Hyundai ix35 Production to Start in Early 2010

Hyundai will manufacture the new ix35 crossover in Slovakia, with Kia to handle production starting early 2010. Officially presented for the American market at the LA Auto Show, the ix35 will be sold in the US as Hyundai Tucson. In fact, the ix35 is often referred to as the Tucson replacement, taking his place in Hyundai's lineup after six years of availability.

The ix35 was on display at the Frankfurt Auto Show and will be offered with both gasoline and diesel configurations. The diesels will come in the form of a new R 2.0-liter unit developing either 184 horsepower and 392 Nm of torque or 136 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. A second unit is available as well, the 1.7-liter which releases 115 horsepower and 255 Nm of torque.

There will be two gasoline units, a 2.0-liter producing 163 horsepower and 197 Nm of torque plus the Gamma 1.6-liter GDI that produces 140 horsepower and 167 Nm of torque.

Additionally, there are two transmission options available across the range, including a 6-speed manual unit, offered as standard, and a 6-speed automatic with Shiftronic coming as optional.

As for the interiors, both the passengers and the driver will get a wide array of features, no matter if we're talking about the 3.5-inch color LCD or the start Push Button with smart-key proximity sensor. Additionally, the car features a dual-panel panoramic with UV blocking, USB/AUX connectivity and a cooled glovebox.

Pricing details are expected to be released at a later date.