Hyundai ix35: prices and specifications
3 generations Country of origin: South Korea
Hyundai ix35 is a crossover that replaced the Tucson model in the fall of 2009. To enhance its prestige, the car was given an alphanumeric index that clearly echoes the name of one of the Japanese luxury brands. This model was the first to feature the brand's new design and the first six-speed automatic transmission developed by the Korean company. In Ukraine, the ix35 was introduced in the spring of 2010.
History
Hyundai ix35 (in South Korea – Hyundai Tucson ix) is a compact crossover that replaced the first-generation Hyundai Tucson. The car is built on the same platform as the third-generation Kia Sportage.
The public debut of the ix35 took place on September 3, 2009, at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Production of the model began on January 3, 2010, at the Kia Motors Slovakia plant, and from July 3, 2011, at the Hyundai plant in Nosovice, Czech Republic.
Since the ix35 is the direct successor to the Tucson, their histories are closely linked.
The name "Tucson" was taken from a city in Arizona. In the language of the Pima tribe, it means "spring at the foot of the black mountain." Sales in Korea started a week after the European premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in January 2004.
The car's design is front-wheel drive with a rear axle that can be connected via a coupling. The coupling activates depending on road conditions and wheel traction. Off-road, the driver can forcibly lock the coupling, engaging permanent symmetrical all-wheel drive.
Ground clearance is 195 mm.
In Ukraine, the Tucson was offered with gasoline engines: a V6 DOHC 2.7 L (175 hp) and a 2.0 L (142 hp). Both engines were paired with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. A 2.0 CRDi turbodiesel was also available.
The front suspension is McPherson type, the rear is multi-link.
Safety is ensured by crumple zones, front and side airbags. Standard equipment included ABS, EBD, TCS, and TOD. The base version had a full power package and audio preparation.
The simplest trim included: climate control, radio, heated front seats and mirrors, roof rails, engine underbody protection, fog lights, power windows, alloy wheels.
Since 2007, a front-wheel drive version of the Tucson with a two-liter engine and manual transmission was also sold in Ukraine.
Additionally, the Tucson was assembled at the Bogdan Corporation plant in Cherkasy using the CKD method.
Exterior
The Hyundai ix35 looks better than its predecessor. Its appearance is in a unified style that has become characteristic of all Hyundai cars in recent years.
Clear lines, a dynamic silhouette, modern appearance. The new style brought the ix35 new fans, despite the price increase.
Interior
The interior design matches the exterior. All surfaces look solid, reliable, and durable. Ergonomics are exemplary: even upon first acquaintance with the car, only positive impressions remain.
All controls are conveniently located, and their operation algorithms are unified with other Korean or Japanese models. The interior is spacious and corresponds to the car's class.
The seats, in terms of volume and firmness, are close to European standards. A person of any build can comfortably sit both in the front,
and in the back.
Engine and Transmission
For Ukraine, a 2.0 DOHC gasoline engine with 163 hp and a 2.0 CRDi VGT diesel with 184 hp were offered. Both engines were paired with either a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic.
The car's sound insulation is at an average level. The engine and transmission are almost inaudible inside, but road noise, especially on cobblestones or gravel, is quite loud.
Safety
Safety is in order with the Hyundai ix35. It uses an energy-absorbing body made of high-strength steel, front and side airbags (in higher trims), and an ESP stabilization system with ABS.
The American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the ix35 the highest honor "Top Safety Pick."
Features
The handling of the ix35 is at a good level. During sharp maneuvers, despite noticeable body roll, the car follows the steering wheel precisely. On the highway, it confidently holds its trajectory both on straight sections and in long curves. On roads with truck ruts, the car does not "dive" and maintains its course. Otherwise, no particular features are observed during operation.
It is worth remembering that the ix35 is still a conditional SUV, and it is not advisable to drive it into serious mud. All-wheel drive will help on slippery or snowy roads, help get out of a snowdrift, or reach a dacha on a dirt road, but it is unlikely to handle quicksand or clay.
Popularity in Ukraine
This model is among the best-selling on the Ukrainian market.
According to the autoportal.ua rating, the ix35 is in the TOP-30. In its class, it consistently ranks in the top ten.
Our Verdict
Hyundai ix35 is one of the best offers in terms of price and quality. Hyundai has one of the most developed networks of dealerships and specialized service stations, and many spare parts are in stock. Fuel consumption is at an average level for the class, allowing the owner to save additionally and serving as another plus when choosing a car.
