Hyundai ix35 (10 on) - Review

Two engines are available in the ix35 - one petrol and one diesel - with both delivering impressive power and good fuel economy. The 2.0 CRDi diesel is the most popular choice and it's easy to see why. It's a mightily impressive unit with a refined nature and plenty of low down pulling power, while noise levels are pleasantly low, especially at motorway cruising speeds. It delivers a maximum of 134bhp and there's no turbo lag when accelerating from low revs, helped by the slick six-speed manual gearbox. It's available with either two or four-wheel drive, but usefully, there's little difference in performance, emissions or economy between the two. The two-wheel drive returns an impressive 51mpg (in Style trim) while 0-62mph takes 9.4 seconds. If you opt for the four-wheel drive, economy is still 50mpg and 0-62mph takes only 0.8 seconds longer. The petrol engine is a 2.0-litre with 161bhp - only available in Style trim. It may lack the pulling power of the diesel, but it's quick enough nonetheless with a 0-62mph time of 10.4 seconds. It's smooth and refined too, even when revved hard, yet returns a very useful 38mpg. Unlike the diesel, it's only available as a two-wheel drive and has a five-speed gearbox.

It may look like a four-wheel drive, but the ix35 uses an advanced suspension system that you'd usually find on more expensive saloon and estate cars. The result is impressive handling with little body roll and a composed feel in corners. The ride is a little on the firm side but it's not rough and irons uneven surfaces well, especially in town where it soaks up potholes and speed humps with ease. ESP stability control is standard but for extra reassurance there's the choice of four-wheel drive with the CRDi engine. This is ideal if you regularly have to tackle slippery or boggy tracks, plus it's great in the snow. It delivers power to the front wheels in normal conditions (so not wasting fuel) but if a wheel loses grip, transfers some of the power to the rear wheels to maintain momentum. However, in trickier conditions, a button on the dash allows you to lock the 4WD system permanently. This works up to 25mph and splits power equally between the front and rear wheels. The steering is responsive and pretty direct but does lack a little in feel and can be too eager to self-centre.