The Hyundai ix35 belongs to a sector of the market that can only be described as, well, overcrowded. Of course we are talking about SUVs or crossover SUV models with impressive practicality, style and equipment.

Stepping up against models like the Nissan Qashqai and Mazda CX-5, the ix35 has a plethora of different rivals to try and beat. The last full generation refresh of the ix35 was back in 2010, so it is fair to say that 

A mid-life facelift however in 2013 gave the model a few new tricks to fend of the competition, including a revised exterior look and a new 2.0-litre diesel engine.

But has the Hyundai ix35 still got what it takes to tackle the markets bestsellers. 

Performance

There are two petrol and two diesels to choose from in the ix35. These include a 1.6-litre petrol with 133bhp and a 1.7-litre turbodiesel producing 114bhp.

There is only one engine as far as we are concerned however and that is the 134bhp 2.0-litre diesel. The 134bhp 2.0-litre diesel unit is powerful and can complete the zero to 62mph sprint in under ten seconds. 

It also has loads of pull low down the gears which if you are planning on venturing onto uphill dirt tracks will serve you well. The six-speed gearbox specified with the 2.0-litre diesel is also incredibly slick. The 2.0-litre diesel is definitely the easiest engine to live withy when it comes to no-nonsense cruising.

Ride and Handling

Steering is responsive and there’s loads of grip on offer, making cornering rather entertaining.

The ix35 is not the best handling or most agile car in the class, but it’s no slouch. Steering is responsive and there’s loads of grip on offer, making cornering rather entertaining. When it comes it refinement, the smaller engines are noisy and there’s a fair bit of wind and road noise. The ride can be a little firm as well, especially noticeable over the likes of pot holes and speed bumps. The ix35 certainly isn’t as refined as some of its rivals. Some derivatives are not available in four-wheel drive, but we found this a little pointless. You are unlikely to venture into the rough stuff with the ix35 and the four-wheel drive system also numbs performance and fuel economy.

Interior and Equipment

The Hyundai ix35, also known as the Tucson in America, is heavily featured in the TV series The Walking Dead.

The quality of some of the materials in the cabin is questionable, but it is well designed. Again, Hyundai’s famous five-year warranty is included, which should be encouraging. Standard kit is quite generous on every ix35 as it includes alloy wheels, front/back electric windows, Bluetooth and air-con.  Moving up the trims brings desirable features like larger alloys, sat-nav, rear parking camera, bi-xenon headlights, leather seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The ix35 is very spacious, despite its small footprint, which is smaller than many hatchbacks. It boasts a big boot, with 591 litres, and plenty of room in the back. This means the ix35’s boot is considerably bigger than the Nissan Qashqai.

Cost

Price wise, the ix35 is ahead of the pack as it is cheaper than both the Nissan Qashqai and Mazda CX-5.

The most efficient option in the ix35 line-up is the 1.7-litre CRDi as it emits as low as 139g/km and returns an average of around 50mpg – in two-wheel drive format that is. This isn’t quite as efficient as some engines in the Qashqai range, but it is still fair.  Price wise, the ix35 is ahead of the pack as it is cheaper than both the Nissan Qashqai and Mazda CX-5. Its five-year warranty may also be a deal clincher.

Our Verdict

The ix35 isn’t the most exciting model when it comes to drive and style. But to be honest, it is unfair to be too critical of the ix35 as it is in need of a revamp and it will be getting one soon. Practicality is definitely a big selling point of the ix35, beating its competitors by a long shot. We can’t wait till the new model comes as it is already on the way to being a great model, there are just a few features it needs to iron out first.