The Hyundai ix35 (facelift, produced 2013-2015) with the 2.0 CRDi engine producing 136 horsepower and paired with a six-speed manual transmission represented a significant offering in the compact SUV segment. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the ix35 lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-weather capability. This variant was particularly important for markets outside of North America, where diesel engines and all-wheel drive systems were highly sought after. The facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the original ix35, which was sold as the Tucson in some markets, enhancing its appeal against competitors like the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Volkswagen Tiguan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | ix35 |
| Generation | ix35 (Facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CRDi (136 Hp) 4×4 |
| 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 | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 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 | Manual 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 this ix35 variant is the Hyundai R-series 2.0-liter CRDi diesel engine, specifically the D4HA code. This engine utilizes a four-cylinder, inline configuration with a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head. It features a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, enhances power output and efficiency. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder contributes to improved breathing and overall engine performance. The engine’s 16.5:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, maximizing thermal efficiency. The six-speed manual transmission provides precise gear changes and allows the driver to fully utilize the engine’s torque band.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque offered a respectable level of performance for everyday driving. While not particularly sporty, the ix35 2.0 CRDi 4×4 provided adequate acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 10.7 seconds. The torque curve is relatively flat, meaning that usable power is available across a wide range of engine speeds, making it well-suited for overtaking and driving on hilly terrain. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control compared to the automatic options available on other ix35 trims. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable vehicle for inclement weather or light off-road use. Compared to the higher-output 177 hp version of the 2.0 CRDi, this variant felt less urgent in its acceleration, but offered improved fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CRDi 4×4 trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The ix35 utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. The all-wheel-drive system employed a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS system helped to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, enhancing safety and control. The steering was rack and pinion, providing reasonably precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai ix35 2.0 CRDi 4×4 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and that the interior materials were not as premium as those found in some competitors. Compared to the petrol-powered ix35 variants, the 2.0 CRDi offered significantly better fuel economy and torque. Against rivals like the Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai, the ix35 offered a competitive package with a strong warranty and a reputation for reliability.
Legacy
The Hyundai ix35 2.0 CRDi 4×4 has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The R-series diesel engine, while not without its potential issues (such as DPF clogging), is generally durable when properly maintained. Regular servicing, including oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for long-term reliability. Today, these vehicles represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient SUV with all-wheel-drive capability. The ix35 laid the groundwork for Hyundai’s continued success in the SUV segment, establishing the brand as a serious contender in the European and global markets.
