This is the updated 2013 European market Hyundai ix35 that was revealed today in advance of its world premiere at the Geneva Auto Salon next week, and which should preview some of the changes coming for its North American counterpart, the Tucson.
The mid-life cycle facelift comes three years after the launch of the compact model in Europe (four since its presentation in Korea), and it brings some mild cosmetic tweaks along with equipment and engine upgrades.
We only get to see the front end and the profile of the 2013 ix35, which sports new Bi-Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights, a re-trimmed front grille and new alloy wheels, while Hyundai tells us that the interior receives a new TFT Supervision cluster, and a “host of material upgrades to improve quality, along with some detail enhancements to trim”. Hyundai did not release any other photos of the ix35.
Under the hood, the European model gains an enhanced powertrain line-up, with a new European-developed gasoline engine, the ‘Nu’ 2.0-litre GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection), which Hyundai says offers more power while also being more fuel-efficient than the 161hp (163PS) ‘Theta-II’ 2.0-litre engine it replaces. Also, the brand’s ‘R’ diesel engine gains new clean technology features, such as the LP-EGR (low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation).
Finally, the 2013 ix35 gets Hyundai’s new FLEX STEER driving system that allows drivers to choose from Normal, Comfort and Sport modes.
PHOTO GALLERY
