The new SsangYong Rexton SUV has debuted at the Seoul Motor Show in Korea.
Retaining the name applied to SsangYong’s original large SUV, the new Rexton will become the flagship model line in the SsangYong range. It was effectively first revealed as the LIV-2 concept, unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in September 2016.
The new Rexton measures up at 4850mm long, 1920mm wide and 1800mm high, on a 2865mm wheelbase. This makes it a larger vehicle than the Hyundai Santa-Fe, which is regarded by many as the Rexton’s main rival.
Brand identity
The exterior look follows SsangYong’s latest ‘Nature-born 3 Motion’ design language. Notable elements include the ‘spread-wing’ radiator grille and the lines on the flanks that rise towards the rear bumper.
Both these elements were first seen on the smaller Tivoli and both are set to be a feature of all future models from SsangYong to create a recognisable brand identity.
The new Rexton also features various elements designed to give it a more upmarket appearance, including the availability of 20-inch wheels, daytime running lights and LED fog, side and indicator lights.
Prime powertrain option will be a 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine combined with a seven-speed automatic transmission sourced from Mercedes-Benz. A 2.0-litre petrol unit will also be available with a six-speed auto ‘box.
Smart all-wheel-drive will be fitted, operating in rear-wheel format under normal road conditions, but offering four-wheel traction when required with high and low ratios.
Extensive safety specification
SsangYong says that the Rexton will be one of the safest cars in its class, with a package encompassing nine airbags including a knee bag for the driver and rear side bags.
Driver assistance systems include Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection and a Front Vehicle Start Alarm. 3D Around View Monitoring will also be available.
Technology features heavily on the new SsangYong Rexton, the navigation and infotainment system operated through a 9.2-inch screen and offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Also available are auto door locking, a driver’s seat that automatically adjusts when the door is opened, dual-zone fully-auto air conditioning and a tailgate that opens when the key is held next to it.
The new model will go on sale first in Korea in the first half of 2017 as the G4 Rexton, while UK sales will begin before the end of the year.
Prices are yet to be announced but industry observers suggest they will start from under £30,000. If confirmed they will combine with the feature-rich specification to make the new SsangYong Rexton highly competitive in its market.
