Hyundai’s all-new Tucson replacement has been officially unveiled.  To be known as ix35 locally and in Europe, and Tucson ix in South Korea, the compact sports utility vehicle has sweeping coupe-like lines, a premium vehicle feel and comes with many new features. 
Its features begin with the exterior styling which is based on the ix-onic concept shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March.  The power output, fuel-efficiency, comfort and safety features have been all upgraded over the Tucson, which the ix35 will replace. 
The ix35 will be launched with either a 2-litre all-new Diesel R engine or 2-litre Theta-II petrol engine and is fitted with Hyundai’s all-new six-speed automatic transmission. 
The diesel engine achieves 6.5 litres/100 km fuel economy with maximum power output of 137 kW.  The petrol engine does 8.6 litres/100 km with a maximum power output of 124 kW.
The Tucson has been one of the most popular Hyundai models with more than 1 million units sold worldwide since its launch in 2004.
The vehicle is hoped to be on sale in New Zealand as early as April 2010.

“We are launching the facelift Santa Fe here in the next few months which features a whole new drive train, the 2.2 litre R-Series diesel engine and an all new six speed transmission. The ix35 will also have this engine as one of its engine options,” says Philip Eustace, executive director Hyundai New Zealand.
Some of the new features of the Tucson ix35 are hill descent control, push button start with proximity key, reversing camera, heated seats, USB/iPod interface and a panoramic sunroof.