The South Korean utility vehicle maker Ssangyong has big plans for the UK market. Ssangyong Motor UK has announced that it will introduce the new Korando Sports utility pick-up this autumn. The vehicle was first presented as SUT-1 (sport utility) concept at international motor shows in 2011, and in production ready form at this year’s Geneva Motor show. Indian auto major Mahindra & Mahindra owns majority stake in Ssangyong.
Ssangyong says that Korando Sports will appeal to those who need a working vehicle, the practicality of 4 wheel drive, the towing capability to haul up to 2.3 tons and yet have the feel of a family car. Whether towing a work trailer or horsebox, ferrying the crew to site or the children to school, the Korando Sports boasts of meeting a range of different demands. “This is more a passenger car with pick-up versatility,” said Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK. “Consequently, it offers refinements that few of our competitors can match. SsangYong has a growing reputation for building extremely competent off-road vehicles, and the new Korando Sports draws on this pedigree. It’s an honest, reliable and highly capable vehicle yet extremely well equipped, and pound for pound will outclass many more expensive rivals,” he mentioned.
Steve Gray, Marketing and Communications Director added, “To be able to launch an all-new model into the UK so soon after the Korando crossover is great news for us as the importer and our rapidly expanding dealer network, but more importantly for the growing number of motorists who increasingly appreciate the value of the SsangYong brand. The price of the new pick-up will be announced at its launch in October, and as you would expect from SsangYong, it will be extremely competitive.”
Korando Sports is powered by the latest e-XDi active diesel engine. This new 2 liter engine provides maximum power of 155PS and peak torque of 360Nm delivered between 1,500rpm and 2,800rpm, providing ample performance, both on and off road. There are two models in the range, while the SX is already comprehensively equipped; the EX comes with the luxury touch of leather upholstery with seat warmers, powered driver’s seat, distinctive 18” alloy wheels, heated, electrically adjustable and power folding door mirrors, and rear parking sensors. Six speed automatic transmission with cruise control option is also available.
