Hyundai has announced the availability of its larger 2.4-litre petrol engine for the ix35 Highlander AWD variant.
Until now Hyundai's top spec ix35 was available exclusively with the company's capable R Series turbodiesel engine, 2.0 and 2.4-litre petrol offerings reserved for elsewhere in the range. The 2.4-litre petrol engine was previously available in the mid spec ix35 Elite AWD.
The move takes the number of ix35 variants available to six. A move certain to bolster the model's success, which has already seen it become Australia's third best selling compact SUV.
"To date we have struggled to keep up with customer demand for the ix35, with the top of the range Highlander version accounting for almost half of all sales enquiries", said Hyundai Australia's Director of Marketing, Oliver Mann.
"The implementation of additional production capacity for European markets means we can increase ix35 supply -- and customers are demanding more ix35 Highlanders."
The lightweight Theta II 2.4-litre petrol engine offers a balance of power and economy developing 130kW/227Nm. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission the four-cylinder unit returns a fuel consumption figure of 9.2L/100km. CO2 emissions are just 219g/km.
All ix35 models are offered as standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Downhill Brake Control (DBC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).
Packing a comprehensive feature list, Highlander models add dusk-sensing headlights, rear-parking sensors, a rear-view camera system, panoramic glass sunroof, iPod integration, dual-zone climate control, six-way electric driver seat and push-button start function with proximity smart key.
Entry level ix35 Active 2WD models remain available with an economical 2.0-litre petrol engine.
The ix35 Highlander AWD 2.4-litre petrol models are in showrooms now.
2011 Hyundai ix35 pricing:
- ix35 Active 2.0-litre petrol 2WD $26,990 (man) / $28,990 (auto)
- ix35 Elite 2.4-litre petrol AWD $32,490 (auto only)
- ix35 Elite 2.0-litre diesel AWD $35,490 (auto only)
- ix35 Highlander 2.4-litre petrol AWD $35,490 (auto only)
- ix35 Highlander 2.0-litre diesel AWD $38,490 (auto only)
- Metallic Paint $375
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