Hyundai iX35 CRDi Diesel impresses

This becomes even more significant when it weighs in at a price that is lower by a whopping R70 000. This is the case with Hyundai’s iX35 1.7 CRDi Premium, slotting in below the current 2.0 litre derivative. The iX35 replaced the popular Tucson and was launched locally in 2010, and to keep it fresh the Korean giant gave it a face-lift last year.

Styling follows the company’s “fluidic sculpture” philosophy. Featuring a black grille with chrome surround, the chrome accent is echoed in the bumper-mounted fog lights trim rings. Colour-coded bumpers and door mirrors connect the sculptured flanks into the spoiler-capped rear tailgate. A set of 17-inch dark grey alloys carry 225/60/17 rubber, creating a more sporty appearance.

The iX35 1.7 CRDi may hit the street for a lot less money than the 2.0 litre but it certainly doesn’t cut corners on the specification list. Standard equipment features a height and reach adjustable, leather-covered steering wheel with satellite controls, air-conditioning, audio system with Bluetooth and USB and Aux imports, cruise control, powered windows, central locking and keyless entry, electro-chromatic rear view mirror, electrically adjustable side mirrors, central 4.3-inch display touchscreen and automatic headlights.

Settle into the cloth covered seats with leather accents and you are aware of the spacious cabin with copious storage and cup holders all round. The dashboard is well laid out and ergonomically good – the only criticism I have has to be the miniature touch screen. Selecting reverse gear, the screen displays the image from the rear camera – but it’s small and you tend to end up using the door mirrors, rather than trust the technology in this instance.

A comfortable and pleasing vehicle – whether commuting in town or trekking across the country. Picture: Supplied.

As a family vehicle the iX35 offers a very comfortable, smooth form of transport with good all-round visibility for all occupants. Luggage is accommodated in the 591 litre rear load area. Fold the rear seats and it pushes out to 1 436 litres.

The star of the show is the new turbocharged 1685cc power plant, developed entirely in-house and meeting the Euro 5 specification, which means a requirement of 50ppm diesel. Delivering 85kW at 4 000r/min and torque of 260Nm between 1 250 and 2 750 r/min, acceleration is claimed at 12.4 seconds to reach 100km/h and top speed claimed at 173km/h.

Fuel economy is claimed at 5.3 litres/100km, with 139g/km of emission. The Hyundai iX35 1.7 CRDi Premium comes with a 5 year/150 000km warranty with roadside assist, and a five-year/90 000km service plan.