Choosing the right engine for your Hyundai ix35 can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the model or thinking about buying one used. The ix35 has been around for years and comes with a variety of engine options, each offering different balances of power, efficiency, and driving experience. Understanding these differences can help you pick the engine that suits your lifestyle, budget, and driving habits best.
In this article, we’ll walk through the most common ix35 engine models, highlighting their strengths, quirks, and what kind of driver they’re best suited for.
The Petrol Engines: Smooth and Reliable
Many ix35 models come equipped with petrol engines, which tend to appeal to drivers who prefer a quieter ride and don’t necessarily need the torque boost diesel engines provide. The petrol variants most often include the 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter engines.
The 1.6-liter petrol engine is usually found in earlier or base models of the ix35. It offers decent fuel economy and enough power for everyday city driving and light highway use. If your driving mainly involves commuting, running errands, or casual weekend trips, this engine can be a sensible choice. It’s relatively affordable to maintain and tends to be less noisy than its diesel counterparts.
The 2.0-liter petrol engine steps up the power, making it a good fit for those who want a bit more pep, especially when carrying passengers or tackling steeper roads. It still balances fuel economy fairly well but provides a smoother acceleration experience, which some drivers find more enjoyable for longer drives.
Petrol engines generally warm up quicker than diesel and produce less vibration, contributing to a comfortable driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, they tend to have higher fuel consumption compared to diesel models, especially on longer journeys.
The Diesel Engines: Torque and Efficiency
Diesel engines have long been popular in SUVs for their impressive torque and fuel efficiency, and the ix35 is no exception. The most common diesel engines in the ix35 lineup are the 1.7-liter and 2.0-liter CRDi (Common Rail Direct Injection) units.
The 1.7-liter CRDi diesel engine is often praised for its balance between performance and economy. It’s a great choice if you want to keep running costs low but still need enough power for everyday driving. This engine offers strong low-end torque, which means better pulling power at lower speeds — perfect if you often drive in hilly areas or tow small loads.
For drivers looking for more robust performance, the 2.0-liter CRDi engine delivers extra power and torque, making it easier to overtake on highways and handle more demanding driving conditions. This engine shines on longer journeys, where it can stretch its fuel efficiency over miles and miles, often achieving impressive mileage figures.
Diesel engines do tend to be noisier and produce more vibration compared to petrol units, which can affect the comfort level for some drivers. They also require careful maintenance, especially concerning the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and fuel injection system, to keep running smoothly.
Transmission Pairings: Manual or Automatic?
When choosing your ix35 engine, you’ll likely encounter both manual and automatic transmission options. The transmission choice often complements the engine type and intended driving style.
Manual transmissions paired with either petrol or diesel engines give you more control over gear changes, which some drivers appreciate for a more engaging driving experience. Manuals are often slightly more fuel-efficient if driven carefully, and they tend to be less expensive to maintain.
Automatic transmissions offer convenience, especially in heavy traffic or urban driving. Early ix35 automatics were simple torque converters, but later models introduced more advanced six-speed automatics and dual-clutch transmissions. These newer automatics improve fuel efficiency and responsiveness, making them an excellent match for both petrol and diesel engines.
Choosing between manual and automatic often comes down to your personal preference and driving environment rather than the engine itself, but knowing the pairing options helps narrow your choice.
Performance and Practicality: What Do You Prioritize?
Your choice of engine should also reflect how you use your ix35. For daily city driving with occasional highway trips, a smaller petrol engine might be more practical and cost-effective. Its smoother operation and quieter cabin make it comfortable for stop-start traffic, and the maintenance costs are generally lower.
If your drives include a lot of long-distance cruising or you frequently carry heavy loads or tow trailers, diesel engines tend to be better suited. Their torque-rich nature provides a more effortless driving experience when extra power is needed, and the fuel savings on long trips can add up quickly.
For mixed driving conditions, such as a combination of city, highway, and occasional rough roads, the 2.0-liter engines — whether petrol or diesel — offer a solid middle ground. They provide enough power to handle diverse situations without feeling underpowered or overly thirsty.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
One of the biggest factors for many buyers is fuel economy and the overall cost of running the vehicle. Diesel engines generally come out ahead in fuel economy, often returning 10-20% better mileage than petrol engines, especially on highways. This makes diesel a cost-effective choice if you regularly cover high mileages.
However, diesel engines can have higher upfront costs and potentially more expensive servicing, especially as components like DPFs or turbochargers age. Petrol engines, while less economical in fuel consumption, often have cheaper parts and servicing, making them appealing for lower mileage drivers.
It’s also worth considering fuel prices and taxes in your region, as these can influence which engine is more affordable over time.
Reliability and Maintenance
Hyundai has built a reputation for solid reliability, and the ix35 engines generally live up to that expectation. Petrol engines often require less complex maintenance than diesels, with simpler fuel and ignition systems.
Diesel engines require more attention to the fuel injection system and exhaust after-treatment components. Regular servicing and high-quality fuel are key to avoiding issues such as clogged DPFs or injector problems.
Whichever engine you choose, regular maintenance and timely repairs will keep your ix35 running smoothly for years.
Final Thoughts: Choosing What Fits You Best
Deciding which ix35 engine model is right for you comes down to understanding your driving needs, budget, and preferences. If you favor smooth, quiet driving around town with manageable running costs, petrol engines offer a reliable and comfortable option.
If your priority is long-distance efficiency, pulling power, and lower fuel bills on the highway, diesel engines are worth considering, provided you’re comfortable with their maintenance requirements.
Finally, think about your transmission preference and how it complements your chosen engine to create a driving experience that feels natural and enjoyable to you.
With the variety of ix35 engines available, there’s a good chance you’ll find a model that fits your lifestyle perfectly — whether you’re navigating urban streets or hitting the open road.
