Hyundai was the toast of the day at the just ended 9 th Nigeria Auto Awards. Two of the auto makers models ix35 crossover and its sibling Veloster sport sedan dazzled at the event, clinching the ‘Most preferred executive SUV’ and ‘Best in design’ awards of the year respectively.
While the ix35 outclassed rival Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage and Ford Escape in the category, the Veloster dusted BMW X6 to emerge winner of the coveted honour.
Another distinguishing feature which set Hyundai ix35 apart is the interior quality which the panel of adjudicators described as comfortable fit and f inish, with robust switches and blue backlighting that gives the interior a feel of class.
Coupled with this is the car’s suspension which is designed to provide soft ride and absorb all but the biggest of potholes and bumps that drivers may encounter on the roads.
The ix35 interior is adequately insulated and does a great job of filtering out tyre, road and wind noise, while the engines are reasonably powerful, smooth and quiet.
Currently adjudged one of the best SUVs in the market, the ix35 comes with the most affordable price tags and some of the best equipment levels around.
Hyundai Motors Nigeria Sales and Marketing Head, Mr. Jatin Nadkarni, said: “ix35 is one of the most stylish in its class with sleek, sporty look that turns heads in a way you wouldn’t expect from a car with a Hyundai badge.”
He said Hyundai ix35 comes in three choice specification levels (Elite, Active and Highlander) with 2.0 gasoline (petrol) engine that churns out 166bhp mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and fitted to 17 inch alloy wheels.
On the other hand, Hyundai Veloster is an entirely fashionable funky hatchback three-door sport-like sedan (one on the driver side and two on the passenger side) uniquely designed for drivers who want something refreshingly different and stimulating – some of the criteria that perhaps informed the jurors’ decisions.
The Veloster is equipped with a 1.6-liter four cylinder engine that produces 138 hp and 132 Ib-ft of torque and mated to a six-speed traditional automatic transmission.
Also known as the “icing on the cake,” the Veloster looks like a regular two-door but when turned 180 degrees through, it looks like a four-door – thanks to the perfectly normal-looking rear door.
