Presented in late 2009 as the ix35 in Europe, Korea and other markets around the world besides North America where it retained the Tucson nameplate, Hyundai’s compact crossover is approaching that time in life when most car manufacturers facelift their models to keep them competitive with their chief rivals.

These new spy pictures of a camouflaged ix35 where shot in Germany where Hyundai has its European headquarters.

With all the cladding covering the car, it is near impossible to be certain about the styling updates, but it looks like Hyundai will refresh the crossover’s front and rear ends, and possibly make some changes to its profile lines.

The interior of the ix35 is expected to remain largely unchanged in terms of styling, but will likely benefit from equipment and technology upgrades, while the existing range of petrol and diesel powertrains will be carried over.

Since the ix35 and the Tucson are identical sans the engine range, we expect the North American model to gain the same cosmetic treatment.

PHOTO GALLERY

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