FIRSTDRIVE - HYUNDAI iX35:If the price is right the iX35 could be a sure thing, writes
Michael McAleer, Motoring editor
THERE’S A CONFIDENCE about Hyundai these days. It’s not cockiness, and certainly not ignorance to the economy; the Koreans have a plan – and it seems to be working.
A major revamp of its model range, aimed at pushing firmly into the mainstream, against established brands like Ford, Toyota and Volkswagen has coincided with the economic downturn.
However, the brand remains strong and price competitive, and the end result is a massive upturn in markets where scrappage has come into play. Even in Germany, once impenetrable for Asian brands, Hyundai has seen sales soar. Extensions of such schemes and Toyota’s recent crisis will only consolidate its position. The end result? A 26 per cent increase in European sales last year.
In the US, a savvy marketing campaign offered owners the chance to return their car – and thereby clear debt – if they lost their job. It was a level of reassurance in a country racked with uncertainty. Last month, as the motoring industry descended on Detroit, the cover of Fortune magazine declared: “The toughest car company of them all – Hyundai is for real. Competitors hate them. Customers love them.”
For Europe, the latest offering is a Tucson replacement. Following the “i” naming policy for new models, its SUV range in future will carry the “iX” moniker. So the Tucson is replaced by this iX35 and the Santa Fe will – in coming years – give way to the iX45.
The good news is that the new model leaves the outgoing Tucson very much in the shade. The exterior styling is similar to the Ford Kuga, instead of the bulky frame of Peugeot’s 3008. Inside, the finish is positively premium, with a smart cabin that’s superior to all of its rivals in this class.
On the road, the 136bhp 2-litre diesel we drove had plenty of torque and, though there will be a more powerful 184bhp version, we had no problems with the car on a very challenging route up the side of a steep Italian mountain. It’s a really impressive package and a very positive symbol of where Hyundai is heading.
The key will be price, which has yet to be confirmed. It’s impossible to offer a concrete review without knowing its price. If it comes in at well under €30,000, it’s very tempting, even in an anti-SUV age.
Higher, and it will be pipped by rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and the Ford Kuga. The Kuga has a little more panache when it comes to handling and the ride quality is slightly better as well – though we’re working from memory and not a back-to-back test.
Nonetheless, the iX35 is a big leap. It is refined, composed, and an undisputed rival to the current leaders in the crossover segment.
The first model introduced will be the 136bhp version of the 2-litre diesel. By the end of the year, it will be joined by the 1.7 diesel.
To entice buyers, Hyundai Ireland says the introduction price on the 2-litre model will be set at 1.7-litre prices. Once the smaller engined diesel arrives, it’s likely that 2-litre prices will rise, so those considering the bigger engine are advised to buy this year.
Sales expectations are for up to 500 this year, rising to 1,000 as more engines are offered.
Factfile Hyundai iX35
2-LITRE DIESEL (136BHP)
Engine specification:1,995 CC – four-cylinder, 136bhp @ 4,000rpm, 320Nm @ 1,800rpm
L/100km (mpg):5.5 (51.4)
CO2 emissions:147g/km (road tax: €302)
1.7-LITRE (115BHP)
Engine specification:1,685 CC – four-cylinder, 115bhp @ 3,800rpm
L/100km (mpg):tbc
CO2 emissions:146g/km (road tax: €302) or 139g/km (road tax: €156) when sold with "intelligent stop go" system
Prices:expected to start below €30,000
Rivals:Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga, Peugeot 3008
Three for five
ITS SISTER brand may offer seven years, but Hyundai is taking a more cautious approach to its warranties. The iX35 – replacing the Tucson – will come with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, five years roadside assistance and five years vehicle healthcheck. It’s a bumper-to-bumper offer for the iX35 and is likely to herald a similar offer on all new models from the brand.