Hyundai releases upgraded ix35

Just weeks out from launching its all-new seven-seat Santa Fe, Hyundai has announced an upgraded ix35 compact SUV.

Hyundai’s refreshed small crossover, which so far this year has outsold all sub-$40,000 compact SUVs bar the Nissan Dualis – arrives with the same entry-level pricing, but extra standard features across the range, a new mid-range front-wheel drive variant and price increases at the top-end of the line-up.

In addition to the entry-level Active 2WD variant, which continues to open the ix35 range at $26,990 plus on-road costs in five-speed manual form ($28,990 for the six-speed auto), the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol powertrain now drives the front wheels of a new automatic Elite variant, priced at $32,590 plus ORCs.

Like the Active 2WD, the auto-only Elite 2WD is powered by Hyundai’s 2.0-litre ‘Theta II’ petrol four, which delivers 122kW at 6200rpm and 197Nm at 4600rpm, and in this case returns combined fuel consumption of 8.5L/100km.

All ix35 models now come standard with a new integrated five-inch touch-screen audio system comprising six speakers and tweeters as well as iPod/iPhone connectivity with audio streaming, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, an in-dash CD player, USB/AUX inputs and MP3 functionality with album art display and media ripping/storage.

Meantime, Elite variants – including the new 2.0 2WD – now come with automatic dual-zone climate-control, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror with compass, reversing camera and satellite navigation. Top-shelf Highlander variants also score Hyundai’s new integrated navigation system comprising 6.5-inch colour touch-screen, SUNA live traffic updates and Navteq maps with a three-year MapCare upgrade plan.

Price increases apply to the Elite AWD 2.4 petrol auto (was $32,490, now $34,990), the Elite AWD 2.0 diesel auto (was $35,490, now $37,590) and both Highlander AWD models – the 2.4 petrol auto (was $35,490, now $37,590) and the 2.0 diesel auto, which was $38,490 and now costs $39,990. Metallic/mica paint remains the only ix35 option, at $495.

Every ix35 is covered by Hyundai iCare program, which includes a five-year/unlimited-km warranty, free roadside assist for 12 months and capped-price servicing that costs $259 (2WD petrol models), $289 (AWD petrol models) or $399 (AWD CRDi diesel models) every year or 15,000km for three years.

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