This is Hyundai's answer to the Nissan Qashqai and the successor to the Tucson SUV. This time around Hyundai is aiming to have a much broader appeal and hence it will be available with front-wheel drive and with a low-emission 2.0-litre diesel engine - with a 1.7-litre diesel to follow in the New Year.

The ix35 certainly looks good - the new styling has a very European appearance to it and it is much more stylised than the model it replaces. Following the "i" naming policy for new models, Hyundai's SUV range in future will carry the "ix" moniker. So the Tucson is replaced by this ix35 and the Santa Fe will give way to the ix45.

Tuesday August 10

The exterior styling is quite similar to its Ford rival, the Kuga and looks less bulky than say, Peugeot's 3008. For now, the ix35 is powered by a 136hp 2.0-litre diesel, which, although vocal at times, is more than capable. The interior, for the most part, is good and is generously equipped. In here you will find things like air conditioning, Bluetooth functionality for your phone and music systems and there are also auxillary and USB interfaces too for mp3 players.

However, the steering wheel, gearstick and handbrake all feel plasticky and pretty cheap compared to what you get in a Kuga, 3008 or even Qashqai and this is a let down.

In terms of road manners, the ix35 is indeed very comfortable, really easy to see out of and therefore fine around town and a doddle to park. If you push it hard on a twisty road you will notice the ESP flash at you quite a lot as it punishes you for your insolence. This isn't a car that encourages you to be 'sporty' but then few in this class can really do it without grumbling; perhaps the 3008 is the best of these when it comes to a balance been ability and comfort.

Thursday August 12

Hyundai has secured a tempting introduction price for its new ix35 SUV. At €26,995, the 2.0-litre diesel version will offer a serious challenge to a growing number of crossover models. With an emissions level of 147g/km its annual motor tax is €302.

The new front-wheel drive model comes with six airbags, stability control, cruise control, 17-inch alloys, air conditioning and Hyundai's new five-year 'triple car plan'. This encompasses a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, five-year AA membership and five years' free health check. All new models launched from now on will feature the new plan, starting with the ix35.

This is a nice SUV and a viable alternative to the Qashqai both on its own merits and if you are sick of the sight of the Qashqai.

Hyundai ix35:

Engine: 1,998cc four-cylinder diesel

Maximum power: 136hp at 4,000rpm

Maximum torque: 320Nm at 1,800rpm

Acceleration (0-100km/h): 9.4 seconds

Max speed: 182km/h

Fuel economy (combined cycle): 5.5 l/100km

CO₂ emissions: 147g/km

Motor tax band: C

Annual road tax: €302

Retail price: €26,995