Car Statistics: Hyundai - ix35  Series 10 (4 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

The ix35 is good looking, but is nothing groundbreaking - it follows the Ford Kuga's chunky styling even down to the creases down to the bonnet.

Handling (4 stars)

The steering is responsive and smooth on the ix35, but a car of this size is always going to feel a little uncomfortable through corners. The four-wheel option helps it feel a little more secure on the road.

Comfort (4 stars)

Seats in the ix35 are firm and supportive, and are heated even down to the lowest trim level. The ride is also slightly firm to reduce body roll in the corners, but not so much to be jarring.

Quality (4 stars)

Hyundai is developing an improving reputation for reliability and this is backed up by a five year unlimited mileage warranty. The ix35 feels well put together, although our test car had developed an irritating rattle by the end of our drive.

Performance (3 stars)

If you are after speed from your small off-roader then look elsewhere. But the 2.0-litre diesel still copes admirably under acceleration and is good for most overtaking manoeuvres. The petrol is less so and is best avoided.

Roominess (4 stars)

The boot compares well with direct rivals such as the Ford Kuga and the Nissan Qashqai - it boasts 150 and 100 litres more capacity than the two respectively. Rear legroom is also good, even if visibility is not so good for back-seat passengers.

Costs (5 stars)

This should be one of the ix35's trump cards. The diesel offers fuel economy up to a very decent 51.4mpg. Residual value experts are predicting figures that even Hyundai admitted were higher than it expected.

Value (5 stars)

Packing the ix35 full of standard kit means it is remarkably good value for money. Even the entry level model gets toys such as Bluetooth and heated seats in the front and the rear. A small options list means it is not easy to add lots to the final price.

Stereo (3 stars)

The stereo offers an ipod connection as standard, and is easy to use generally. Satnav is available as part of a Media option pack that also brings a reversing camera and an upgraded stereo so is not bad value for money.

Other

Overall Rating (4 stars)