Ix-onic is a very green tonic

If we're being honest, the Hyundai Tucson 4x4 is a very worthy but quite dull SUV - but that latter quality is about to change as the Korean maker used Geneva to unveil this: the ix-onic concept.

What's all the fuss about?

The ix-onic was styled to suit European tastes, apparently - so it's already proving quite successful, because we're European and we like its style. Some of the details of this concept, like the bling wheels, oddly shaped integrated tailpipes and aerodynamically sculpted plastic rear screen, will go in the production version - as will part of the name. However, it's still a good-looking thing, and surprisingly green, too...

What makes it so green?

Amazingly, the 1.6-litre turbocharged engine - powering a Ford Kuga-sized 4x4, remember - emits 149g/km of CO₂. Compared to the 159g/km Ford Kuga, for example, that represents some quite remarkable greenness, partly down to the Idle Stop & Go technology shared with fellow Korean Kia - and all from a smooth petrol unit. It's mated to a quick and economical double clutch automatic transmission, too

When can I buy one?

Not for a while yet, though when it hits the showroom it will have a different name too - most likely ix35 (hence the first part of the concept's name). Prices will be in line with what you'd expect for a Korean 4x4, starting at around £18k and working up the low twenties to undercut Europe's offerings ever-so-slightly.

Mark Nichol