11:21 am, March 5, 2019
SSANGYONG has unveiled its latest model – the new Korando – at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show.
The Korando is the latest in a long line of SsangYong SUVs, and the fourth generation to carry the name. It features a design inspired by the SIV-2 concept, with angular styling and the brand’s chromed ‘family face’ also seen on the Rexton.
It’s longer, lower and wider than the model it replaces, with a lengthier wheelbase for improved passenger legroom. SsangYong claims better headroom and rear-seat space than all its nearest competitors, and a ‘high-tech, premium-feel interior’.
It’s certainly improved in terms of looks – the Korando’s dashboard now features a modern, nine-inch infotainment display and the brand’s first digital dial pack. There’s even ambient lighting with selectable colours, and all models will feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.
SsangYong reveal the new Korando. They say it’s a whole new direction for the brand. UK team is looking for more dealers to help sales push in 2019 and beyond pic.twitter.com/Vxei3SVbVH
— James Baggott (@CarDealerEd) 5 March 2019
Two engines will be on offer initially – one petrol and one diesel. Both will be available with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox. Four-wheel drive will also be on offer.
The petrol engine delivers 161bhp and 280Nm of torque, and will emit 146g/km of CO2. No fuel economy figures have been released yet.
The diesel is a 134bhp unit with 324Nm of torque and CO2 emissions of 115g/km.
The car will be capable of towing two tonnes – useful, as the current Korando is popular with caravanners.
SsangYong also says that the Korando will see a fully electric model join the range ‘in due course’ – though it’s revealed no further details on this.
All models will receive the brand’s class-leading seven-year warranty, and SsangYong says they’ll be ‘competitively priced’ and ‘comprehensively equipped’. SsangYong is traditionally a budget brand, so we’d expect prices to be slightly below its main rivals.
The current Korando starts from £17,495 on the road.
MORE: Car registrations up 1.4 per cent in February
MORE: Tesla owners condemn drastic price cuts
MORE: Diverse mixture of people and skills helps us achieve success
