GENEVA - Hyundai launch upgraded IX35 with new refinements to interior, and engines.

• Fastest ever-selling model in Europe gets greater refinement inside and out
• Powertrains improved
• FLEX STEER offers enhanced driving dynamic with three steering modes

The New ix35, an upgraded version of Hyundai’s second best-selling car in Europe, has made its debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.  The new model boasts a range of technological enhancements, making it an even more appealing proposition to European buyers. 

Since the original model’s sales launch in March 2010, ix35 has generated a high level of consumer demand.  It became the fastest-selling model in Hyundai’s European history, exceeding all of the company’s expectations.  To March 2013, Hyundai has sold more than 220,000 units of the C-segment SUV vehicle in Europe.

A new engine, efficiency upgrades to other powerplants and new equipment add further refinement, enhancing the driving experience. 

Efficiency gains

One of the most significant upgrades for the model will be the replacement of the 2,0-litre ‘Theta II’ gasoline engine with a new, super-efficient ‘Nu’ 2,0-litre GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine.  The new powerplant, developed in-house at Hyundai’s European R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, offers more power and torque, 166 ps and 205 Nm (20,9 kg/m) respectively, yet is Euro5-compliant.

Two strong engines benefit from the fitment of a new low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation (LP EGR) system, yielding significant efficiency gains across the range.

Added tech, better refinement

Buyers of New ix35 can now benefit from Hyundai’s FLEX STEER system, available on the C‑SUV model for the first time.  Three driving modes − normal, comfort and sport − allow the driver to vary the level of steering support and feedback to best suit the environment.

Further enhancements such as a heated steering wheel, front parking sensors and a trailer-towing safety function for the ESC (electronic stability control) allow customers a more refined driving experience.  The new optional 4.2-inch TFT Supervision Cluster displays a wide range of information to the driver in high-resolution clarity.

European buyers can also choose an upgraded audio and navigation system, paired with a larger 7-inch LCD centre console display.

For greater illumination when driving in the dark, Hyundai is offering optional Bi‑Xenon headlamps for the first time on this model, as well as uprated LED with daytime running lights as standard.

The more refined ix35 will also be presented with new alloy wheels.  17- and 18-inch alloy wheel designs are available, with the latter two offered in a metal grey finish.

Inside the cabin of New ix35, the seats and upper door trims are now finished in higher-quality materials, the dashboard air vents are ringed in chrome, the front cup holders are illuminated and the windscreen receives a shade band, completing the visual refreshment.

Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe, commented: “The introduction of the original ix35 was a hugely important moment for Hyundai in Europe.  It was the first car to receive Hyundai’s European design language, ‘fluidic sculpture’ and, along with its other attributes such as efficiency, value and great quality, ix35 has sold in large numbers across the region.  Last year, its popularity increased further, with 87,000 units sold, 15% more than in 2011.

“The improvements to the New ix35 will deliver real-world benefits and enhance the ownership experience for buyers in Europe.  Hyundai has worked really hard to attract new customers to the brand.  By delivering products that exceed their expectations − through improved efficiency, driving dynamics and refinement −Hyundai will continue to retain and win over new customers.”

The upgrades to New ix35 were designed and developed at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre (HME TC) in Rüsselsheim, Germany.  The model retains Hyundai’s ‘fluidic sculpture’ form language, introduced on production Hyundai cars in Europe, by the original ix35, which was launched at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

For European markets, New ix35 is manufactured at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech (HMMC), the company’s state-of-the-art European production facility in Nošovice, Czech Republic.  Every ix35 sold in Europe comes with Hyundai’s Five Year Triple Care.  This award-winning customer assurance package includes a five-year warranty with no mileage limit, five years of roadside assistance and five years of vehicle health checks.