WHEN style and suitability meet, there are fewer successful combinations than the Hyundai iX35.

It was one of the first of the modern cross-over models which combine the looks of one sector with the size and features of another.

Just about everything is right for buyers in this medium-sized model so long as they don't want to be the first away from the lights or need to carry enormous amounts of big items.

The Hyundai iX35 range comprises two-wheel and four-wheel drive models, mostly diesels but including some petrol engines with manual or automatic transmission and in seven trim levels which total over 20 individual models.

The car we drove sits towards the upper end of the range and for me if you are going into this class you really need the added reassurance of all-wheel-drive. In the case of the Hyundai iX35 it's a very sophisticated system to use and reassuring in operation.

The engine is not the most powerful but its quiet and smooth until pushed to the upper rev-limit, and the automatic changes were silky and swift.

Without trying we edged towards 40mpg but never quite hit that mark, yet it happily settled at 38mpg in a mixture of urban and country conditions.

It was agile in town when parking and not twitchy on twisting roads but always comfortable if a little firm and the road holding was good with no nasty surprises in the handling to upset you.

I liked the weight and feel of the steering and the amount of assistance underfoot with the brakes.

Road noises were present but mechanical and wind noises were low.

The secondary controls were close to hand on the wheel or fascia and the simple instruments display was easy to read and backed up by the usual warning lights.

Heating and ventilation was straightforward and it filled the cabin with warm or cool air as desired with good output and modest noise from the system.

Oddments space is modest and the boot capacity is also suitable only for couple of cases or shopping bags when used four-up though it increases to a more useful size when the back seats are gradually dropped.

Access into the back was fairly good and much easier into the front seats, room was very good infront and quite good in the back, particularly for teenagers or children. Seats were well shaped, nicely trimmed and very supporting with good adjustment on the front pair.

Visibility was good to the front and sides but there was a blind-spot when reversing due to the high tail so the radar and camera were really appreciated and an essential in my opinion. Wipers cleared a good area of glass and the lights were bright.

It is well equipped in the Premium grade and this is one of the most popular levels in the series and its easy to see why particularly when matched to this powertrain.

The user-friendliness of the iX35 is a very strong selling point and its uncompromising on-road four-wheel-drive is a tremendous asset as well and for which you don't pay a penalty but which rewards with its additional ability and safety.