Price-beating diesel boosts iX35 clan

The diesel Hyundai ix35 has a perky performance.

Like the current two oil-burners in the iX35 fleet, the latest addition is also turbo force-fed and although the newcomer produces considerably less punch - 85kW and 260Nm compared to 130kW/383Nm and 130kW/392Nm of the two more expensive diesels, it produces less emissions (139g/km) and is lighter on juice (6.5-litres/100km).

Attractions galore

Like the current range, which received a mid-life facelift earlier this year, the 1.7 Premium derivative is loaded with attractive features, particularly in the living quarters where furnishings include blue lighting, a fully adjustable steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, electric windows, doors that lock automatically at 15km/h, a trip computer, a premium audio system with six speakers, plus aircon and a wide scattering of storage mousey-holes and drinks holders.

Second row passengers can even tilt their cloth and leather seat backs for extra comfort.

Storage space and legroom are generous and second row passengers can even tilt their cloth and leather seat backs for extra comfort.

Safety first

Like the rest of the iX35 clan, the 1.7 carries a 5-star Euro NCAP rating and the safety list is long and extensive with features such as front, side and curtain airbags, ABS brakes with EBD, three-point safety belts at five seating positions, strengthened body with crumple zones and child seat anchors.

Storage space is generous.

I drove the Premium model on a circular route (including a stretch of gravel road) between Stellenbosch and Wellington and liked the surprisingly perky performance of the new 1.7 engine. The latest iX35 scoots out of the starting stalls quite energetically and although it is a tad off the pace of its two more powerful diesel siblings it doesn't feel lethargic at all. In fact, on a short stint under the whip there was no sign of it running out of breath even though we were already in the zone where a free ride in the back of a police vehicle becomes a distinct possibility.

Agile handling

The latest iX35 scoots out of the starting stalls quite energetically.

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Like the rest of the existing six-model range the new diesel feels settled on the road in a pleasantly firm manner, nicely balanced between performance and comfort. The six-speed manual shift (which has slightly different ratios than that of the other two diesels) is also a perfect match for the 1.7's power output and the cog-swopping process is quick and slick.

The new Premium variant also impresses with its agile handling. The steering is pleasantly weighted and its handles the corners with the gentlest of body leans. Even a howling south-easter couldn't unsettle the newcomer.

The living quarters are replete with a range of attractions.

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The iX35 range is a major money-spinner for Hyundai and the new addition ticks all the right boxes to keep the showroom sales staff smiling. It is made to appeal to rands and sense buyers who want environmentally friendly, frugal and fun transport that also provides a safe, comfortable and classy ride at an affordable price. Factor in a price-inclusive five-year/150 000km warranty, a five-year/90,000km service plan and five-year/150,000km roadside assistance then the price tag of R359,900 for the iX35 Premium package is difficult to match, let alone beat.

Hyundai ix35 1.7 CRDi Premium review - Arnold Clark