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Nip 'n tuck for SsangYong Korando

SSsangYong has nipped and tucked its Italian-designed Korando crossover for 2014 - an MPV recognised for value for money, packed with standard equipment, plenty of space and capable of towing two tons.

With the 2014 model's upgrades it could even be a sweeter deal with its five-year (unlimited distance) warranty. The new model is ready to order and will arrive in the UK early in 2014 at the sterling equivalent of R255 600 - SA duties and taxes would have to be added to that figure.

The current (2013) models retail in South Africa from R280 000 to R395 000.

Wheels24 was unable to reach SsangYong South Africa at the time of publishing this article to ask when it will arrive locally.

LIMITLESS MILEAGE WARRANTY

The automaker says the unlimited warranty was “designed to be totally transparent and to give customers complete peace of mind". 

The distance warranty covers all major mechanical components, including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock-absorbers and even the audio system. Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor driving are covered for one year or 20 000km; battery and paintwork for three years.

Under the bonnet is a two-litre Euro 5 engine. The range-topping six-speed ELX4 auto version is turned by an e-XDi200 diesel engine pushing out 130kW at 4000rpm and 360Nm from 2000-3000rpm, the latter the same as the six-speed 110kW e-XDi200 unit.

Styling includes a slimmer black-mesh grille, upgraded headlights and a wider air intake. The new headlights include projection lights and diode daytime running lights surrounded by black and aluminium bezels. The rear lights now use diodes, too. There are redesigned 16” and 17” alloy rims along with three new paint colours including black, white and silver to go with the existing red, blue and grey.

Unfortunately the distinctive design cues of previous Korando models have been subsumed by the designers' desire to conform. Pity.

PACKED WITH GOODIES

There’s a redesigned facia featuring soft-touch materials, wood inserts and many storage compartments, including enlarged cup holders, a cell phone tray and flip-down eyewear tray.

The Korando has a ground clearance of 180mm, approach angle of 22.8 degrees, departure angle off 28.2 degrees and a ramp-over angle of 18.5 degrees, making it a capable off-roader.

Standard safety systems include electronic stability controlled with emergency braking assistance and anti-lock braking, all-wheel drive, hill-start assistance and roll-over protection.

Boot volume is 486 litres seats up, 1312 litres seats folded.
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