SsangYong Korando (2020)

Korando's sophisticated climate control system ensures that the cabin environment is comfortable regardless of the weather conditions outside. Pollen and microscopic-sized particulate matter are trapped by the air filter while the air is treated by a cluster ioniser to create a pleasant and pristine cabin environment. When the dual zone full auto air conditioning is selected, the related information is displayed on the 8" or 9" navigation screen. Other features include paddle shift levers (with auto transmission), heated steering wheel with tilt, rake and reach, dual auto climate control and 60/40 rear split seats with ISO FIX.

Driving performance

In step with engine down-sizing seen throughout the industry, the new SsangYong Korando is available with a choice of compact engines characterised by high combustion efficiency, superior power delivery and good fuel economy. Korando is available with either an uprated 1.6 Diesel engine or 1.5 GDI-turbo petrol engine.

The newly developed Euro 6D-T compliant 1.6 litre diesel engine produces 136PS max power and 324Nm max torque delivering a smooth, progressive and powerful driving experience. It's exceptionally durable and fuel efficient, the 1.6 diesel engine is the perfect choice when peak torque performance and fuel economy are a priority. It achieves a CO2 emission level of 144 (NEDC) and fuel economy of up to 48.7mpg on the WLTP combined cycle and achieves 0-62mph in 12.01 seconds.

Later on, Korando will also offer a Euro 6D-T compliant 1.5 GDI-turbo petrol engine which produces 163PS max power with and 280Nm of torque at 1,500-4,500 RPM. The vehicle and full performance stats will be available in the UK from December 2019.

Best-in-class transmission performance and reliability is achieved by applying the latest AISIN 3rd generation six-speed automatic transmission with selectable drive modes. Normal mode balances the need for fuel economy and power, this default mode is utilised for day-to-day driving and is not indicated on the dashboard. Sport mode delivers extra power, whilst Winter mode starts SsangYong Korando in 2nd gear to prevent tyre slippage on icy roads. Non-4x4 models come with an auto-stop system to save fuel and lower CO2. Manual variants will arrive into the UK early 2020.

4WD system

New Korando is available with all-wheel drive, which offers superior driving stability across all types of terrain. Automatic Drive Control controls the speed of each wheel is individually monitored in real-time. If a wheel slip is detected, torque is automatically redistributed to the wheel where it is needed most, thus maximising traction over treacherous roads, and ensuring safer driving. The Lock-Mode Function, unlike Auto-Mode, increases torque delivery to the rear wheels for improved traction and stability. Above 40km/h, the system automatically switches to Auto-Mode and will switch back to Lock-Mode when the speed is reduced to 40km/h or less. Its superior braking system drives control and brake systems to inert-operate which improves traction, stability and safety.

And, new Korando offers generous approach and departure angles too with an approach of 18 degrees and departure angle of 24.5 degrees.

Hi-tech connectivity, technology & equipment

All models feature an advanced infotainment system that includes DAB radio, Bluetooth and MP3 connectivity, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come with the middle and top specification models, as does a rearview reversing camera. Everything is displayed on either a 9.0" screen with Tom Tom navigation on top models or an 8.0" screen on mid spec model. Other features include remote power tailgate on top models and electronic parking brake on automatic variants.

Safety

SsangYong Korando has new technologies and features, ensuring excellent levels of safety, including six airbags on all models. With the high-strength steel construction, the vehicle is stiffer than its competitors, featuring 74% high density steel, which not only gives greatly improved body strength but also reduced weight.

The vehicle boasts Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Active Rollover Protection (ARP), ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane keeping Assist (LKA), Front Vehicle Start Alert (FVSA), Safety Distance Alert (SDA), Driver Attention Alert (DAA), and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS).

Other safety features include an emergency call system, reversing camera, alarm, immobiliser, tyre pressure monitoring system, rain sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, automatic speed sensing door locks, electronic parking brake with auto hold, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, parking aids front and rear and ISO FIX.

Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)

Advanced tools and technologies have been applied to all-new Korando to suppress NVH and it now boasts some of the lowest NVH levels in its class. Its cabin noise at idle is just 44.0dB compared to the Kia Sportage at 45.6dB and its chassis vibration at idle is 95.0Hz versus 97.0 Hz on the Kia Sportage.

In a first for SsangYong, the automaker has used structural adhesives to improve monocoque rigidity, optimising noise and tonal qualities. Double-wide sealer has also been applied with melting-type plugs for improved engine and outside noise levels. Additional front and rear sub-frame mounting points have been added which act as decouplers inside the hydraulic mounts, which maximise noise reduction. Underfloor damping and additional roof paneling have added sound absorbing materials and pillar cavities are filled with a volume of sound absorbing foam - reducing noise and vibrations. Twin dynamic dampers in the rear propeller shaft and a four-point mounting system for the rear axle, also help SsangYong Korando attain best-in-class NVH values.

The line-up

There are four Korando models to choose from. The line-up includes a 1.5 GDI-turbo petrol engine entry model 2WD ELX and a 1.5 GDI-turbo petrol 2WD Ventura, which is mid-specification level. The Pioneer, which has been specifically designed for SsangYong's existing and prospect caravanning customers, is available with a diesel engine and automatic transmission in 2WD and 4WD. The top of the range Ultimate model is available as a petrol 2WD and 4WD or with the 1.6 diesel engine with automatic transmission and 4WD.

SsangYong Korando ELX

The Korando ELX is powered by the 1.5 GDI-turbo petrol engine with manual transmission, available in 2WD only. Finished in a smart woven cloth trim, it includes 17" alloys with all-weather tyres, electronic cruise control, DAB/RDS/Bluetooth radio, six airbags, auto lights and wipers and a range of advanced safety equipment and many more features.

SsangYong Korando Ventura

The Korando Ventura, is powered by the 1.5 GDI-turbo petrol engine with manual transmission, available in 2WD only, adds combined Faux leather with deluxe fabric seat upholstery, 18" diamond cut alloy wheels with standard tyres, heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors, electronic parking brake, 10.25" full LCD cluster, 8" touchscreen with Apple CarPlay / Auto Android, and many more features.

SsangYong Korando Pioneer

The Korando Pioneer, is available the 1.6 diesel engine with automatic transmission, in 2WD and 4WD. Aimed at the caravan and towing market, the Pioneer has a 2-tonne towing capacity, combined Faux leather with deluxe fabric seat upholstery, 17" alloy wheels with all-weather tyres, heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors, heated steering wheel, full sized spare wheel, 3.5" LCD cluster, 8" touchscreen with Apple CarPlay / Auto Android and rear view camera and many more features.

SsangYong Korando Ultimate

The top-spec Korando Ultimate is available in three variants. There is a petrol 2WD derivative available with manual and automatic transmissions or diesel engine and with automatic transmission, in 4WD only. The highest specification model in the Korando range features luxurious soft leather seats throughout (with driver's lumbar support) a dual-zone air conditioning system and a range of advanced safety equipment. Add to this the premium in-car infotainment with a 9" LCD multimedia display with touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android auto, makes a spirited deluxe crossover vehicle at an affordable price. The Ultimate boasts 19" diamond cut alloy wheels, smart keyless start, rear privacy glass, LED multi-focus headlights, 10.25" full digital cluster and mood lighting and a power tailgate.