Details published last month explained how the new structure at SsangYong was to ensure the continuation of sales throughout the UK. At the Frankfurt Show, this was further enhanced when details were revealed about the forthcoming Korando which is available in the UK now, with prices for the 4×4 models starting at £21,445.
Designed in Europe by Giugiaro, the Korando has a two tonne towing capability and SsangYong claim that the pricing and comprehensive specification gives the all-new Korando best in class value compared with cars such as the Hyundai ix35, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi ASX and Nissan Qashqai. Much emphasis is being placed on the work done by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Ital Design and they claim the all-new SsangYong Korando will have “highly competent off-road handling with on-road refinement”.
The new Korando has a choice of trim levels, two gearboxes and the option of either front or four-wheel drive. All models are powered by a 173bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 360Nm of torque with CO2 emissions from only 157g/km. It has an on demand four-wheel drive system which constantly monitors the level of grip available and distributes power to the wheels that need it most.
Under normal driving conditions 100 per cent of the engine’s torque is driving the front wheels, however, if the front tyres begin to lose traction, power is fed to the rear wheels to ensure safe, stable and dependable progress is resumed with grip to all four wheels. A diff lock allows for a 50/50 spread of torque between the front and rear wheels at speeds up to 25mph.
