SsangYong XIV-1 Concept Comes into the Light

After teasing us with a trio of smoked out artist's renderings a couple of weeks ago, SsangYong has released two new images of the Frankfurt motorshow-bound XIV-1 concept study, this time without the shade effect.

The South Korean automaker, which is now part of India's US$12.5 billion Mahindra Group, supports that the XIV-1 as a "premium crossover utility vehicle (CUV)" designed for the global market.

The new renderings reveal that aside from taking a note or two from Land Rover's book of styling, the Nissan Juke-sized XIV-1 sports B’ Pillarless coach doors and a full-glass roof.

“The ‘XIV-1’ focuses on realizing a future-oriented design based on our heritage, and is based on our product philosophy of ‘Robust, Specialty, and Premium,” said a spokesperson for Ssangyong Motor Company. “We believe that the vehicle, created based on a simple, dynamic and strong aesthetic value, will show the supremacy of our ingenious design,” he added.

Kudos to Spiros for the tip!

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SsangYong Returns to the UK with Brand New Korando SUV

SsangYong is making a comeback to the UK market in September. And its return will be spearheaded by the all-new Korando crossover which has no relation whatsoever with its predecessor.

The newcomer is priced from £16,995 with the Korean company, which is owned by the Indian conglomerate Mahindra & Mahindra, setting its eyes on the likes of the Hyundai ix35, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi ASX and Nissan Qashqai.

The new Korando is the production version of the 2009 C200 Aero Concept designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro’s ItalDesign. It is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine with 175HP and 360 Nm of torque, which emits 157 g of CO2 per km. It will be available in front- and four-wheel-drive versions with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

“Korando is a great value proposition, and it arrives in the highly competitive crossover market at absolutely the right time” commented Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK.

“Very keenly priced, with a comprehensive list of standard equipment, excellent towing ability (two tonne) and, thanks to its long wheelbase, a spacious interior, Korando is the clever choice for families and those who tow a caravan, horsebox or trailer”.

The front-wheel-drive Korando will be available in three trim levels: S and ES with the manual gearbox and EX with the automatic transmission, while the 4WD version will be available only with the top-of-the-line-EX trim.

Standard equipment features across the range includes ESP, Hill Start Assist, cruise control and reverse parking sensors.

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