2013 Hyundai ix35 is a freshened-up Euro-Tucson

Wed, 06 Mar 2013

In places that aren't the United States, Hyundai calls its Tucson compact crossover the ix35. And as part of its Geneva Motor Show presence, the Korean automaker has debuted this freshened version of the C-segment CUV, showing some minor tweaks to an otherwise attractive package.

The most noticeable changes are found up front, where a revised grille slots in between newly designed headlamps that now feature LED running lights. Around back, the taillamps have also been given the nip/tuck treatment, and it appears some redesigned wheels have been included in this update, as well.

Hyundai has fitted its ix35 with a new, direct-injected version of its 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine (with undisclosed power figures, natch). And when it comes time to put that power to the road, driver's will be able to use a new selectable electric power steering system similar to what's on the Elantra GT and Santa Fe Sport, with normal, comfort and sport modes.

We have yet to receive official word about when the US-spec Tucson will receive these changes, but we don't expect them to be too far off. Scroll down for the full press blast with all the goods.

Hyundai reveals New ix35 ahead of Geneva debut

- New ix35 brings upgrades to Hyundai's C-segment SUV offering
- Powertrains improved and automatic option for diesel version added
- New ix35 designed, developed and manufactured in Europe, for Europe

Hyundai has released the first image of the New ix35, ahead of its world premiere at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The new model will take the stage three years after the launch of the original ix35 C-segment SUV, and features a wide range of technological and efficiency enhancements.

New ix35 – a true 'made for Europe' model – receives an enhanced powertrain line-up, including a new European-developed gasoline engine, the 'Nu' 2,0-litre GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection), that offers more power yet greater economy than the 'Theta-II' 2,0-litre engine it replaces. The 'R' diesel engine receives clean technology, such as LP-EGR (low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation).

To further improve the European-tuned ride and handling characteristics, New ix35 benefits from Hyundai's three-mode FLEX STEER driving system. Drivers can choose from Normal, Comfort and Sport modes to tailor levels of feedback and the overall driving experience.

Bi-Xenon headlamps and a TFT Supervision cluster offer greater clarity to the driver, while the interior receives a host of material upgrades to improve quality, along with some detail enhancements to trim.

Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe, Allan Rushforth, commented, "The New ix35 is an important model for Hyundai in Europe. With the original car being so popular across the region, it was important for us to ensure that the upgrades would maintain this popularity. The styling, dynamic and technical upgrades to the New ix35 ensure that the car retains the character which has made it such a success whilst offering customers an even more emotive purchase choice.

"The ix35 was an important model for Hyundai. With eye-catching fluidic sculpture form and European quality, it helped change perceptions of the Hyundai range in the region. New ix35, with its enhanced powertrain line-up, interior refinements and sharper styling will appeal to a broad range of buyers in Europe."

The ix35 became the fastest-selling model in the brand's European history and remains hugely popular with buyers – selling more than 87.000 units in 2012. It was the first model to present Hyundai's 'fluidic sculpture' form language and retains the now-familiar styling, including the company's trademark hexagonal front grille. The model was designed and developed at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and produced at the brand's production facility in Nošovice, Czech Republic.

By Steven J. Ewing