HYUNDAI ix35 2010 – 2015

The Hyundai ix35 has something of a split-personality. It began life in 2004 under the name Tucson, before switching in 2010, to ix35 as part of Hyundai’s move towards Euro-style alphanumeric names. The arrival of a new model in August 2015 saw the name return to Tucson. Most Hyundai ix35s are used as a family wagon rather than SUVs. In all-wheel-drive format they can be driven on mild forest trails and the like. In August 2012 the ix35 received a mild facelift and satellite navigation was introduced in the Elite… Read more

IONIQ CONCEPT PREVIEWS EV HI-PO CATALOGUE

Hyundai has unveiled a concept constructed with prototype N Performance Parts. The Ioniq 5 N NPX1 previews an array of enhancements by N Performance Parts that will be available for purchase by customers in the near future. Continuing from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, such as i30 Sedan N, i30 N and i20 N, Hyundai N plans to offer specialised tuning components for all-electric N models including the Ioniq 5 N. It features a carbon front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser, rear wing spoiler, lightweight hybrid carbon wheels, high-performance brake… Read more

KONA N REFLECTS THE HYUNDAI FUTURE

There’s nothing new about ‘influencers’, that cohort of ‘pretty’ girls and boys who lead youngsters by their credit cards to so-called desirable dressing. For years automobile manufacturers have used ‘futurists’ to try to predict what the car buyer will want in four years’ time – the average development period for a new vehicle. With EVs and hybrids rapidly accelerating up the sales charts the new Hyundai Kona, including petrol powered-only models, has been designed to look like an electric vehicle – no radiator grille – the maker claiming this is… Read more

NEW-LOOK TUCSON ON THE WAY

It’s two decades since Hyundai Tucson entered an emerging SUV segment. In that time, it has gone on to evolve into a global bestseller. Now a new-look Tucson is on the way. It’s the first update for the car since the launch of the fourth-generation Tucson in 2020. Due to make its European debut in early-2024 it will arrive here midway through the year and will include a hybrid variant for the first time. A more dynamic appearance is said to embody the company’s progressive vision for future mobility although… Read more

SEXIER CAMRY TO COME AS HYBRID ONLY

Toyota has not surprisingly revealed that the next Camry will be hybrid only. Following in the footsteps of Corolla, next-generation Camry sedan is visually more striking, with a sharper more athletic look, featuring Toyota’s new “hammerhead” grille. It’s complemented by slim LED headlights, daytime running lights and tail lights. Camry will also be the first Toyota in Australia equipped with the brand’s 2.5-litre, four- cylinder engine and the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System, delivering a more controllable and engaging drive experience. Toyota engineers have combined the engine’s output with lighter and… Read more

IONIQ 6 UPGRADE ADDS VALUE AND EFFICIENCY

Hyundai Australia is now accepting orders for the upgraded version of its Ioniq 6 fully- electric sports sedan, with delivery planned for the first quarter of next year. The current Ioniq 6 arrived here earlier this year to join its sibling, the Ioniq 5 crossover SUV, in Hyundai’s electric vehicle sub-brand range. As before the 2024 Ioniq 6 comes with a choice of three variants but with a new entry-level model, just called Ioniq 6, replacing the previous mid-spec Techniq and joining the continuing Dynamiq and Epiq models. The addition… Read more

NEW SLEEK AND SPORTY SONATA NOW ON SALE

When the first Hyundai Sonata sedan arrived here in 1989 it was a conservatively-styled and affordable family-sized alternative to vehicles such as Toyota Camry, Holden Commodore, Ford Falcon and Mitsubishi Magna. All but the Camry soon to become casualties of the looming local factory closures. Now in its eighth generation the Sonata has progressively morphed from those relatively bland beginnings into a sleek and sporty four-door coupe. The latest upgrade to the Genn 8 Sonata has now arrived here and it takes the styling to the next level with looks… Read more

NEW NAMES, EXTRA FEATURES FOR 2024 HYUNDAI PALISADE

Hyundai Australia has released details of its MY2024 flagship Palisade seven-seat SUV including a name change for its high-spec variant as well as additional standard features. Launched here in 2020, and upgraded in 2022, Palisade is the largest model in Hyundai’s SUV range. At a smidgeon under five metres, it’s around the same size and price as competitors such as Toyota Kluger, Mazda CX-90 and Kia Sorento. The previous Highlander name for the top-grade Palisade has now been replaced with the Calligraphy and a higher-spec Black Ink variant – no… Read more

i30 SEDAN N UPDATE – YEAH BABY!

Hyundai has taken the wraps off a new i30 Sedan N marking the eighth anniversary of its high-performance brand. The new Sedan N boasts upgraded technological capabilities transferred from motorsport competition, to offer improved balance under high-performance conditions. With enhanced safety and comfort, it’s designed to deliver an emotionally engaging driving experience based on the three pillars of N vehicle development – Corner Rascal, Racetrack Capability and Everyday Sportscar. Ride and handling enhancements include a reinforced engine mount membrane for reduced after shake and improved agility, G-bushing reinforcement for improved… Read more

EV(LUTION) A MAGNET FOR FOSSIL-FED HYUNDAI KONA

In a display, which can only be described as a case of automotive smoke and mirrors, the new Hyundai Kona is designed to look like an electric vehicle – no radiator grille – whether an EV, hybrid or petrol powered. The maker Hyundai says this is to make the whole range of the small SUV, including petrol variants – EV and hybrids are due here by year’s end – blend in with traffic better in the future. The ‘petrols’ on offer at present are a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with a CVT… Read more