Hyundai Ix35
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a practical family SUV that won’t break the bank? The Hyundai Ix35 could be exactly what you need. This compact crossover delivers a winning combination of space, comfort, and reliability wrapped in an attractive and modern package. It’s designed for families who want the elevated driving position and versatility of an SUV without the hefty running costs of larger models.

The Ix35 stands out in the crowded family SUV market with its bold styling and generous equipment levels. Its distinctive front grille and sleek profile give it road presence that rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage struggle to match. Inside, you’ll find a well built cabin that feels more premium than the price suggests, with plenty of space for passengers and luggage alike.

What makes the Ix35 particularly appealing is its real world usability. The engines are refined and economical, the ride is comfortable, and the build quality feels solid and dependable. It handles the school run with ease but is equally at home on longer family trips or weekend adventures. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, it excels at being a reliable, practical companion that makes family life easier without demanding premium prices.

What's the Hyundai Ix35 Like to Drive?

The Hyundai Ix35 focuses on smooth, comfortable performance rather than outright speed. The engine range includes efficient petrol and diesel options, with the 1.7 CRDi diesel being particularly popular for its blend of performance and economy. It produces around 115 horsepower, providing adequate acceleration for family duties and confident overtaking on A roads. The 2.0 litre diesel offers more power at 136 horsepower for those wanting stronger performance.

On the road, the Ix35 feels composed and reassuring. The steering is light at low speeds, making parking straightforward, but weights up nicely at motorway speeds. The suspension setup prioritises comfort over sportiness, soaking up bumps and road imperfections effectively. This makes it an excellent long distance SUV that keeps passengers comfortable. While it won’t thrill keen drivers like some rivals, it delivers the relaxed, stress free driving experience that most families actually want.

How Comfortable Is the Hyundai Ix35?

Step inside the Ix35 and you’re greeted by a well designed cabin that punches above its price point. The dashboard layout is logical and user friendly, with clearly marked controls and a central infotainment screen that’s easy to navigate. Materials feel solid throughout, with soft touch plastics in key areas and attractive trim details. The fit and finish is impressive, reflecting Hyundai’s commitment to build quality during this era.

The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with plenty of adjustment to find your ideal driving position. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and headroom, making the Ix35 genuinely suitable for adult passengers on longer journeys. The elevated driving position provides excellent visibility all around, boosting confidence in traffic and when parking. Cabin refinement is a real strength, with good sound insulation keeping road and wind noise to acceptable levels even at motorway speeds.

The Hyundai Ix35 is a sensible, well rounded family SUV that prioritises the things that matter most to real world buyers. It offers generous space, solid build quality, and impressive fuel economy wrapped in an attractive and modern package. The comfortable ride, quiet cabin, and user friendly interior make it an excellent choice for families who want a stress free ownership experience.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Hyundai Ix35 Expensive to Run?

The Ix35 represents excellent value in the running costs department. The diesel engines are the stars here, with the 1.7 CRDi capable of achieving over 50 mpg in real world driving conditions. Even the more powerful 2.0 litre diesel delivers respectable economy in the mid 40s. Insurance groups are reasonable for a family SUV, typically falling in groups 12 to 18 depending on the specific model and trim level.

Purchase prices for used examples are very competitive, making the Ix35 an affordable entry point into SUV ownership. Hyundai’s reputation for reliability means maintenance costs tend to be predictable and reasonable. The comprehensive warranty that came with new cars also provides peace of mind for those buying nearly new examples. Parts and servicing are widely available and competitively priced. For families seeking car finance options, the Ix35’s strong residual values and affordable running costs make it an attractive proposition that won’t strain the household budget.

Hyundai Ix35 Practicality & Boot Space

The Ix35 excels in real world practicality, making it an ideal family companion. The 465 litre boot is generously sized for the class, easily accommodating the weekly shopping, holiday luggage, or sports equipment. The rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split to create a large flat loading area when you need to carry larger items. Clever storage solutions throughout the cabin include door pockets, cupholders, and a useful centre console compartment.

Inside, there’s ample space for five adults, though the middle rear seat is best reserved for children on longer journeys. The high driving position and large windows create an airy, spacious feeling that makes the cabin feel larger than it actually is. For families considering used Hyundai cars, the Ix35 offers one of the most practical packages in the range. Its compact external dimensions make it easy to park and manoeuvre in tight spaces, while still providing the interior space and versatility that modern families demand.

The Hyundai Ix35 stands as one of the most accomplished family SUVs of its generation. It successfully combines practical space, comfortable cruising ability, and impressive fuel economy into a package that works brilliantly for real world family life. The well built interior, generous equipment levels, and strong reliability record make it a smart choice for buyers seeking long term satisfaction rather than short term thrills.

You choose the Ix35 because it makes family life easier without breaking the bank. Its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and efficient engines handle everything from the daily commute to family holidays with equal competence. For buyers seeking a dependable SUV that offers excellent value for money, the Ix35 remains one of the best cars under £10,000 available today. It proves that sometimes the sensible choice is also the smart choice.