2020 SsangYong Korando Review: A Modern Compact Crossover SUV

Introduction

The Korando nameplate first emerged in early 1983 and is recognized as South Korea’s longest-running model. Currently under the ownership of the Indian auto giant Mahindra & Mahindra, SsangYong is one of Korea's largest automakers. Over its lifetime, the SsangYong Korando has undergone several changes, with the latest being its fourth generation. The compact crossover SUV market in the UAE is booming, and smaller OEMs like SsangYong have to work hard to compete with major players.

2020 SsangYong Korando Overview

To effectively compete, SsangYong unveiled the all-new 2020 Korando. This latest incarnation made its global debut earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show. The new Korando sits between the smaller Tivoli and the larger, more expensive Rexton. Built on a modified version of the marque’s X100 architecture, the 2020 SsangYong Korando faces off against segment leaders like the Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, and Korean rival Kia Sportage.

Exterior Design

SsangYong has significantly improved the designs of its vehicles in recent years. The 2020 Korando is a crossover SUV that captures attention for all the right reasons. Up front, it features a streamlined grille with the carmaker’s new ‘bird's wing’ chrome strip. This, combined with sleek LED headlamps, triple-stacked LED fog lamps, and a sculpted hood, gives the Korando a smart and sophisticated appearance.

Notable Exterior Features

• Prominent creases and contours along the sides
• Black cladding throughout
• Modern ‘floating’ design on the chunky C-pillar
• Distinctive roof rails
• Five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels
• Stylish LED tail lamps
• Large roof spoiler and fake air diffuser/exhausts

The 2020 SsangYong Korando measures 4.450 meters in length, 1.870 meters in width, 1.620 meters in height, and has a wheelbase of 2.675 meters, with an overall boot space of 551 liters.

Interior Features

The interior of the 2020 SsangYong Korando reflects significant advancements in build quality, fit-and-finish, and material choices. It boasts a modern, upscale look, enhanced by the marque’s new ‘Blaze Cockpit’ treatment, featuring:

• Customizable mood lighting options
• 9-inch touch-infotainment screen
• 10.25-inch digital instrument panel for the driver

The cabin feels spacious, comfortably accommodating five occupants. Depending on the trim level, the Korando can come equipped with:

• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• GPS navigation
• Powered tailgate
• Automatic headlamps & wipers
• Electronic handbrake
• Dual-zone climate control
• Leather upholstery
• All-around parking sensors with rearview camera

Engine and Performance

The 2020 SsangYong Korando is powered by a new 1.5-liter turbo-four petrol engine that delivers 160hp and 280Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed Aisin-sourced automatic transmission that drives all four wheels. This engine is designed for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in about 10 seconds. The Korando 1.5T GDI (with AWD) can achieve a commendable fuel economy of 7.5 L/100 km on a combined cycle.

Verdict

If previous concerns about purchasing SsangYong models deterred you, the 2020 Korando is a significant improvement. It offers modern features, a well-built cabin, an efficient engine, and a stylish design, making it a compelling option in the crossover SUV segment.