Overview
- Sharp styling
- Well-equipped as standard
- Spacious interior
- Interior lacks refinement
- Body rolls around corners
- Noisy engine
What's the SsangYong Korando like?
Korean car maker SsangYong might not be as well-known in the UK as Kia and Hyundai, but their 4x4s and crossovers have been around here since the nineties.
There was a 3-door 4x4 called Korando in the late nineties, but the company reused the name in 2011 for a new crossover SUV, competing with the likes of the Nissan Qashqai.
Engines
The SsangYong Korando is a good-looking 5-seat SUV, and the engine option is easy because there are only two. The 2.0-litre turbo diesel producing 150bhp will be found in most models, but there's also a 2.2-litre with 175bhp used in a few with higher specification.
The majority sold in this country have been front-wheel drive as is the norm with most other SUVs these days – fitted with the 2.0-litre engine, and this helps towards an economy average of 47mpg in the government figures. That’s likely to give a real driving average of 35 to 40mpg.
There are some with four-wheel drive (4WD), so if you need mud-plugging or extra winter traction, make sure you have it.
Gearboxes are either 6-speed manual or automatic. The manual can be a little notchy, but the auto is pretty good, and suits the vehicle well.
The engine is quite noisy until it’s up to cruising speed, but it has plenty of pulling power for good acceleration, and the maximum towing weight is an excellent two tonnes. It has enough grunt to give 0 to 60mph in 10.0 seconds.
Driving Experience and Practicality
As with many SUVs, there's a fair amount of roll in the corners, so it’s not a good idea to push it too hard, and there's also little feel from the steering which doesn’t instil confidence.
Comfort is fair in town and out on the open road, but the roly-poly feel can get a little wearing at times. However, supportive seats require little adjustment to find a decent driving position.
All products from the Korean firm have a 5-year, unlimited mileage warranty, so buying one should transfer the remainder to you if it's less than five years old.
Safety is covered by six airbags and traction control, but roadholding is not up to the best in class, with a distinct lack of grip when pushed a too hard.
Inside, there's plenty of head and legroom front and rear, and the boot gives an excellent 466 litres of load space with the folding rear seats up.
Peter Hayward
Equipment
EX models come with parking sensors, audio remote control, reach and height adjustable steering, height adjustable driver’s seat, cruise control, alarm, climate control, and heated seats.
Upper models add sat nav, leather upholstery, and electric front seats.
Find your SsangYong Korando your way with CarStore
The SsangYong Korando proves to be a cost-effective family-friendly SUV that that offers a lot for your money. The Korando may not be the most common sight on British roads, but it's a great choice for those looking a unique alternative with style, practicality, and tons of standard equipment.
Here at CarStore, you're able to buy your car your way. Whether that be online, in-person, or a mix of both, the choice is yours. With an extensive variety of used cars available, we're sure to have a car that suits your lifestyle.
