Hyundai iX35 will rattle the cages

Power comes from a sophisticated new Theta-II petrol engine in either 2,0-litre or 2,4-litre capacities, or a potent new R2,0-litre CRDI turbo diesel.

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However, to do that would have been an in justice to this impressive little newcomer which is going to severely shake the ages of all its competitors.

Already industry players are predicting sales of about 400 a month for the iX35 and that's quite a jump, seeing that the popular Hyundai Tucson, which the iX35 is replacing, has been galloping along strongly with sales of around 170 units a month.

What is going to cheese off Hyundai's opponents no end is the across-the-range prices of the iX35 which, at the lower end, beat competitors such as Nissan's evergreen X-Trail by a substantial R37 000 and at the flagship level give the finger to BMW by more than R100 000.

Six derivatives

The iX35 is one of Hyundai's most important newcomers and marketing director Stanley Anderson says: "We are confident it will do the same in the compact lifestyle vehicle segment as the i10, i20 and i30 hatchbacks have done in their segments."

The range of new models consist of six derivatives, four of which are powered by a sophisticated new Theta-II petrol engine in either 2,0-litre or 2,4-litre capacities, with the remaining two featuring a potent new R2,0-litre CRDI turbo diesel.

The diesel models require the purer, low sulphide diesel which is not freely available in South Africa and cannot be found anywhere in Mozambique, Botswana or Namibia.

Drive train options include four-wheel-drive versions of the R Type turbo diesel and 2,4 petrol (with six-speed automatic transmission), while the 2,0-litre petrols are mated to a five-speed manual or the six-speed automatic driving the front wheels.

The R Type turbo diesel is also available with the 4x2 Drive train and a six-speed manual gearbox combination. Apart from the entry-level 2,0-litre petrol, all versions are specced in luxurious GLS trim while the range-topper gets even more comfort and convenience items.

It's all done with mirrors

All models boast with steering wheel-mounted audio remote controls, multimedia interface, reversing camera integral with the rearview mirror, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob, full-function driving computer, alloy wheels, 60:40 split rear seat, auto-arming central locking and electric windows all round.

All but the entry-level model are equipped with black leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, electric folding mirrors and cruise control with switchgear on the steering wheel.

Prices start at R239 900 for the 2,0-litre GL 4x2 5-speed, with the flagship R2.0 CRDi 4x4 GLS Automatic priced at R369 900.

Hopefully, you can say "Goodbye" to to that ominous crunch as you don't back into the tree behind you.

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All of South Africa's iX35s are manufactured at the Hyundai Ulsan plant in South Korea. "We think both the perceived and actual quality will speak for itself as the iX35 represents not only a massive step forward for Hyundai but also for this class of vehicle. We believe it can stand up to the closest scrutiny and intense comparison with those brands which are traditionally considered premium-level," says Anderson.

And after driving a selection of the new models I reckon this little beaut is probably the best Hyundai ever to have graced local soil.

Across the range the ride quality and finish is top notch. The design is eye-catching, the cabin is spacious and the luggage compartment is as generous as it is easily accessible.

Korea's very own Suzy Right

The launch took place in Limpopo where we over-nighted at the Legend Golf and Safari Resort nestling in the shadow of the towering Hangklip Mountain. Our drives included some rough and muddy terrain, twisty, narrow game trails in the nearby Entabeni Game Park and a long black top haul from there down to OR Tambo airport.

With the exception of the base 2,0-litre petrol all models are equipped with black leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, electric folding mirrors and cruise control with switchgear on the steering wheel.

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Besides its extremely competitive pricing and market-leading warranty and service plan, there is a heck of a lot more to like about this cool Korean newcomer.

Its stylish design, range of colours and classy interior decorations will certainly appeal to a younger market in the same way that the practicality, price and ride comfort will attract families and sporty outdoor types.

Some of the criticisms levelled at the Tucson were that its boxy design, smallish wheels and stark cabin finish were all rather Plain Jane, but this certainly is not the case with its replacement; the iX35 is Sexy Sue all the way.

Cheeky little devil

It all starts with what in Hyundai-speak is termed "a new fluidic design" with sweeping, gently curved lines, sloping rear glass and a cocky spoiler which make the iX35 look like a real cheeky devil.

The iX35 is as much of a smooth city slicker as a sure-footed dirt tracker and thanks to its front and rear fog lights and roof rails it certainly looks the part.

Being a bunch of Seffrikens we appreciated the acres of leg space up front and in the back.

The two 4x4 models come with electrically-adjusted driver’s seat with lumbar support and the diesel flagship model also has dual panoramic sunroofs.

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Cabin highlights include a sporty four-spoke steering wheel and instruments and gauges backlit in Hyundai's signature blue (although in harsh sunlight this makes them difficult to read).

The dual automatic climate control works like a bomb, particularly on chilly Limpopo mornings, but the sound system was bit disappointing. The hooter is a bit twee and sounds like a miniature dachshund barking in a Woolworths shopping bag.

With the exception of the base 2,0-litre petrol all models are equipped with black leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, electric folding mirrors and cruise control with switchgear on the steering wheel.

The two 4x4 models come with electrically-adjusted driver's seat with lumbar support and the diesel flagship model also has dual panoramic sunroofs, push button start with smart-key proximity sensor and a better sound system.

Not quite on the smell of an oil rag, but not bad at all

On the long haul back to Jozi I drove the snazzy diesel which, even at a high rate of knots seemed to sip fuel. Our colleagues in the petrol models were not as impressed as they slow-pedalled back with one eye on the fuel gauge. There were also mutters about the auto models lacking a bit of oomph in the energy-sapping thin air of the Reef.

The dual automatic climate control works like a bomb, particularly on chilly Limpopo mornings, but the sound system was bit disappointing.

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Talking about fuel; this is one area that will disappoint potential buyers. The diesel models require the purer, low sulphide diesel which is not freely available in South Africa and cannot be found anywhere in Mozambique, Botswana or Namibia.

The use of low-class diesel which South African motorists have to live with will result in reduced performance, big puffs of smoke and higher consumption and will damage the engine if used for more than 1 000km. All buyers will be required to sign a document to acknowledge this.

But, in spite of the diesel hassles, my choice would undoubtedly be the 2,0-litre CRD with its punchy 130 kW/ 392 Nm engine. This is the newest member of Hyundai's 'R' diesel engine family and benefits from the third generation common rail system developed by Bosch.

No more turbo lag

The best feature of this engine is an electronically-controlled variable geometry turbocharger and an advanced engine control unit which does away with irritating turbo lag. Tap on the accelerator and it's off the mark instantly.

When mated to the six-speed manual gearbox, the iX35 R Type CRDi requires just 6.4 litres of 50 ppm diesel per 100 km while emitting a mere 170 grams of CO2.

In the case of the two 4x4 models, torque distribution front to rear takes place automatically thanks to a viscous coupling integral with the rear differential. In addition, drivers can lock the drive train via a dashboard button for a 50:50 front/rear torque distribution.

As part of the Electronic Stability Programme fitted to these models, hill descent control system limits speed to a walking pace for enhanced safety in off-road situations while hill start assist also uses electronic control of the braking system to ensure slip-free pullaways.

All iX35s, with the exception of the dual-airbag base model, have six airbags.

Price and ride comfort will attract families and sporty outdoor types.

All models (once again with the exception of the cheapest one) have three-point inertia reel belts throughout. Pre-tensioners with load limiters are also fitted to the front belts.

Active headrests, designed to maximize neck and head support in the event of rear-end collision, hazard signals which activate in emergency braking, high level brake lights and anti-submarining seats are all standard safety features.

The stopping department is armed with ABS with (EBD) electronic brake force distribution.

All 4x4 versions are fitted with an Electronic Stability Programme, which uses a mixture of selective braking and engine torque reduction to ensure safe and sure progress over rough terrain.

Below are the prices of the models, warranties and details of service plans, followed by detailed comparisons of how the iX35 stacks up against other main players.

Retail Prices

All models come with a five-year/150 000km manufacturer's warranty, a five-year/150 000km roadside assistance, a five-year/150 000km rust warranty and a five-year/100 000km service plan.

Service Intervals are 15 000km across the range.

Specifications

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Price and specification comparisons