List Auto: Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai has released a few more pictures as well as full specs and details on its all-new ix35, the European version of the all-new Tucson SUV/CUV that made its debut in the Korean market earlier this month. Following its Frankfurt motor show launch later this month, the ix35 will go on sale across Europe in the first quarter of 2010. Besides being the first production vehicle expressing Hyundai's so-called "fluidic sculpture" design language, the ix35 also benefits from an all-new engine line-up.

At launch, the Tucson's replacement will be offered with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine rated at 166-horsepower and 20.1kg.m (145 lb-ft.) of torque and the 2.0-liter "R" diesel that comes in a choice of two flavors, a high output version with 184 hp and 40kg.m (289 lb-ft.) of torque, and a base version with 136-horsepower and 32kg.m (231 lb-ft.) of torque.

The gasoline unit engines produce CO2 emissions of 178g/km (2WD MT) while the diesels, 165g/km (2WD MT) and 158g/km (4WD MT), respectively.

Starting from November 2010, the ix35's European range will be enhanced with the addition of a new 1.6-liter GDI gasoline unit that makes 140 hp and 17kg.m (123 lb-ft.) of torque, with 158g/km of CO2 (149 g/km when fitted with Hyundai's ISG start-stop tech), and an also new 1.7-liter turbo diesel rated at 115hp and 26 kg.m (188 lb-ft) of torque, with CO2 emissions of 149 g/km (2WD MT) when equipped with ISG.

Hyundai said that six-speed manual gearboxes are standard on all diesels while the more powerful 2.0-liter 'R' will also come with the option of a six-speed automatic.

To improve handling and ride as well as to minimizes intrusion into the cabin, the Korean automaker adopted a multi-link rear suspension for the ix35, while the front suspension set-up up employs Macpherson struts.

Depending on the market, the ix35 will offer buyers the choice of front- and all-wheel drive while two new safety features make their appearance on the compact CUV/SUV, the Hill start Assist Control and Downhill Brake Control.

The ix35 rides on a 2,640mm wheelbase which is 10mm longer than the outgoing Tucson while at 4,410mm and 1,820mm, it is also longer and wider than its predecessor by 85mm and 20mm, respectively, thus promising to offer improved passenger space.

Despite the fact that the overall height of 1660mm has been lowered by 20mm, the Korean firm says it has not affected headroom compared to the Tucson. As a matter of fact, Hyundai said that greater travel in the front seat adjustment actually gives more legroom and headroom for taller drivers.

According to the Korean company, the center console box has an enlarged capacity of 6.2 liters while the height of the rear cargo screen has been raised for extra capacity and a small storage binnacle has been added in the rear cargo area.

Notable new features for the ix35 include the "ECO" LED icon located between the speedometer and tachometer that flashes when the optimum gear shift point for maximum fuel efficiency is reached; a new rear-view camera that operates in conjunction with a 3.5-inch color LCD built into the rear-view mirror; push button start; steering wheel-mounted audio remote controls and low rolling resistance tires for 16-inch wheels.

Production of the Tucson's successor for the domestic market started at Hyundai's Ulsan factory in South Korea in September. In November 2009, the same plant will begin production for North America and other international markets.

The European version of the compact crossover will be built at the Kia Motors factory in Zilina, Slovakia, with production slated to begin in the first quarter of 2010. Finally, the Chinese market ix35 will be made in China by the company's Beijing Hyundai joint-venture.