Overview

Released in June 2013, the Ssangyong Stavic was a seven seat people mover. Manufactured in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, the rear-wheel drive Stavic was powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine that was initially available with a five-speed ‘T-Tronic’ automatic transmission; six-speed manual transmissions, however, were available from February 2014.

Dimensions

Compared to the Ssangyong A100 Stavic , the 2013 Stavic was 90 mm shorter (at 5130 mm), but had the same width (1915 mm) and wheelbase length (3000 mm). Inside, the second row of seats could be folded individually and the third row of seats could slide fore/aft and be removed if desired.

Suspension

The Stavic had double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment included dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

ANCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , the rear-wheel drive Stavic received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 24.55 out of 37. In the offset crash test, head protection for the driver was rated as good, though protection of the chest, thighs, lower right leg and feet were rated as marginal. In the side impact test, chest protection was rated as acceptable.

Features

Standard features for the Stavic included 16-inch alloy wheels with 225/65 R16 tyres, a six speaker sound system with a CD player, MP3-compatibility and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod), Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, woven cloth seats, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows, power adjustable and heated mirrors, a tilt adjustable steering column, rear privacy glass, 12 volt power sockets, a trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser; models with automatic transmissions were also fitted with cruise control.

The Stavic SPR was further equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/60 R17 tyres, leather seats, a power adjustable driver’s seat, self-levelling headlights and roof racks.

Brochure

• Brochure: Ssangyong Stavic (July 2013)

Related links

• Specifications: Ssangyong Stavic (August 2013)
• Ssangyong Australia: Ssangyong Stavic
• Wikipedia.org: Ssangyong Rodius/Stavic

Review: Ssangyong A100.I Stavic (2005-07)

Overview

Released in March 2005, the Ssangyong A100 Series I (A100.I) Stavic was a seven-seat people mover. Manufactured in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, the Stavic was available in two variants: the SV270XDi and SV320, with the former available as a rear- or all-wheel drive. For both variants, the engines were originally designed and manufactured by Mercedes-Benz but – for the Stavic – produced by Ssangyong under license. As pictured, the Stavic was sold in international markets as the Rodius. 

Engines

Of the engines,

• For SV270 XDi variants, the 2.7-litre OM647 five-cylinder diesel engine had a cast iron block, common-rail injection, a variable geometry turbocharger, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 18.0:1; and,
• For SV320 variants, the 3.2-litre M104.99 petrol engine had a cast iron block, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 10.0:1.

Beyond the drivetrains, the A100.I Stavic was available in Sports Plus and Limited editions (see table below).

Dimensions and suspension

Designed by Ken Greenley, the Stavic was 5220 mm long, 1915 mm wide, 1845 mm tall and had a 3000 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the Stavic had double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.

AWD system

The Stavic’s all-wheel drive system included a centre differential lock and low range gearing. In normal conditions, drive was directed to the rear-wheels, but up to fifty percent of the engine’s torque could be directed to the front axle if the rear wheels lost traction.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the A100.I Stavic included dual front airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. The Limited edition was also equipped with electronic stability control and traction control.

Features

Standard features for the Stavic Sports Plus included 16-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system with CD player, dual zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, remote central locking, rear parking sensors, multi-function steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, power windows and heated mirrors, tinted windows and immobiliser.

The Stavic Limited was further equipped with a six-stack CD player, leather seats, power adjustable front seats, power sunroof, automatic head lights, anti-glare rear view mirror and roof rails.

Review: Ssangyong A100.II Stavic (2007-08)

Overview

Released in August 2007, the A100 Series II (A100.II) Stavic introduced a revised range and improved equipment levels. As part of the update, the SV320 was discontinued and the 2.7-litre turbo-diesel engine was updated for Euro IV emissions compliance; the Sports Plus edition was also renamed the Sports.

Features

Standard features for the Stavic were improved to include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift, roof rails and 12 volt power outlets; automatic models were also fitted with gearshift buttons on the steering wheel. The Limited edition was also fitted with heated front seats.

Review: Ssangyong A100.III Stavic (2008-13)

Overview

Released in February 2008, the A100 Series III (A100.III) Stavic introduced a revised range and improved safety equipment levels. The all-wheel drive models were discontinued and the entry-level Stavic was simply known as the SV270 XDi since the ‘Sports’ edition was discontinued; the Limited edition was also renamed the ‘SPR’.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the A100.III Stavic was significantly improved with electronic stability control and traction control fitted as standard across the range.

Features

Standard features for the A100.III Stavic models, however, were substantially the same as their A100.II counterparts.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Ssangyong Rodius/Stavic

Review: Ssangyong Mk.2-I Rexton (2006-08)

Overview

Released in September 2006, the Ssangyong Mk.2 Series I (Mk.2-I) Rexton was a large SUV. Manufactured in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, the Rexton RX270 was powered by a 2.7-litre turbo-diesel engine that was mated to either a five-speed manual or automatic transmission. As per the table below, the RX270 was available in Sports and Limited editions.

Initially, the Mk.2-I Rexton had a ‘Torque on Demand’ all-wheel drive system (described below), double wishbone front suspension and a live rear axle. From February 2007, however, the Limited edition had a permanent four-wheel drive system and independent rear suspension.

OM647 engine

PProduced under licence from Mercedes-Benz, the 2.7-litre OM647 five-cylinder turbo-diesel engine had a cast iron block, common-rail injection, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 18.0:1. From February 2007, however, a more powerful version of this engine was available – for Limited editions – which had a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT).

Dimensions

The Mk.2 Rexton was 4720 mm long, 1870 mm wide, 1830 mm tall and had a 2820 mm long wheelbase.

AWD and 4WD systems

For models with the 121 kW turbo-diesel engine, the Mk.2 Rexton had a ‘Torque on Demand’ (TOD) electronic torque management system that controlled the distribution of power according to driving conditions. In normal conditions, the TOD system directed torque to the rear wheels only for maximum fuel efficiency. If rear wheel slippage was detected, however, the TOD system would operate to transfer torque to the front wheels.

The Limited edition with the 137 kW turbo-diesel engine had a permanent four wheel drive (4WD) system. As such, the engine’s torque was distributed constantly to all four wheels. If wheel slippage was detected, torque would be immediately transferred through the electronic stability control (ESC) system to the wheels with traction.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Rexton RX270 included dual front airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution and front seatbelt pretensioners.

The RX270 Limited was further equipped with front seat-mounted side airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, rollover stability control and hill descent control.

Features

Standard features for the Rexton RX270 Sport included 18-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system with CD player and 3.5 mm auxiliary input, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lamps, split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, split and folding rear seats, power windows and heated mirrors, heated and retracting door mirrors, a 12 volt power socket, courtesy lights, rear cargo blind, side steps, roof rails, an alarm and immobiliser. Models with automatic transmissions were also fitted with cruise control.

The Rexton RX270 Limited added leather seats, power adjustable and heated front seats, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, driver memory settings (for the seat and mirrors), an anti-glare rear view mirror and steering wheel gearshift buttons.

Review: Ssangyong Mk.2-II Rexton (2008-12)

Overview

Released in February 2008, the Mk.2 Series II (Mk.2-II) Rexton introduced a revised range, Euro IV emissions compliant engines, improved safety equipment and lower retail prices. The Sports edition was discontinued, leaving the entry-level Rexton as simply the RX270; the Limited was also replaced by the XVT SPR.

Visually, the Mk.2-II Rexton could be identified by its revised bonnet, grille and headlights. Inside, there were minor trim changes.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Mk.2-II Rexton was improved as all models were fitted with front side airbags, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, rollover stability control and hill descent control. 

Features

Compared to the Mk.2-I Rexton Sports, the entry-level Mk.2-II Rexton was fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels (previously 18-inch wheels) and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Compared to the Mk.2-I RX270 Limited, the Rexton XVT SPR gained rear parking sensors and rain-sensing wipers. From May 2010, the Rexton XVT SPR was fitted with front parking sensors and a power-operated sunroof as standard.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Ssangyong Rexton

Overview

Released in Australia in July 2014, the Ssangyong Mk.3 Rexton (also known as the Rexton W in international markets) was a seven-seat SUV. Manufactured in Korea, the Mk.3 Rexton was powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine that was mated to five-speed automatic transmission.

Dimensions

With its ladder-frame chassis, the Mk.3 Rexton was 4755 mm long, 1900 mm wide, 1840 mm tall (including roof racks) and had a 2835 mm long wheelbase. The Mk.3 Rexton had a kerb weight of 1985 kg, while braked towing capacity was 2600 kg.

Steering and suspension

The Mk.3 Rexton had power-assisted rack and pinion steering, double wishbone front suspension and a five-link rigid rear axle (both with coil springs).

Four-wheel drive system

The Mk.3 Rexton had a part-time four-wheel drive (4WD) system with selectable high and low ranges. As such, only the rear wheels were driven when the four-wheel drive system was not engaged. When additional traction was required, however, the driver could switch the transaxle to four-wheel drive for additional traction – this could be done while the vehicle was in motion.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Rexton included dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control (including rollover stability control), traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Features

Standard features for the Rexton included 16-inch alloy wheels with 235/75 R16 tyres, a six speaker sound system with a CD player, MP3 compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB) and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with audio streaming, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat (with three memory settings), leather seat trim, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, front and rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with gearshift buttons, 60:40 split and folding second row seats, third row seats which could be stowed beneath the cargo floor, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, three 12 volt power sockets, floor mats, courtesy lamps, illuminated vanity mirrors, roof rails, a trip computer and an immobiliser.

Brochure

• Specifications: Ssangyong Mk.3 Rexton (July 2014)

Related links

• Ssangyong Australia: Ssangyong Rexton
• Wikipedia.org: Ssangyong Rexton

Review: Ssangyong Mk.1-I Rexton (2003-04)

Overview

Released in April 2003, the Ssanyong Mk.1 Series I (Mk.1-I) Rexton was an all-wheel drive SUV. Manufactured in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, the Rexton was available with either 2.9-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel or 3.2-litre inline six cylinder petrol engines (the RX290 and RX320 variants, respectively). As per the table below, the Mk.1-I Rexton range consisted of Sports and Limited editions.

OM662 and M104 engines

Of the engines,

• For RX290 variants, the 2.9-litre OM662 diesel engine was designed by Mercedes-Benz but manufactured by Ssangyong under license. As such, the diesel engine had a cast iron block, indirect injection, a single overhead camshaft, two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 22.0:1; and,
• For RX320 variants, the 3.2-litre M104.99 petrol engine was also designed by Mercedes-Benz and produced under license by Ssangyong; it had a cast iron block, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 10.0:1.

Both engines were mated to either four-speed BTR automatic or five-speed Tremec manual transmissions. 

Dimensions

Styled by Italdesign, the Mk.1 Rexton had a ladder-frame chassis and was 4720 mm long, 1870 mm wide, 1760 mm tall and had a 2820 mm long wheelbase. Inside, the Rexton had five seats as standard, though two additional third row seats were available as an option.

Steering and suspension

The Rexton had power-assisted rack and pinion steering, double wishbone front suspension and five-link rear suspension.

Four-wheel drive (4WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems

The Mk.1 Rexton was offered with all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive systems:

• The RX290 variants had a part-time four-wheel drive system. As such, only the rear wheels were driven when the four-wheel drive system was not engaged. When additional traction was required, however, the driver could engage the Borg-Warner transfer case to provide four-wheel drive for additional traction – this could be done while the vehicle was in motion; and,
• The RX320 variants had a ‘Torque on Demand’ (TOD) electronic torque management system that controlled the distribution of power according to driving conditions. In normal conditions, the TOD system directed torque to the rear wheels only for maximum fuel efficiency. If rear wheel slippage was detected, however, the TOD system would operate to transfer torque to the front wheels.

The RX290 and RX320 both had high- and low-range gearing.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Rexton included dual front airbags, ABS and front seatbelt pretensioners. 

Features

Standard features for the Rexton Sports included a six speaker sound system with a CD player, air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, remote central locking and an immobiliser.

Beyond this, the Rexton Limited added 16-inch alloy wheels, climate control air conditioning, leather seats and heated mirrors.

Review: Ssangyong Mk.1-II Rexton (2004-06)

Overview

Released in April 2004, the Mk.1 Series II (Mk.1-II) Rexton introduced a new RX270 diesel-engined variant and the consisted of Sport, Sports Plus and Limited editions. For the RX270, the 2.7-litre OM647 five-cylinder diesel engine had a cast iron block, common-rail injection, a variable geometry turbocharger, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 18.0:1.

The Mk.1-II Rexton was fitted with five seats as standard, though seven seats (with dual-zone air conditioning) were available as an extra-cost option for $2000.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Mk.1-II Rexton included dual front airbags, ABS and front seatbelt pretensioners; the Limited editions were also fitted with front side airbags. 

Features

Standard features for the Rexton Sport included 16-inch alloy wheels, six speaker stereo with CD player, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lamps, remote central locking, split and folding rear seats, power windows and door mirrors, heated and retracting door mirrors, rear cargo blind, side steps, roof rails and an immobiliser.

Beyond this, the Rexton Sports Plus was further equipped with automatic headlights and a tilt adjustable leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The range-topping Rexton Limited was distinguished by its power adjustable front seats, heated front seats, driver’s seat and mirror memory settings, rain-sensing wipers, anti-glare rear view mirror and front nudge bar.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Ssangyong Rexton

Review: Ssangyong D100.I Kyron (2006-07)

Overview

Released in February 2006, the Ssangyong D100 Series I (D100.I) Kyron was a compact SUV with a part-time four-wheel drive system. Manufactured in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, the Kyron range consisted of three variants: the M200, M270 and M320. Furthermore, the Kyron had a part-time four-wheel drive system with an electronically-controlled two-speed transfer case; as such, high- and low-range 4WD modes could be selected via a switch on the dashboard.

Engines

Of the engines,

• The M270 variants were powered by the 2.7-litre OM647 five-cylinder turbo-diesel engine which was designed by Mercedes-Benz but produced under license by Ssangyong. As such, the OM647 engine had a cast iron block, common-rail injection, a variable geometry turbocharger, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 18.0:1;
• For M200 variants, the 2.0-litre diesel engine was a derivative of the OM647 engine albeit with four cylinders and a shorter stroke of 85.6 mm (compared to 92.4 mm); bore was unchanged at 86.2 mm; and,
• For M320 variants, the 3.2-litre M104.99 petrol engine was also designed by Mercedes-Benz and produced under license by Ssangyong; it had a cast iron block, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 10.0:1.

Dimensions and suspension

Designed by Ken Greenly, the Kyron was 4660 mm long, 1880 mm wide, 1755 mm tall and had a 2740 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the Kyron had double wishbone front suspension and a five-link live rear axle.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the D100.I Kyron included dual front airbags, ABS and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. The M270 and M320 added full-length curtain airbags, while the M320 was further equipped with brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, rollover stability control and hill descent control.

Features

Standard features for the Kyron M200 included 18-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system with CD player, air conditioning, front fog lights, rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, power windows and door mirrors, heated and retracting door mirrors, roof rails, tinted windows, 12 volt power outlet and immobiliser; automatic models were also fitted with cruise control.

The Kyron M270 was further equipped with a retractable cargo cover, while the range-topping M320 added leather seats, power adjustable front seats, automatic headlights, an anti-glare rear view mirror and rear spoiler.

Review: Ssangyong D100.II Kyron (2007-12)

Overview

Released in August 2007, the D100 Series II (D100.II) Kyron introduced a revised range (the M320 was discontinued), firmer suspension settings and revised styling. Furthermore, the diesel engines were upgraded for Euro IV emissions compliance, with changes including an electronically-controlled exhaust gas recirculation system and a revised ECU.

Visually, the D100.II Kyron could be identified by its more conservative styling, with a new bonnet, grille, larger front air intake, head- and tail-lights, larger tailgate window and alloy wheels. Inside, there was a new instrument cluster, black cloth seat material, improved instrument backlighting, black dashboard and illuminated vanity mirrors; there was also a new steering wheel with gearshift controls for the five-speed automatic transmission.

The D100.II Kyron range was updated in February 2008 and, in 2009, the M270 was discontinued and the five-speed automatic transmission was replaced by a six-speed unit.

Features

Standard features were largely unchanged with the D100.II update, though the Kyron M270 gained a cargo net.

February 2008: Kyron update

In February 2008, safety equipment was improved with the Kyron M200 and M270 fitted with full-length curtain airbags, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, hill decent control and rollover stability control. Furthermore, SPR editions were released with dual zone climate control air conditioning, leather seats, power adjustable and heated front seats, driver’s seat memory settings and a retractable cargo cover.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Ssangyong D100 Kyron

Overview

Released in March 2004, the Ssangyong Musso Sports was a dual cab utility, available in two- or four-wheel drive. Manufactured in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, the Musso Sports was powered by a five-cylinder 2.9-litre turbo-diesel engine that was mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission.

OM662 diesel engine

The 2.9-litre OM662 diesel engine was designed by Mercedes-Benz but manufactured by Ssangyong under license. The OM662 diesel engine had a cast iron block, indirect injection, a single overhead camshaft, two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 22.0:1.

Dimensions and suspension

The Musso Sports was 4935 mm long, 1864 mm wide, 1760 mm tall and had a 2755 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the independent front suspension utilised double wishbones and torsion bars, while the five-link live rear axle had coil springs.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Musso Sports was limited to a driver’s airbag.

Features

Standard features for the Musso Sports included a two speaker sound system, climate control air conditioning, central locking, power mirrors and windows, a tilt adjustable steering wheel and an immobiliser.

The Musso Sports was also fitted with a limited slip differential.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Ssangyong Musso

Overview

Released in May 2005, the Ssangyong W100 Chairman was a large, rear-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, the W100 Chairman was powered by a 3.2-litre six cylinder petrol engine that was mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.

M104 engine and G-Tronic transmission

The W100 Chairman was powered by Mercedes-Benz’s 3.2-litre M104.99 inline six cylinder petrol engine which was produced by Ssangyong under license. Specifically, the M104.99 engine had a cast iron block, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and had a compression ratio of 10.0:1. As standard, the engine was mated to a five-speed Mercedes-Benz ‘5G-Tronic’ automatic transmission.

Dimensions and suspension

Based on Mercedes-Benz’s W124 E-Class platform, the W100 Chairman was 5135 mm long, 1825 mm wide, 1465 mm tall and had a 2900 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the W100 Chairman had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent, multi-link rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the W100 Chairman included dual front airbags, front side airbags, ABS, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Features

Standard features for the W100 Chairman included 16-inch alloy wheels, a ten speaker sound system with a six-disc CD player, climate control air conditioning, leather seats, power adjustable front and rear seats, heated front and rear seats, cruise control, driver’s seat and steering wheel memory settings, front fog lights, remote central locking, multi-function steering wheel, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, power adjustable steering wheel, power windows and mirrors, heated and retracting mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift, tinted windows, a rear blind and an immobiliser.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Ssangyong Chairman H

Review: Ssangyong C200.I Korando (2011-14)

Overview

Released in February 2011, the Ssangyong C200 Series I (C200.I) Korando was a five-seat SUV, available with front- or all-wheel drive. Manufactured in Pyongtaek, South Korea, the C200 Korando was initially available with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, though a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine was introduced in February 2013.

Engines

Of the engines,

• the 2.0-litre D20 DTF diesel engine had a variable-geometry turbocharger, common-rail fuel injection, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, exhaust gas recirculation, a particulate filter and compression ratio of 16.5:1; and,
• the 2.0-litre G20 DF petrol engine had double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 10.5:1.

Both engines were available with six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions.

Dimensions and suspension

The C200 Korando was 4410 mm long, 1830 mm wide, 1675 mm tall and had a 2650 mm wheelbase; ground clearance was 182 mm. Furthermore, the Korando had MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.

AWD system

In normal conditions, the C200 Korando’s all-wheel system directed all of the engine’s drive to the front wheels. In the event that traction was lost, however, an electronically-controlled coupling could be activated to direct up to 50 per cent of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. The on-demand all-wheel drive system also included a ‘lock’ mode which provided a 50:50 front:rear torque split for speeds below 35 km/h.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the C200.I Korando included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants), ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control (with Ssangyong’s ‘Active Rollover Protection’), traction control, hill start assist, electronic stability control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Features

Standard features for the Korando S included 16-inch alloy wheels (including a full-size spare), a six speaker sound system with USB connectivity and Bluetooth streaming, air conditioning, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, a height adjustable driver’s seat, an electrochromatic rear view mirror, 12 volt power outlet, trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser.

The Korando SX was further equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, climate control air conditioning, front fog lamps, vanity mirrors, a rear cargo cover and cargo net.

The range-topping Korando SPR added 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, heated front seats, power adjustable driver’s seat, rear parking sensors, power folding door mirrors, power sunroof and a rear spoiler.

Brochure

• Brochure: Ssangyong C200.I Korando (April 2013)

Review: Ssangyong C200.II Korando (2014-16)

Overview

Released in Australia in May 2014, the C200 Series II (C200.II) Korando introduced a simplified range that consisted of front-wheel drive S variants that were powered by 2.0-litre petrol engines and all-wheel SX variants powered by 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engines. In December 2014, however, SX variants with 2.0-litre petrol engines were introduced.

Visually, the C200.II Korando could be identified by its revised front mask with squared-off headlights, black-mesh grille and wider low-level air intake; at the rear, there were new tail-light clusters. Inside, the C200.II Korando had a redesigned dashboard with soft-touch materials.

Other changes for the C200.II Korando included new reinforced engine mounting brackets to reduce engine noise and new rubber bushes for the car’s reinforced sub frames to reduce vibrations.

Safety equipment

Compared to its C200.I predecessor, safety equipment for the Ssangyong C200.II Korando was unchanged.

Features

Standard features for the Ssangyong Korando S included 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/60 R17 tyres, a six speaker sound system with MP3-compatibility and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod), air conditioning, leather seats, heated front seats, cruise control, front and rear fog lights, rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, 60:40 split rear seats, remote central locking, power windows, power adjustable and heated door mirrors with retracting function, a height adjustable driver’s seat, a tilt adjustable steering wheel, illuminated vanity mirrors, an anti-glare rear view mirror, carpet mats, rear privacy glass, a luggage cover and net, silver roof rails, trip computer, an immobiliser and alarm.

The Korando SX was further equipped with climate control air conditioning, heated rear seats, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers.

Related links

• Specifications: Ssangyong C200.II Korando (February 2014)
• Ssangyong Australia: Ssangyong Korando
• Wikipedia.org: Ssangyong C200 Korando

Overview

Released in January 2004, the Ssangyong Mk.3 Korando was a three-door, four-wheel drive SUV that was available as either a hardtop or soft-top. Manufactured in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, the Korando was powered by a 2.9-litre turbo-diesel five-cylinder engine that was mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. The part-time four-wheel drive system could be engaged electronically, while low-range gearing could be engaged via a rotary switch on the dashboard.

OM662 diesel engine

The 2.9-litre OM662 turbo-diesel engine was designed by Mercedes-Benz but manufactured by Ssangyong under license. As such, the diesel engine had a cast iron block, indirect injection, a single overhead camshaft, two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 22.0:1.

Dimensions and suspension

Designed by Ken Greenly, the Korando was 4330 mm long, 1841 mm wide, 1840 mm tall and had a 2480 mm long wheelbase. The Korando’s independent front suspension utilised double wishbones and torsion bars, while the five-link live rear axle had coil springs.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Ssangyong Mk.3 Korando was limited to a driver’s airbag.

Features

Standard featured for the Ssangyong Mk.3 Korando included 15-inch steel wheels with 255/70 R15 tyres, a four speaker sound system, central locking, power mirrors and windows, a tilt and reach adjustable steering wheel, side steps and an immobiliser.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Ssangyong Mk.3 Korando