Ssangyong Korando 2011 – A Review
Over recent years competition in the SUV market has never been fiercer and it is in this environment that Ssangyong have released the new Ssangyong Korando into the Australian market.
The release of the Korando is Ssangyong’s first all new model in over three years, and let’s be honest up until now Ssangyong really has not set the world alight.
The Korando is to be marketed in the compact SUV sector and the expectations are high that its release will redefine the Ssangyong brand.
In an attempt to achieve this, Ssangyong sought the experience of Italian design studio Giugiaro. The result is a significant shift by Ssangyong to more mainstream, practical design incorporating modern lines with a strong international presence.
Along with a new design the Korando is complemented by an all new two-litre turbocharged diesel engine delivering 129 kW of power and 360Nm of torque and a fuel efficiency of between 6.1 litres and 7.5 litres per hundred kilometres.
The Korando will be available in either a six speed manual or a six speed automatic which is Australian designed and built.
As with the competitors the Korando will be available in either all wheel drive or front wheel drive depending on model chosen.
The model variants will be available namely:
- The entry level S which will be two wheel drive with a choice of either manual or automatic transmissions.
- The SX is an All Wheel Drive with a choice of manual and automatic transmissions,
- The top of the line SPR will feature All Wheel Drive with automatic transmission.
It is envisaged that the Korando’s target market will be young couples and young parents aged 25 to 40 who are seeking a cost effective, fuel efficient and safe vehicle.
Interior styling has been important in the new Korando with either cloth or leather trim depending on the model. With the target market in mind ample storage has been provided in the form of map pockets, storage hooks, bottle holders and other storage compartments. To maximise storage the Korando also incorporates 60/40 split folding seats. In an attempt to differentiate from the competition Korando comes standard with power windows, cruise control, air-conditioning, trip computer and a state of the art AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with USB connectivity and audio streaming Bluetooth with six speakers. From a safety perspective all models feature ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution, Electronic Stability Program, Brake Assist Program and Hill Start Assist. In terms of air bags all models have six air bags comprising dual front air bags, side airbags and curtain airbags.
Pricing for the Korando will be competitive with the entry level selling for a reported $27,990 and the top of the line just a shade under $37,000.
Ssangyong is hanging its hat on the Korando in strengthening the brand in Australia with Ssangyong Australia’s national sales and marketing manager, Steven Thomas, recognising that the Korando is the most important car in the history of the marquee and if his predictions are correct the Korando will prove to be the power of attraction that draws people into Ssangyong showrooms around the country.
Will it succeed?
Only time will tell but what is certain is that Ssangyong have thrown their all at delivering a product which has all the right ingredients.
The new Ssangyong Korando will hit the showrooms in March 2011.
For further information: www.ssangyong.com.au
Category: Reviews
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