SUV makers are becoming adept at surgery that cuts at the very heart of the genre – its all-wheel drive system. But there are benefits, as NEIL DOWLING reports. July 2011
HYUNDAI ix35 ACTIVE
PRICE: $28,990

VALUE: Good features but doesn’t match the Nissan for knick-knacks and family-focused ideas. Steel wheels are a bit of a let down, though six-speed automatic is a pearler. It matches the Nissan on most levels – cruise, iPod/USB audio and trip computer, but then runs out of entertainment for the kids. Star: 3.5/5

 
TECHNOLOGY: The six-speed auto is its highlight, though the 2.0-litre engine is clever in its ability to punch out 122kW/197Nm which makes it a more sparkly drive than the Nissan. Suspension systems are similar so handling is on par but X-Trail rides smoother. Star: 4/5

DESIGN: The ix35’s curves clash with the X-Trail’s boxy shape. While the Hyundai looks modern now, it may date quicker. Inside it’s swoopy and bright but silver plastics can scratch and fade. That said it’s all workable and easy to operate, albeit at 225mm shorter than the Nissan with less cargo area and rear seat room. Star: 4/5

SAFETY: Top shelf five-star crash rating with all the current electronic accoutrements, including six airbags, down hill brake control and hill start assist. Also has a full-size spare wheel so rates as a holiday wagon. Star: 4/5

DRIVING: Stylish lines lose some marks for visibility from the driver’s seat. Performance is good and auto really suits the engine, unless you’re in a hurry. It seems to be slightly noisier – tyres and engine – than the X-Trail and steering isn’t as confident. But keep with it and it hangs on through the corners. Comfort is good at cruising speed but suspension is prone to the jiggles over poor roads at low speeds. Star: 3/5

SCORE: 3.5/5

NISSAN X-TRAIL ST
PRICE: $30,990

VALUE: You miss out on all-wheel drive but not much else. Lots of value here with the CVT transmission, alloy wheels, four cooled cupholders and cool/heat glovebox, six-CD player with iPod/USB and Bluetooth, trip computer, cruise control and so on. Three-year warranty doesn’t match Hyundai’s five. Star: 4/5

 
TECHNOLOGY: There’s nothing to thrill here, though the 102kW/192Nm 2.0-litre engine is pleasantly efficient and durable. The CVT auto isn’t as responsive as a conventional auto but it does get better economy than a manual. Star: 3.5/5

DESIGN: The X-Trail’s boxy shape is more about space efficiency than style. There’s lots of room inside and clever splitlevel boot has handy pull-out drawers. The rear seat is a 40/20/40 split, folds flat for extra cargo space and has a six-step recline for snoozers. Clever stuff that nails it for young families. Star: 4.5/5

SAFETY: Gets a four-star crash rating and has six airbags, electronic stability control and ABS brakes with brakeforce distribution, brake assist and other aids.
A full-size spare is standard. Star: 3.5/5

DRIVING: Box shape makes for great visibility and easy parking. The X-Trail is on the mark for ease of driving but the CVT auto needs more accelerator pressure to get moving and that initially makes the engine rev disproportionately high. Ride comfort is very good and handling is reasonable for a tall, front-drive wagon. It’s no racer and that’s what appeals in its role as an efficient, suburban-based family car. Star; 3.5/5

SCORE: 4/5

VERDICT: Park these together and the prize for looks goes to the ix35.
But pragmatists will see that Nissan’s box opens to reveal more features that may be more tuned to family or leisureoriented motorists.

ix35 – 18.5pts
X-Trail – 19pts