Hyundai ix35 in depth

by edit@cnet.com.au (Derek Fung)

We take a look over, in and out of Hyundai’s small four-wheel drive, the ix35. When you’ve seen the photos, read more and watch the video in our ix35 review.

Of fluids<br />
The Tucson-replacing ix35 small four-wheel drive is the first car to sport Hyundai's new
Visual interest<br />
Big lights<br />
Projector-style headlights only, with no option for xenon lighting.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Engines and transmissions<br />
There are three engines available in the Australian ix35 range: 2- and 2.4-litre petrol motors, and a 2-litre turbo-diesel. A six-speed auto is the only transmission on most of the range.<br />
(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Bling<br />
Unfortunately, the Highlander and Elite models come with chrome grille that looks significantly worse on dark coloured cars.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Can't beat 'em?<br />
LED indicators in the wing mirrors are a must have on anything over, say, AU$30k.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Pea soup<br />
Front fog lights are standard on the Elite and Highlander models.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Of light and dark<br />
Roof rails and a panoramic sunroof come gratis on the Highlander.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Trapped<br />
Drive off and the ix35 will automatically lock the doors. </p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Fast lines<br />
Vertical load space is reduced by the sloping roof line and tailgate.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Big wheels<br />
The Highlander comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, making the ride rather firm.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
More than meets the eye<br />
The interior design is pleasant on the eye, but the faux metal highlights on the steering wheel feel cheap and will probably rub off in time.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Dead cow<br />
For full leather upholstery you'll need to opt for the top-of-the-range Highlander. After about 10,000km the driver's seat was beginning to look a bit sad and saggy.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
In times of trouble<br />
A full-size spare wheel resides underneath the boot floor.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Butt!<br />
Boot space is pretty good.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Take it lying down<br />
The rear seats split fold, but don't lie completely flat.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Blind stowage<br />
The rear cargo blind can be removed, and can be lain on the floor and affixed into moulded nooks in the boot wall (above).</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Stretch out<br />
There's plenty of leg room in the rear.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Shot through the heart<br />
The gun barrel instruments are pleasing on the eye.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
It's all over you<br />
The electric blue lighting is funky, but can be trying on the eyes.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Protection<br />
Fold-out flaps on the Elite and Highlander's visors provide extra sun protection. The front head rests are tilted too far forward to be comfortable.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Digital music<br />
All ix35s come fitted with auxiliary and USB ports. A auxiliary and USB connector for iPod/iPhone connectivity comes at extra cost though.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Exclusions<br />
Bluetooth hands-free and factory fit sat nav are notable for their absence. The former should be available in the ix35 from September onwards.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
From alpha to omega<br />
Most music navigation is conducted using the Tune dial, so scrolling through your music collection is both quick and easy.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Finger on the pulse<br />
Steering wheel audio controls are standard throughout the ix35 range.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Cruiser<br />
Also standard is cruise control. Thankfully, the dashboard lights let you know when the system is on and also when a speed has been set.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Off road<br />
Four-wheel drive ix35s come with hill descent control (middle button) that automatically moderates the car's speed as you steer the car down a hill. The normally part-time four-wheel drive system can be locked to 50/50 torque split when you're tackling the rough stuff.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Back it up<br />
The Highlander's reversing camera is displayed in the left corner of the rear-view mirror.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Thank you for smoking<br />
For smokers there's a cup-holder-friendly ashtray. Speaking of cup holders, there's eight of them in the ix35.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)
Zone of control<br />
Air-conditioning is standard, but Highlander owners get to enjoy multi-zone climate control too.</p>
	<p>(Credit: Derek Fung/CNET Australia)

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