Motors

Ssurprising Ssangyong

Issue 29

For many car buyers, SsangYong is a new name, but one thing is clear from customer feedback; once you've experienced a SsangYong, you'll discover why the marque is finding an army of new followers.

Buyers go back for more because the cars are reliable, comfortable, great value, well equipped, economical, have terrific 5-year unlimited mileage warranties and do exactly what the buyers expect. The model which made everyone take serious notice of SsangYong, is the Tivoli. It has been has been a massive hit. Yes it is incredible value for money, tough and durable, and with a 5-year warranty, but it is also extremely comfortable, smartly styled and good to drive. In terms of kit, and this is typical of the SsangYong range, on the entry level EX Tivoli you get air con, tinted glass, height adjustable driver’s seat, keyless entry, electric windows and mirrors, cruise control, tyre pressure monitor and a cracking audio system. Wow. Remember, that’s the entry level model. With Tivoli prices starting at £13,300 or £17,000 for the extended version, other manufacturers can’t get close. Power comes from 1.6 litre petrol or diesel engines. You can opt for manual or auto ‘boxes and you can have 4-wheel drive as long as you opt for diesel power. As is generally the case, go for petrol if you prefer quiet, refined motoring.

If you prefer economy in the region of 65 mpg, go for the diesel. If you need more space yet still want terrific value for money, take a glance further up the SsangYong range. The Rexton is the latest SsangYong to be given a thorough working over. This new version is on a different planet when compared to the outgoing model. SsangYong said in their Rexton media info; “More presence. More prestige. More strength. More safety. More style. More space. Styled inside and out with graceful detailing that compliments it’s rugged off-road capability, it looks and feels like a game-changer.” Nuff said. Everything else about the new 7-seat Rexton SUV is typically SsangYong; terrific value, starting at £27,500, 5-year warranty, excellent off-road ability and feels really solid. The Korando, which kicks off at £15,495, has built a fine reputation as a 4×4 for towing. It comes with a choice of powerful 2.2 litre diesel or petrol engines that also have a decent turn of speed, reaching 60mph in around 10 seconds. The diesel in particular has a mass of low-end power to help keep heavy loads on the move. A 2.2 litre diesel engine can also powers the latest Musso pick-up truck which starts at £16,396 exVAT. It comes with a hugely impressive 1 tonne payload and 3.5 tonne towing capacity. It’s a handsome beast too and will be perfectly happy either dragging a horsebox across a soggy field, collecting a bale of hay, or towing a boat to the Lake District.

If you and six passengers prefer to ride around in the lap of luxury, then the Ssangyong Turismo should be on your shopping list. With prices starting from £19,750 if you want as much space as possible then nothing comes near the Turismo unless you buy a long wheelbase van. Even with seven people on board, the boot space is still large enough to take all of their luggage. Drop the seats and you can climb in and go for a walk! SsangYong is promising to launch a new model every single year. They are a company to watch. The best idea is to go along to your local dealer. They’ll show you the entire range and find a SsangYong to suit to your needs. You’ll be Ssurprised by SsangYong.

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