The Hyundai ix35 (facelift, produced 2013-2015) 2.0 CRDi 4×4 represents a significant iteration of Hyundai’s popular compact SUV, aimed at the European and global markets. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the ix35 lineup, this variant combined a potent diesel engine with a capable four-wheel-drive system. It served as a competitor to vehicles like the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Volkswagen Tiguan, offering a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and available technology. The facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the original ix35, enhancing its appeal and competitiveness.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | ix35 |
| Generation | ix35 (Facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CRDi (184 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) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 194 km/h (120.55 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 392 Nm @ 1800-2500 rpm (289.12 lb.-ft.) |
| 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 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 the ix35 2.0 CRDi 4×4 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 valvetrain with four valves per cylinder further contributes to the engine’s efficiency and performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver control. The engine’s design prioritized low-end torque, making it well-suited for everyday driving and towing.
Driving Characteristics
The 184 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 2.0 CRDi engine provided the ix35 4×4 with respectable performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.3 seconds, and top speed was approximately 120 mph. While not a sports SUV, the engine offered sufficient power for overtaking and highway cruising. The manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection, and the 4×4 system provided enhanced traction in adverse weather conditions or on loose surfaces. Compared to the base 1.6L gasoline engine, the 2.0 CRDi offered significantly more power and torque, but at the expense of some refinement. The higher-output versions, while faster, didn’t offer the same level of fuel economy as this mid-range option.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The ix35 2.0 CRDi 4×4 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and parking sensors. Safety features like electronic stability control (ESC) and multiple airbags were standard across the range. The specific trim level determined the level of interior refinement and available technology.
Chassis & Braking
The ix35 utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The 4×4 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. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, making it a suitable choice for long journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai ix35 2.0 CRDi 4×4 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel-efficient engine. The 4×4 system was also noted as a valuable asset for drivers in regions with inclement weather. Compared to its competitors, the ix35 offered a competitive price point and a generous warranty. However, some critics noted that the interior materials weren’t as premium as those found in some rival vehicles. Fuel economy was a strong point, averaging around 39 mpg in combined driving, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious buyers.
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 is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is essential. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging and potential problems with the turbocharger. However, these issues are not uncommon in modern diesel engines. Today, the ix35 2.0 CRDi 4×4 represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient SUV with all-wheel drive. Its blend of affordability, reliability, and capability has ensured its continued popularity in the used car market.
