Hyundai iX35 spied

Maker's all-new 4x4 looks set to thrill on and off-road.

Auto Express Car Reviews

Text: Alex Goy / Photos: Automedia

30th June 2009

could this be Hyundai’s best 4x4 by far?

The firm has been caught testing the production version of the HED-6 concept, which was first revealed at Geneva.

Called the iX35, the Land Rover Freelander rival replaces the popular Tucson SUV and will be powered by a new 1.6-litre turbo producing 175bhp.

A permanent all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed automatic gearbox will ensure the iX35 gets moving.

Hyundai is also set to release a new diesel unit – the R-Diesel claimed to offer 184bhp and 400nm torque.

It will also use Hyundai/Kia’s new ISG stop/start system. This would put it in competition with Renault’s Koleos SUV, which is also set to get a stop/start system next year.

Insiders have commented that the design has earned the car a nickname: Urban Nomad. Inspired by cities such as Paris, Berlin and London it’s claimed to offer the peak of urban crossover design.

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