Hyundai ix35 unveiled

These are the first pictures of the all-new Hyundai ix35 SUV.

The car will be unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show next month, before it goes on sale next spring as a rival for the likes of the Ford Kuga, Nissan Qashqai and VW Tiguan.

'Fluidic sculpture'

The design of the ix35 closely resembles the ix-onic concept car. The bold front end, hexagonal grille and sharp bodywork creases are part of what Hyundai calls its new fluidic sculpture design language and you can expect a similar look for future Hyundai models.

The rear of the ix35 is likely to differ more from the ix-onic, because Hyundai has said that the high-tech materials used on the concept car aren't yet viable for production models.

Sportier image
The ix35 will replace the Tucson and its lower, sportier styling is aimed at providing a wider appeal.

Lower running costs are also expected, due to a range of new engines. New 2.0-litre diesel engines that use Hyundai's 'Idle Stop and Go' engine stop-start system will be available, along with a small-capacity petrol engine for entry-level models.

Front- and four-wheel-drive versions of the ix35 will be offered, with four-wheel-drive likely to available only on high-spec models. Most buyers are likely to choose cheaper two-wheel-drive versions.

Hyundai ix35 prices havent been confirmed, but we expect they will start at around 15,000.