► Hyundai Tucson name replaces ix35
► First official sketch of new crossover
► Full story at 2015 Geneva motor show
Hyundai will replace its ix35 at the 2015 Geneva motor show with the new Tucson – and this is our first, sketchy look at its latest crossover.
Called the Tucson in many markets around the world, it was previously dubbed ix35 in the UK. The company says its new global name reflects its importance strategically.
First design sketch of the new 2015 Hyundai Tucson
Only this single teaser image has been issued of the new ix35 replacement, revealing a crisp-looking family SUV.
Are there hints of Kia Sportage to its wedge profile? Perhaps that is no coincidence, since Peter Schreyer, the man who crafted the modern Kia family look, has now assumed responsibility for sister brand Hyundai’s styling too.
Schreyer on the new Tucson
Hyundai’s chief design officer said: ‘Our new compact SUV will be a big step forward for the Hyundai brand globally. The All-New Tucson has a bold and athletic presence and a proud stance.
‘Its design is characterised by flowing surfaces, bold proportions, sharp lines and – most important – our brand signature hexagonal grille.’
No great shakes there, then. See the Tucson for real in the metal at the Geneva motor show on 3 March 2015.
The ix35 has been one of Hyundai’s top three sellers in Britain and reaffirms the company’s reputation in the SUV market; it has sold more than 1 million crossovers in Europe since the Santa Fe first launched last decade.