There is no shortage of nice crossovers these days, but a decent one in the UK will set you back at least 20 grand. That is why Hyundai hopes they wing a big share of the market by offering the new i35 from just £16,995. As is the case with these Korean cars, they are packed with features.
On sale from September 1, the Hyundai ix35 Facelift has the same engine lineup as before – 1.6-litre GDi petrol and 1.7-litre and 2.0-litre CRDi engines – but the 1.7 unit now gets Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) as an option. There is also a six-speed automatic transmission available for the 2.0-litre 136PS 4WD model.
In terms of styling, the ix35, also known as Tucson, gets new LED Daytime running lights and LED positioning lights inspired by the Santa Fe, and that is about it. The grille is also slightly different, but sadly not for the better. They have been more busy underneath the car, uprating the chassis and suspension to improve ride comfort and handling.
As for the features, unsurprisingly the base 17 grand S model is well-equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, remote central locking with alarm, USB and AUX connections, air conditioning, glove compartment with cooling function, Trip Computer, Hillstart Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Brake Control.
If you spend £18,495 and get the Se trim level, you get access to 17-inch alloy wheels , Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, cruise control, front foglights, heated front and rear seats, LED taillights, rear parking sensors, auto dimming rearview mirror and leather steering wheel and gearknob. Still good value, but the NAv package – Navigation with TMC, rearview parking camera, upgraded seven-speaker sound system and ‘sharkfin’ antenna – costs another bag of sand.
Then we have the ix35 Premium and Premium Panorama – from £22,595 – which benefit from 18-inch alloys, Bi-Xenon headlights with self-levelling system, chrome door handles and headlamp washers come standard. Keyless entry, leather seats and privacy glass round-up the interior features. The Premium Panorama receives the addition of an electric tilt and slide panoramic sunroof as standard fit.
