SsangYong was in Scotland today showing off its new model SUV, the Korando, and what an impressive compact SUV this is. The Korean car maker has had a difficult time over recent years, but Indian car firm Mahindra & Mahindra has taken a majority stake in the company so its future looks more assured. And given the quality feel and build of the new Korando, it will inject some confidence into the brand.
The new Korando is a much more refined machine than its predecessor and just like Kia with the Sportage and Hyundai with its i35, SsangYong has pulled up its troosers to take on the European market.
Starting from £16,995 for the entry level 2WD model, prices go up to £22,995 for the 4WD top-spec car with 6 speed automatic ‘box, and it comes not just with a 5 year warranty, but also a 5 year ‘limitless mileage’ warranty!
Whereas the bigger engined Rexton 4x4 uses a 2.7 litre Mercedes-Benz engine and gearbox, the Euro-5 two litre job and six speed ‘box in the Korando is SangYong’s own, and all the more impressive for that.
From Glenskirlie I drove the Korando over the ‘Tak Ma Doon’ road from Kilsyth to the Carron Valley Reservoir and it soaked up the bumps and dips admirably well. It’s not the fastest thing in the world and the gearbox had to work the engine hard on some of the steeper bits, but overall this is an entirely likeable addition to the ‘crossover’ market.
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