► Fourth-gen C-segment SUV
► Electric version on the way
► Loads of standard kit
Ssangyong has unveiled its fourth-generation Korando SUV at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, with an EV version based on the e-SIV concept due in 2020.
For now, however, headlines include a new 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, a suite of safety tech (including standard autonomous emergency braking) and a seven-year, 150,000-mile warranty.
Lower, longer and wider the previous Korando
As well as growing in size over the third-generation model, the new Korando gets a longer wheelbase and a more spacious cabin, along with a far more contemporary exterior design that takes styling cues from the larger Rexton.
Launching in the highly competitive – but potentially lucrative – C-segment SUV market, Ssangyong hopes the Korando will appeal to a wider audience than previous models and offer a serious alternative to European rivals.
Huge levels of standard safety kit
UK equipment levels are yet to be confirmed, yet we do know that all Korandos will come as standard with a suite of high-tech safety kit.
The South Korean manufacturer has a mixed record of Euro NCAP safety ratings, so the fitment of autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, high beam assist, traffic sign recognition and driver attention alert is encouraging.
Equipment that’s likely to be fitted either as standard or available as an option includes a 10.25-inch digital dashboard display, sat-nav, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, front and rear parking sensors and leather upholstery.
New 1.5-litre petrol plus EV version to follow
The Korando will be available with two engines from launch – a 136hp 1.6-litre turbodiesel and a brand-new 163hp 1.5 GDI-turbo petrol unit.
Offering up a two-tonne towing capacity with the six-speed automatic gearbox (a six-speed manual is also available on both engines), the diesel will still be the engine of choice for those wishing to use the Korando as a rough-and-tumble utility vehicle, yet there’s hope that the new petrol will appeal to more mainstream buyers.
Delivering 280Nm of torque from 1,500rpm, CO2 emissions are 146g/km, with 0-62mph and top speeds yet to be confirmed.
Little is known about the EV version at the moment, yet more details will emerge before the car’s launch at some point in 2020.
Anything else I need to know?
Due on sale in mid-2019, the Korando price tag hasn’t been confirmed but we’d expect it to start at just over £20,000 – significantly undercutting many rivals
A-Z of the Geneva motor show 2019 on CAR