THERE are few things more attractive in a car that is keenly priced than to put your foot on the accelerator and realise the engine is a belter.

This was the happy experience I had in the ix35 - Hyundai's crossover that combines 4x4 styling with the practicality of a family hatchback.

The 2.0-litre diesel power unit displays the pulling power normally associated with a Hollywood superstar and deploys its talents with a smoothness that makes overtaking a compulsory manoeuvre on all but the most traffic clogged roads.

This combined with an aversion to using large quantities of fuel gives the ix35 a head start when it comes to attracting the large number of buyers the Korean manufacturer hopes will come flocking to its showrooms.

The two-wheel drive version I tested just about handles the oil burner's power although the front wheels feel on the verge of spinning if you make a quick getaway.

Indeed the all-wheel drive option isn't much more expensive and is a decent choice if you desire an ix35 that offers better grip.

That said the two-wheel drive version is anything but a dog to drive as it offers a decent ride and good handling characteristics.

It also holds the road surprisingly well for a car of its height while the steering strikes the right balance between the need for lightness when parking in a tight spot and control at high speeds.

The suspension ensures there is little if any body lean through corners and that humps and hollows don't make their presence felt in the cabin.

The ix35 is essentially a small Sport Utility Vehicle based on the platform of Hyundai's successful i30 hatchback. Logically this makes it a rival for the likes of the Ford Kuga and the Nissan Qashqai - but it is also a good alternative to smaller family hatchbacks.

The elevated driving position gives the ix35 the feel of an off-roader and there is great visibility all round while all the buttons and dials are well set out and easy to use on the stylish dashboard.

More good news includes a driving position that is fully adjustable allowing a decent position to be found behind the steering wheel. The cabin feels solidly put together and there's the welcome safety net of Hyundai's excellent warranty.

The ix35 is a good option for busy families as the wide dimensions mean plenty of space in the cabin for both front and rear seat occupants.

The flat floor and large door openings make it a cinch for the kids to get in and out and the boot is large and a good shape while 60/40 split rear seats fold down to leave a flat load floor.

Hyundai maintains a well-earned reputation for throwing plenty of kit at its cars.

The ix35 Premium gets 18-inch alloy wheels, four electric windows, parking sensors as well as climate control and a panoramic sunroof. There's also a decent radio/CD stereo system that offers an iPod connection as standard and is simplicity itself to operate.

There are also numerous safety features including enough airbags to refloat the Titanic, downhill brake control and other electronic gadgets that help keep you on the road.

It all goes to boost the ix35's value for money rating and thus attractiveness to potential buyers which should result in good sales figures for what is a decent motor.