve – but the model maybe a little too expensive for some consumers. The 1.6-litre petrol engine is the least expensive but feels a little underpowered, which can make the 114bhp 1.7 CRDi engine a good compromise.

In realistic driving conditions, this Hyundai IX35 doesn’t have to be worked too hard to keep up with equivalent rivals from Mazda and Nissan, with a very efficient gear change system. To add to this, the Hyundai IX35’s diesel matches its rivals’ for smoothness, plus the manual gearbox is very clean and smooth to work with.

If you're in the market for a new 14 plate Hyundai IX35 call our sales office on 0161 946 3500 and we will happy to discuss the discounts and availability on your brand new 14 Plate vehicle deal.