New Hyundai ix35: first test drive in Madrid

A few days ago we already gave you a preview that the Hyundai ix35 has just received an update affecting both its design and its equipment. The ix35 is one of the most successful cars on the market, something Hyundai knows perfectly well, and they have opted to introduce small changes to a car that sells very well.

In this way, the changes the Hyundai ix35 receives are few, but they improve a car that has been very well received and will surely continue to be successful on the market. This Korean SUV is manufactured in Europe -Czech Republic- and was presented in Frankfurt in 2009.

New design: subtle changes to keep up the fight in the market

As a curiosity, this is the first Hyundai car designed in Germany for European tastes. It seems the designers hit the mark and the design has been well received. New wheels are now fitted, new front headlights appear with the option of bi-xenon and LED daytime running lights.

The rear lights -depending on the version- will also feature LED technology. Finally, among the exterior changes is the new shark-fin radio antenna -also depending on the version- and the black exterior mouldings that enhance its SUV look.

Inside, it continues with a driver’s position with a cheerful design, new upholstery and improved materials, especially on the doors. New chrome trim and a colour instrument display can also be seen.

Inside, the most notable thing about the Hyundai ix35 is the space it offers, very comfortable for five adults to travel. The dashboard has many areas in hard plastic, but this does not detract from the fact that the fit and finish are correct and the overall perceived quality is good and in line with the segment.

New trim levels from 21,190 euros

There will be four trim levels for the new Hyundai ix35: Essence, Klass, Tecno and Style. As standard it already comes with front LED lights, tyre pressure sensor, front fog lights, air conditioning, 16-inch wheels or the radio with USB and Aux input -among other features-.

Prices start at 21,190 euros for the petrol and 24,240 euros for the diesel with 115 hp. However, a discount of Hyundai must be deducted from these prices -Plan PIVE 3.5 of Hyundai- with a discount of 2,000 euros and an additional 1,750 euros from the brand, that is, a total discount of 3,750 euros.

Behind the wheel of the Hyundai ix35 1.7 CRDI 115 hp Tecno

The mechanical range remains the same, in petrol there is a 1.6 GDI engine with 135 hp and in diesel the 1.7 CRDI in three power variants: 115, 136 and 184 hp. Although the offer does not change, new automatic gearboxes have been incorporated and the steering and suspension feel have been improved.

We were able to test an ix35 with 115 hp Tecno, a fully equipped trim level and more than enough for those who want a car with every kind of detail. The test route was a road through the Sierra de Madrid, and we clearly saw that the engine despite having 115 hp is more than enough for day-to-day driving and in almost any circumstance, we must not forget that it is 115 hp, but we can tackle an overtaking manoeuvre with relative ease or merge onto the motorway.

The car is clearly geared towards comfort, as this is its best feature. It enjoys good interior soundproofing, and the feel of its suspension is aimed at keeping occupants protected from the harshness of the asphalt. This also limits it when it comes to dynamism, because the dimensions of the car are noticeable and the suspension is somewhat soft.

We could give the fuel consumption figures, but considering the unit we tested had less than 2,000 km, they would be of little value as the car is not yet run in, and consumption is always higher and not very representative of reality.

In short, we find it an interesting car for its price, equipment and the space it offers. This 115 hp engine is ideal, not for those seeking sportiness, but as a car for everyday use. Like all Hyundai models, it has a 5-year warranty with no km limit and the brand also maintains the promotion of one month’s trial or 2,000 km, and if the car does not convince, the brand commits to refunding the money.

Photos | Test team / Hyundai