SsangYong Korando: prices and specifications

Model Overview

SsangYong Korando is the first crossover of the South Korean brand, built on a unibody with front-wheel drive. The model name stands for "Korea Can Do."

The first car with this name was released in 1983 and was a reworked version of the Jeep, which SsangYong sent to Japan, and from 1988 to Europe as well. After that, two more generations of body-on-frame compact SUVs were produced (from 1996 to 2004 and from 2004 to 2010), which were also called Korando in export markets.

Work on the modern crossover — the company's first front-wheel-drive car with a unibody — began in 2007. Two years later, the production version was introduced, initially named SsangYong C200. Later, management decided to return the historic name Korando, although on the Russian market the model is sold as Actyon New. The design was developed by the Italdesign studio under the direction of Giorgetto Giugiaro. The new Korando lacks the angularity and sharp forms characteristic of other models of the brand.

The Ukrainian premiere took place in January 2011, and in February the car appeared at dealers. Even the base version includes heated front seats and mirrors, air conditioning, and cruise control.

Initially, on the Ukrainian market, the Korando was offered only with a 2.0-liter turbodiesel and all-wheel drive. Since 2012, deliveries of the front-wheel-drive version with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine equipped with a CVVT variable valve timing system began. The engines are paired with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission with manual shifting.

History

Production of SUVs under the name Korando began in 1983 by Geohwa. In 1985, Geohwa was bought by Dong-A Motor, the predecessor of SsangYong. In 1986, SsangYong Group acquired Dong-A Motor, after which the company was renamed SsangYong Motor Company. Exports to Japan began then, and to Europe from 1988. The first generation Korando was a licensed copy of the Jeep CJ-7. There was also an extended nine-seat version, the K9 Korando. Production of the first generation ended in 1996.

Another car with the same name was sold only in South Korea, Southeast Asian countries, and a little in South America. It was a copy of the Isuzu Trooper.

The first Korandos were equipped with a diesel engine from the Isuzu Trooper, later with a 2.3 L diesel from Mercedes-Benz.

The second generation was produced from 1997 to 2006. The car was offered in two variants: station wagon and convertible. There were two diesel and three gasoline models to choose from. The top version was equipped with a six-cylinder 3.2 L gasoline engine (212 hp) and an automatic transmission. Other modifications had either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. All-wheel drive — with a part-time front axle and low-range gear. The top trim had permanent all-wheel drive with a center differential and low-range gear.

The Korando was equipped with ABS and a rear self-locking differential. The base included two airbags and air conditioning. The car is five-seat, but most comfortable for four. Payload capacity is 600 kg, trailer weight up to 3.5 t. In 2000, two SsangYong models, Korando and Musso, were produced under the Daewoo brand and differed in modified headlights, grille, and logo.

Engines produced under license from Mercedes-Benz were offered in two gasoline and two diesel variants:

• 2.3 L, gasoline, 140–143 hp (MB M161)
• 3.2 L, gasoline, 210–212 hp (MB M162)
• 2.3 L, diesel, turbo, 101 hp (MB OM661)
• 2.9 L, diesel, 95–98 hp (MB OM662)
• 2.9 L, diesel, turbo, 120 hp (MB OM662)

In January 2008, the SsangYong Korando began production in Russia under the name TagAZ Tager. Production was established in Taganrog. In 2009, a five-door version, the TagAZ Tager 5D, appeared.

The third generation was introduced and went on sale in Ukraine in 2010. This is a completely new development of the company, considered the main competitor of the Hyundai ix35 and Kia Sportage. In Russia, the model is sold as the SsangYong New Actyon. The car can be front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed E-Tronic automatic. All cars for the Ukrainian market are assembled using the CKD method from Korean components.

Exterior

The latest generation Korando is a modern compact crossover whose interior volume has not suffered due to its size. The design combines smooth lines and sharp edges, and inflated forms add masculinity. The front bumper has become more aggressive due to large openings in the lower false grille.

Optionally available are 19-inch wheels, standard are 17-inch, and in the cheapest versions — 16-inch.

Interior

The second and third generations of Korando are completely different cars. The third generation has a unibody, no frame, so the seating position is more car-like. The interior design is close to classic, although executed in modern trends. All controls are standardized in location and algorithm with other familiar cars. The seats are very comfortable — a person of any build will find a comfortable position. The rear bench has enough space for three passengers, even on long journeys.

Engine and Transmission

After updating the powertrains, the company focused on the diesel engine. On the Ukrainian market, the Korando is offered with a 2.0 L e-XDi200 diesel engine with 175 hp (360 Nm).

Also available is a gasoline version with the same power — 175 hp, but with a torque of 197 Nm. Drive — front or all-wheel, transmissions — 6-speed manual or 6-speed E-Tronic automatic.

Safety

Even in the base version, the Korando has an anti-lock braking system, six airbags, seat belt pretensioners, active headrests, and an electronic stability control system with rollover protection. ESP includes traction control, automatic braking, hill descent control, and emergency brake signal.

Features

The base version of the Korando is available only with front-wheel drive, but its equipment includes ABS, multimedia controls on the steering wheel, heated front seats, headlight leveling, central locking, immobilizer, front airbags, heat-insulating glass with factory tinting, and full power accessories.

The car is pleasant to drive and does not yield to European brands.

Popularity in Ukraine

The Korando sells well on the Ukrainian market.

According to the autoportal.ua rating, it is in the TOP-30 among all cars and in the TOP-5 among small crossovers.

Our Verdict

The SsangYong Korando is one of the best offers in terms of price-quality ratio. Economical engines and low operating costs allow you to maintain the car for little money. There are no complaints about the quality of Korean cars assembled in Ukraine.