Model tested: Hyundai ix35 2.0 CRDI Premium
Price: £20,745
Date tested: June 2010
Road tester: Andy Goodwin

Auto Trader Ten Point Test rating: 83%

Built to offer the low costs and easy ownership of a hatchback, with the looks, space and safety of an SUV, the Hyundai ix35 does more than just replace the Hyundai Tucson.

1. Looks: 9/10
The Hyundai ix35 ushers in a new 'fluidic sculpture' design language for Hyundai, so we can look forward to more of these sharp and flowing lines. The ix35 looks sporty thanks to its double grille and aggressive headlights.

2. Looks inside: 8/10
This may be a budget SUV, but you wouldn't know it from the inside. Fit and finish is excellent and there are some nice design touches. The front seats are comfortable, but they could do with some extra lateral support.

3. Practicality: 8/10
There are two- and four-wheel drive versions, the latter sending power to all wheels only when needed. A 591-litre boot gives plenty of space; this increases to 1,436 with the rear seats folded down.

4. Ride and Handling: 7/10
The ix35 is sharp to drive and body roll is kept in check. There's plenty of grip too, but the ride is firm. The only fly in the ointment is the vague steering.

5. Performance 7/10
At launch there's just one diesel and petrol engine, both 2-litre units. We tested the diesel, with a 0-62mph of 10.2 seconds (9.4 for the front-wheel drive version), which is quicker and more economical than the petrol. It was a little unrefined in low gears when cold, but at higher speeds the engine is quiet. Impressive in-gear shove gives it a real turn of speed, and you'll rarely want for any more power.

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6. Running Costs: 8/10
The ix35 represents incredible value for money, priced at £16,495-£20,745. However, Hyundai's claims 49.6mpg is possible in the 2-litre CRDI; we managed under 40mpg. Emissions of 149g/km make this a cheap SUV to tax; the petrol ix35 returns 37.7mpg and emits 177g/km of CO2.

7. Reliability: 8/10
The engines are borrowed from the Santa Fe, so expect superb reliability. The standard five-year warranty and 10-year corrosion warranty should safeguard against most problems.

8. Safety: 9/10
The ix35 hasn't been EuroNCAP tested, but expect a five-star score. Safety kit includes ABS, ESP and six airbags, active front headrests and seatbelt pretensioners as standard.

9. Equipment: 10/10
All cars have rear parking sensors, air-con, 17-inch alloy wheels, hill descent control, Bluetooth connectivity plus heated front and rear seats as standard. Premium spec cars add 18-inch alloys, dual-zone climate control, front and rear sunroofs, auto headlights and wipers, roof rails, chrome trim, folding door mirrors, keyless entry and rear privacy glass.

10. X-Factor: 9/10
For the price of a hatchback the Hyundai ix35 offers a great-looking SUV with good performance, low running costs, practicality and impressive levels of kit.