by Chris Jefferies
In recent years, Korean cars have come to be recognised as a byword for great value and reliable towing ability, and now there’s a new name to add to the list.
Following in the footsteps of Kia, Hyundai and Daewoo is SsangYong, which has recently relaunched its range of heavy-duty motors, including an appearance at last month’s NCC Motorhome & Caravan Show.
The three-model range includes the Rodius people carrier and the beefy Rexton 4×4, but the most interesting (and certainly the most attractive) is the Korando crossover.
Towcar buyers will surely be tempted by the generous towing limit of 2,000kg, which is twinned with an affordable price tag of under £17,000 for the front-wheel drive version and £21,445 for the four-wheel drive variant.
As well as its compatriots the Hyundai ix35 and the Kia Sportage, the Korando will also have to compete with some popular Japanese rivals such as the Mitsubishi ASX and the Nissan Qashqai, which is one of the best-selling cars in the UK at the moment.
To help crack the European market, SsangYong has hired Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro to style the Korando and the result is certainly pleasing on the eye.
With a sculpted front end and streamlined roof complimenting the elevated ride height, this certainly looks every inch as attractive as the competition.
Pulling power
When it comes to towing, it’s clear that the Korean have kept caravanners firmly in mind – as they claim that the Korando’s monocoque chassis allows for safe towing up to almost 100% of its two-tonne gross vehicle weight.
Those sticking to the more traditional 85% kerb weight rule can comfortably tow 1,400kg of tourer behind them. Meanwhile a five-year limitless mileage warrantee makes for added peace of mind.
There are three trims levels to choose from (S, ES and EX), with the entry-level Korandos featuring cruise control, Hill Start Assist and reverse parking sensors as standard, while the top-end versions come with a sunroof, climate control, leather upholstery and heated front and rear seats.
A detachable Witter towbar (complete with electrics) can be added an optional extra for £602 and there are seven body colours to choose from, but no matter what you pick, the price remains on the right side of £24,000.
SsangYong may be a new name to many British caravanners, but it won’t be for long, with this appealingly affordable range due to make a big impression in 2012.
The SsangYong Korando has been nominated for the CaravanTimes Top Towcar of 2011 award. To vote for your favourite tourer, caravan park and dealer, and be entered into our prize draw to win an Amazon Kindle, click here.
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