You’d be forgiven for thinking SsangYong had been on a sabbatical for the past few years. In fact, the Koren manufacturer has been sitting on the sidelines in world markets for the past five. The company has travelled a rocky road recently, having been placed into receivership in 2009 after recording a $75.42 million loss. However, like their tough-natured vehicles, SsangYong is slowly making its way back onto a smoother path under the wing of its new parent company, Mahindra, and the new Korando looks set to spearhead SsangYong’s recovery.
Developed and designed in partnership with renowned stylist Giorgetto Giugiaro, SsangYong has focused on infusing the new Korando with quality and desirability. A radical departure from what we’ve come to expect from Ssangong’s designers, it would seem Giugiaro has kissed the old frog-of-a-Korando and turned the new one into a prince. The new Korando is the first SsangYong to feature a monocoque body structure, which the exterior design echoes in its solid and integral appearance. The high bonnet line, bold air intake, flared wheel arches and masculine shoulder line, all serve to endow the new Korando with a character that should see it appeal to South Africa’s SUV-loving masses.
The Korando’s interior has been crafted to achieve comfort and practicality. Standard equipment includes leather covered seats, a 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, reclining rear seats with a 60:40 split layout, cruise control, radio/CD/MP3-player with USB and aux-in connections, to mention a few. Hard wearing plastics impart a feeling of durability, while the switchgear follows a logical layout. The dark shades of the interior are interspersed with silver and chrome highlights, giving the cabin a modern feel. The cabin also offers a number of convenient storage areas, as well as a hook located in the front passenger footwell for securing the odd shopping bag.
The SsangYong Korando rides on an all-new platform that is said to provide ride and handling characteristics close to that of a conventional road car. McPherson struts up front and multi-link rear suspension promise comfort and control, but a firm ride and hollow steering don’t match expectations created by the composed exterior. However, the launch route near Pretoria was fairly bumpy and the road surface peppered with potholes that, in all likelihood, would agitate most of this compact-SUV’s competitors too.
Another all-new component for the Korando is its diesel engine. No longer a Mercedes-sourced unit, the 2.0-litre turbocharged unit incorporates the latest technology to achieve Euro-5 emissions regulations, as well as being adaptable to future Euro-6 rules. The e-XDi200 engine features third generation common-rail fuel-injection, E-EGR (Electric Exhaust Gas Recirculation), swirl control valve and CDPF (Catalysed Diesel Particulate Filter). The result is combined cycle fuel economy of 6.1 L/100km and CO2 emissions of only 159 g/km. The maximum power output of 130 kW and 360 N.m. of torque means it is one of the most powerful engines in its class and does not leave the Korando wanting for pace. Drive is sent to the front-wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission that provides an accurate shift action.
With many Korando buyers likely to have a young family, the addition of the international standard ISOFIX car seat mounting system is a notable feature to the new compact-SUV, allowing child seats to be installed easily and securely when required. The Korando comes standard with a driver and front passenger airbag, as well as an active head restraint system that detects a rear-end impact and instantly moves the front head restraints forwards and upwards to reduce potential neck injuries. ABS and EBD systems are also present, ensuring the best braking and traction possible in emergency situations.
In our fast-paced world it’s very difficult, if not impossible, to make up for lost time. With the new Korando, however, it seems SsangYong is right back up to speed and poised to step from the sidelines onto the compact-SUV playing field, with the likes of Hyundai’s iX35, the Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai.
The Korando is currently available in a front-wheel drive and manual transmission configuration, but the range will expand in June when an automatic transmission and four-wheel drive will be introduced.
| Pricing | |
| SsangYong Korando 2.0 CRD 4×2 M/T | R294 995 |
Pricing includes a 3-year/100 000km factory warranty, as well as a 5-year/105 000km service plan and road-side assistance.
