Hyundai ix35 Series II 2013 Review

Hyundai ix35 Series II Active, SE, Elite and Highlander

What we liked:
>> Improved ride-handling compromise
>> Improved throttle modulation
>> Improved steering response

OVERVIEW

The suspension changes mean the ix35 finally feels more at home on local roads, the same which previously challenged the small SUV’s unforgiving ride.

The new direct-injected petrol engines are now the same which will be found in its twin-under-the-skin Kia Sportage from January production. Two four-cylinder petrols are offered, displacing 2.0 and 2.4 litres, while the carry-over 2.0-litre turbo-diesel remains available on all but the base grade variant.

The ix35 Series II is available in four trim grades, Active, SE, Elite and Highlander, with the choice of manual and automatic transmissions, and in two and all-wheel drive format, depending on grade.

PRICE AND EQUIPMENT

Hyundai seems to appreciate the ix35’s position in this regard, and has priced the range from a competitive $26,990 (plus on-road costs).

That’s the list price for the entry-spec ix35 Active. The model is offered in two-wheel drive format only with a 2.0-litre petrol engine. It is available with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, the latter attracting a $2200 premium.

Active models feature as standard 17-inch steel wheels (with a full-size matching spare), rear parking sensors, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, cruise control, a trip computer, manual air-conditioning and cloth upholstery.

The six-speaker infotainment system includes USB and 3.5mm auxiliary audio inputs, Bluetooth telephony and audio streaming, a 5.0-inch touchscreen display, a single-CD/tuner and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

On the next rung is the value favourite of the range, the ix35 SE (from $30,990 plus ORCs). This model is offered with 2.0-litre petrol and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel. Both are mated to an automatic transmission with the petrol model being 2WD and the diesel model AWD.

In addition to those features listed for the Active grade, the SE adds 17-inch alloy wheels, leather/leatherette combination upholstery, front seat heaters, a reversing camera, front foglights and rear privacy glass.

Stepping up to the mid-range Elite (from $33,090 plus ORCs) and we find a selection of three engines available (two petrol and one turbo-diesel), the choice of two and all-wheel drive, and a standard automatic transmission (see chart below for full pricing details).

In addition to or instead of those features listed for the SE model, we find dusk-sensing headlights, a rear-view camera, front foglights, an electrochromatic rear-view mirror, illuminated glovebox and vanity mirrors, proximity key with push-button start and leatherette/cloth combination upholstery.

Elite models also add a 7.0-inch touchscreen display to the audio package, as well as DVD playback.

Finally, top-grade Highlander variants (from $38,090 plus ORCs) are offered with a choice of 2.4-litre petrol and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engines, but are fitted exclusively with the combination of all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission.

In addition to those features listed for the Elite, Highlander variants add 18-inch alloy wheels, a two-piece panorama glass sunroof, electric folding side mirrors, heated front seats, privacy glass, and leather/leatherette combination upholstery.

MECHANICAL

The more modern fuel delivery system allows precise fuel control which in turn delivers better throttle response and improved fuel economy. It has also elicited a nifty increase in engine torque from both engines.

For ix35 Active and SE models, fitted with the 2.0-litre ‘Nu’ petrol engine, power output remains unchanged at 122kW while torque increases to 205Nm (up 8Nm). The two-wheel drive (2WD) only variant is available with a choice of six-speed manual (on Active variants only, and previously a five-speed) or six-speed automatic transmission.

Combined cycle fuel economy figures are listed at 8.2L/100km for the manual variant and 8.4L/100km for the automatic, while CO2 emissions are listed at 197 and 200g/km respectively.

ix35 Elite and Highlander variants are available with the choice of a 2.4-litre petrol or a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder. Each is offered exclusively in conjunction with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD). SE variants are also available with the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel.

The 2.4-litre ‘Theta II’ petrol engine now delivers 136kW (up 6kW) and 240Nm (up 13Nm) with more mid-range poke than before. On the combined cycle, Elite and Highlander variants are quoted as consuming 9.8L/100km while emitting 233g/km of CO2.

The ‘R-series’ diesel variant continue essentially unchanged. Output remains identical at 135kW and 392Nm, though fuel economy sharpens to 7.2L/100km. CO2 emissions are listed at 189g/km.

As well as upgrades to the engines, Hyundai has invested significant efforts in tuning the MacPherson strut (front) / multi-link (rear) suspension to better suit local roads.

Major suspension components, including the coil springs and front and rear stabiliser bars, have been uprated, while the front subframe mount has been adapted to a more flexible bush-type system which Hyundai says better isolates impact vibration and harshness.

The electrically-assisted power steering system has also been fettled with a quicker ratio and faster 32-bit processor. As a result of the former, the number of turns lock-to-lock have fallen from 2.99 to 2.83, with a turning circle of 10.6 metres. The steering column is adjustable for tilt and reach.

ix35 variants continue to be halted by four-wheel disc brakes measuring 300mm up front on all variants, 284mm at the rear on Elite, Highlander and SE diesel models, and 262mm at the rear on Active and SE petrol variants.

PACKAGING

Otherwise, the model is familiar to the one which has been on sale here since February 2010 and retains the ungainly roof-mounted centre rear seatbelt of the predecessor. It also fails to offer rear seat ventilation outlets.

Further details of the ix35's packaging can be found here.

SAFETY

Top-tether child-seat anchor points are fitted in all three rear seating positions while the outboard seats are additionally equipped with ISOFIX preparation.

All seating positions receive headrests and three-point seatbelts.

ON THE ROAD

On road and off the ix35 proved confident in its handling. Even over challenging washboard sections of gravel road the vehicle’s composure was steadfast, calming the body quickly and soaking up high frequency corrugations with minimal disruption to cabin comfort.

It’s reassuring to note that in addition to feeling more comfortable, the changes have also sharpened the SUV’s abilities. It steers well when challenged and is not easily distracted by sudden changes in road surfaces, such as dramatic camber irregularities or nasty potholes.

The steering itself is improved. It is more linear in its weighting and is also less prone to bump steer. The ix35 turns in with a pace appropriate to its dimensions, feeling as confident as most small hatches through winding sections of country backroad.

Sampling all three engine variants in conjunction with the six-speed automatic transmission, it was impressive to find that the mid-range response of the trio is significantly improved. In-gear acceleration is a particular highlight, with better throttle response aiding in overtaking and acceleration from corners.

The 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre petrol and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel models were each driven on a course taking in town and country roads with an extended gravel detour. As expected the 17-inch wheel/tyre combination proved quieter than the 18s, while also feeling more relaxed when road conditions worsened.

Hyundai says it has achieved a half-decibel improvement in road noise, or approximately 3.5 per cent.

Fuel economy for the trio saw the 2.0-litre fair worse than its siblings. The smaller engine had to work harder, involving the transmission’s lower gears more frequently when traversing hills and exiting corners. On test, it managed 10.5L/100km against 9.2L/100km for the 2.4-litre petrol and 7.8L/100km for the 2.0-litre oiler.

From a value viewpoint, and if kit-for-coin is a priority, we’d side with the ix35 SE as the best here, though without the option of the 2.4-litre petrol in this grade, some might be better advised to buy the Elite. The mid-grade model offers nearly the same level of equipment as the Highlander variant, drives just as well, and is easier on the hip pocket.

Personally, and if money is not an issue, I’d opt for the turbo-diesel. It’s more driveable at lower speeds, is impressive when overtaking and consumes considerably less fuel.

The engine is also more flexible across a greater range of scenarios and doesn't have to be worked as hard to achieve its results.

Hyundai’s sales of the ix35 didn’t really need a nudge along from changes to the model’s dynamism, but those living with the model on country roads (around 28 per cent of you says Hyundai) will be glad for them. Year-to-date, the ix35 has sold 15,860 examples locally, a year-on-year increase of 66.4 per cent and a segment share of 28.1 per cent.

In short, the ix35 Series II is a good car made even better, and we think now as good as the best in the segment.

We’ll look forward to comparing the revised model back-to-back with its immediate rivals in the not too distant future.

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