Hyundai ix35 Series II 2014 Review

The Hyundai ix35 Series II has undergone a raft of upgrades – inside, outside and under the bonnet. While some fresh design details are always welcome, it’s the big-ticket changes to the power and handling of the ix35 that are likely to see the South Korean SUV gather more momentum in the Australian market.

Our test vehicle is the entry-level ix35 Series II Active and it has a starting price of $26,990 (plus on-road costs) when fitted with a six-speed manual transmission, but costs $2200 more when optioned with a six-speed automatic – like that of our test car.

The Active variant is offered in two-wheel drive format only, and is the only model to featurer both manual and automatic transmissions – each matched to a 2.0-litre direct-injected four-cylinder petrol engine.

Move to the Elite and Highlander variants and you get the choice of a larger 2.4-litre petrol or 2.0-litre diesel engines, each paired exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission. Higher spec models also gain all-wheel drive.

The ix35 Series II Active’s engine delivers 122kW and 205Nm, which feels like a good fit for this urban-oriented vehicle. Direct-injection is new to the ix35 line-up, replacing the multipoint method used on previous models.

The ix35 Series II has the jacked-up ride height, car-like handling, modern conveniences and ease of use that sees it appeal to a variety of buyers. Not the least, the ‘active’ young family.

In tune with its buyer, the entry-level Active packs a decent amount of kit as standard, including 17-inch steel wheels, cruise control and parking sensors, though disappointingly a reversing camera is not offered as standard.

The audio system includes six-speaker sound, USB and 3.5mm auxiliary inputs, Bluetooth telephony and audio streaming and a 5.0-inch touchscreen. Most facets of the system can be controlled from the multifunction steering wheel.

Inside, the ix35 Series provides an instant sense of comfort and familiarity. Excellent ergonomics and a well considered cabin design means overall comfort and ease of use are definite highpoints. In short, it’s a really sensible and usable space.

Cabin conveniences are well sorted, including multiple storage compartments that are easy to access and generous in size. The ix35 Series II is also very comfortable, and seemingly durable, with its variety of plastic finishes combining nicely for a good looking interior that should also take its share of family rough and tumble.

Second-row passengers are afforded similar comfort levels, but miss out on ventilation outlets. The middle seat also makes use a roof-mounted three-point belt which can impact on the cargo area.

On the road, the ix35 Series II shows a marked improvement over its predecessor, in both handling and overall dynamics.

Hyundai’s investment in a localised suspension tune has transformed the on-road manners of the ix35. It now presents as a confident SUV that is well-suited to the harshness of Australian roads with a ride that is firm, but forgiving, providing good turn-in and composed handling.

Power delivery through the six-speed transmission is strong – it revs happily and gear changes are well spaced to deliver a mostly obedient drive experience. Under hard acceleration on the go, however, it can be found hunting for gears, but not so much so that you’re left wondering.

The faster processor of the electric-assisted steering also feels great, providing a lovely sense of connection with the road, and a newfound sharpness at the wheel. The agility and front-end grip of the ix35 is to be commended. On demanding corners, it never skipped a beat. And around town, it’s easy and suitably engaging.

Forward and lateral visibility is good in the ix35, but the small rear quarter windows do hinder the over-shoulder view when changing lanes, or reversing from the driveway. Disappointingly, there was also a little bit of wind and road noise evident in the cabin.

The ix35 packs a generous 465 litres of load space, coupled with 60:40 split seating configuration for good load flexibility.

Hyundai says the ix35 Series II Active will consume 8.4L/100km on the ADR Combined cycle, and on test, we managed an impressive 8.6L.

The Hyundai ix35 Series II gains a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, featuring anti-lock beakes with electronic brake-force distribution, stability control, downhill brake control, hill-start assist, dual front and side airbags, curtain airbags, seatbelt reminders for both front seats, and three-point belts for all occupants.

One area where the ix35 Series II certainly does trump the competition, is its five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and capped-price servicing. Several segment rivals, such as the Mazda CX-5 fall short in this regard.

All of this goes to strengthen the value proposition of the already popular Hyundai ix35 – and no doubt its clout in the small and medium SUV segment in Australia.

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