The Hyundai ix35 (facelift, produced 2013-2015) 2.0 CRDi 4×4 Automatic represented a significant offering in the compact SUV segment, particularly in European and Asian markets. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the ix35 lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency, all-weather capability, and comfortable convenience with its automatic transmission. This variant built upon the success of the initial ix35 (launched in 2009), which was Hyundai’s first foray into a dedicated compact SUV, replacing the Tucson. The 2013 facelift brought revised styling, improved interior materials, and refinements to the powertrain for enhanced refinement and efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | ix35 |
| Generation | ix35 (Facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CRDi (136 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1800-2500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1800-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R II / D4HA |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1525 kg (3362.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 615 kg (1355.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 591 l (20.87 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1436 l (50.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4410 mm (173.62 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Height | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1591 mm (62.64 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1592 mm (62.68 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.58 m (34.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/60 R17; 225/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 6.5J x18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the ix35 2.0 CRDi Automatic is the Hyundai R-series diesel engine, specifically the D4HA variant. This is a four-cylinder, inline engine displacing 1995cc. It utilizes a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler, enhancing both power and torque across a broad RPM range. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder further contributes to efficient engine breathing. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 2500 rpm. This torque output is a key characteristic of modern diesel engines, providing strong pulling power for everyday driving and towing. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth shifts and optimized fuel economy. This transmission isn’t known for being particularly sporty, prioritizing comfort and ease of use over rapid gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 CRDi Automatic ix35 offers a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission, while not the quickest shifting, provides seamless gear changes, making it ideal for urban commuting and long highway journeys. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.5-12.1 seconds, which is adequate but not particularly brisk. The strong low-end torque of the diesel engine makes overtaking at highway speeds relatively effortless. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable vehicle for all-weather driving. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness and fuel economy. Higher-output versions of the ix35, such as those with more powerful diesel engines or the gasoline engines, offer significantly quicker acceleration, but at the expense of fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CRDi 4×4 Automatic trim typically included a good level of standard equipment. This generally included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system with USB connectivity, alloy wheels, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, and parking sensors. The interior design was functional and well-built, with a focus on practicality. The facelifted model benefited from improved interior materials and a more modern dashboard layout compared to the original ix35.
Chassis & Braking
The ix35 utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing stability and traction. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking control in emergency situations. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai ix35 2.0 CRDi 4×4 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong diesel engine. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times and that the handling wasn’t as sharp as some of its competitors. Compared to rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage, the ix35 offered a competitive package with a strong warranty and a good value proposition. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 41.3 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Legacy
The Hyundai ix35 2.0 CRDi 4×4 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The R-series diesel engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance, including DPF regeneration, is crucial. The automatic transmission, while not the most sophisticated, has generally held up well over time. Today, these vehicles can be found at affordable prices, making them a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a comfortable and capable compact SUV. The ix35 paved the way for Hyundai’s continued success in the SUV segment, and its blend of practicality, value, and reliability has cemented its place as a popular choice among used car buyers.
