adminThis car is ready to take you places. It loves the idea of going on safari or zipping through city streets . . . and it can do both with ease, stylishly and comfortably. In this instalment I want you to experience a compact CUV which is both bold and beautiful. If you are striking and dynamic with a serious dose of attitude like me . . . ha ha ha then chances are this could be your perfect match. I’m drooling over the Hyundai iX35.
The dynamic Hyundai iX35 combines beauty with efficiency, from it sleek exterior styling to the state-of-the-art drive trains. Breaking new ground in the Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) segment of the market, Hyundai iX35 is available in six variants. Of the six, four are powered by the sophisticated new Theta-II petrol engines in either 2.0 or 2.4 litre capacities, and two feature a 2.0 litre R-type turbo diesel.
Drive train options include four-wheel- drive versions of the R-type turbo diesel and 2.4 litre petrol engine, while the 2.0 litre petrol engine is matched to a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox. Luxurious features include a spacious interior, steering wheel mounted audio remote controls, a multimedia interface, full function driving computer and auto arming central locking.
All but the entry level model come with black leather upholstery, dual zone climate control, electric folding mirrors and cruise control with switch gear on the steering wheel. Inside the styling and functionality evidence is more of an CUV member with semi-command seating positions and 40/20/40 split rear seating which fold and a large tailgate allows access to the load area as in conventional CUV, hatchback or estate manner. Space in the front is first class even for tall passengers. The boot offers a very good amount of space and the rear seat backs lie at a slight angle when they are folded.
The equipment levels are good with all the usual must have “premium” brand items from automatic air-conditioning, ambient lighting, electrically operated windows and heated door mirrors, fast-thaw front windscreen, multi-function buttons in the steering wheel, multi-speaker sound system and a good security functions.
The great thing about CUV is just how well it drives on the road under most conditions. The drive grip in the dry or wet is immense. The suspension is firm and the ride can be manageable on poorer road surfaces. So looking at our ever deteriorating road, handling will not be a big issue in this vehicle.
Its perfect for the business executive to take a drive to work every day or for that stay at home mum who has to ferry the three kids to school every day. There is enough space to fit grocery shopping, and your team of nine- year-old hockey players and their kits after practice. There will still be enough room to swing by dad’s office and give him a ride if his classy Mercedes has gone in to major service.
Personally when driving this car I thought of my girlfriends and the road trips we take, space in the car is always an issue if you are an adventurer and if you are female. We always carry clothes which we may never wear so we take quite a number of bags. If you are like that then welcome to piece of mind . . . this CUV will carry half your closet with ease . . . ha ha ha.
Safety features include upgraded breaking with ABS and EBD. What we all love to know if fuel consumption looking at the fact that fuel here in Zimbabwe is on the rise. At US$1,50 you don’t want to be behaving and buying guzzlers like Americans who pay US$0,81 per litre in some states.
You need to be clever because it becomes unnecessarily expensive to move from point A B. In the Hyndai iX35, you are guaranteed maximum fuel efficiency and the ratings vary depending on which engine capacity variation you have chosen. Word of advice, this is not a speedster but a multi-purpose practical vehicle for day-to-day use.
It comes with a five-year/150 000km manufacturer’s warranty and a five-year/ 100 000km service plan. For more information on all that makes this vehicle a winner, please pop into the Hyundai showroom along Seke Road. The sales team will gladly assist with pricing and finance options.
Till next week, stay alive, keep warm and as always God bless you.
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Online Reporter