New Hyundai ix35 Re-Imagines the Compact SUV
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SYDNEY – February 12, 2010: Inspired by the concept of an urban nomad, new ix35 is a sleek crossover with athletic proportions, featuring advanced weight-saving technology, eco-efficient power trains, class- leading safety equipment, and outstanding value for money.
Designed at Hyundai’s Design Centre Europe at Russelsheim in Germany, new ix35 symbolises the evolution of the brand’s exterior and interior design, through the introduction of ‘Fluidic Sculpture’, an architectural language which will be embodied in future models from Hyundai Motor Company.
New ix35 is available in three trim levels, Active, Elite and top of the range Highlander. With a wide choice of engines and transmissions plus a range of premium features including rear camera, panorama glass roof and full iPodŽ integration, new ix35 brings ‘designer’ style and luxury to the compact SUV segment.
Design
Design philosophy
Starting with a clean
slate, Hyundai’s development team moved away from the two-box
off-roader look in favour of a sleeker, more refined profile while
simultaneously achieving a roomier cabin, extra storage capacity and
excellent fuel economy.
‘Fluidic Sculpture’ symbolises the flow of water. Clearly contoured surfaces are delineated by defined, naturally graduating lines. A subtle yet powerful double ‘Z’ form emerges from the body. The concave sills have a wedge-shaped profile extending rearward, wrapping around into the rear bumper.
Exterior
Developed as an urban cruiser, ix35 is compact and
agile for life in the city, yet tough and versatile for out-of-town
travel.
The hexagonal grille previewed on the ‘ix-onic’ concept car moves into mass production on the ix35, a defining look which will serve to unify the family of future Hyundai products. The grille is body colour on the entry level Active model and finished with chrome highlights and complimented by chrome door handles on Elite and Highlander models. Swept back headlights, a lower air intake and heavily inclined A-pillar add to the sporting appearance, whilst prominent wheel arches impart a confident stance.
The rear quarter glass, swooping rear lamps, oversized bumper and sloping tailgate enhance the sporting look. The integrated rear spoiler further reduces fuel consumption.
All model variants are easily identified by their wheel designs – 17 inch alloy on Elite and 18 inch on Highlander – adding to the range’s individuality.
Interior
Inside ix35’s cabin, a definitive
‘X’ zone characterises the centre fascia with black and
metallic finishes throughout the interior. On ix35 Elite and Highlander
models, convenience and practicality are enhanced with the implementation
of the push button start function and proximity smart key allowing the car
to be opened at the touch of a button located on the front doors and
tailgate.
On all model variants, the four spoke steering wheel incorporates controls for management of audio and cruise control systems. All instruments and gauges are backlit in Hyundai's signature blue colour.
Acceleration is via a modern organ-type pedal designed to offer high levels of comfort and sensitivity, by allowing the entire foot to rest on the surface of the pedal at all times and under all rates of acceleration.
Active and Elite models come with air conditioning, whilst Highlander models are equipped with dual-zone climate control featuring a cluster ionizer that improves air quality in the cabin.
The Highlander’s panoramic glass roof maximises light ingress and adds to the sense of spaciousness. An adjustable roll blind can be fixed to ensure 100 percent light block whenever necessary. The front glass opens electrically, while rear passengers can enjoy panoramic vision through the fixed glass overhead.
Seating
Across the range, the driver’s seat offers
six-way electric adjustment plus electric lumbar support, allowing taller
drivers to find a comfortable driving position. Added seating conveniences
include second row armrest with dual cup holders and multiple seating
layout configurations.
Active models feature high quality cloth upholstery, Elite models are finished in a combination of leather and cloth and the top of the range Highlander features all-leather seating.
Storage
ix35 has 19 different storage options,
including
Inclusions such as a standard luggage screen cover provide privacy and security for valuables in the cargo area, while a luggage net (standard on Elite and Highlander models), secures loose items
