Ssangyong Korando

Mahindra & Mahindra took world by surprise by buying out South Korean automobile brand, Ssangyong Motor Corporation Limited. The acquisition has paved way for Mahindra & Mahindra's introduction in premium sports utility vehicle segment in India. With this takeover, Mahindra & Mahindra has joined the league of Tata, which also acquired leading automobile brand Land Rover and Jaguar.

Mahindra & Mahindra is all set to roll out Ssangyong Korando, a premium 7-seater SUV in the Indian market. The Korean car maker launched Kornado in the year 1983, which was named by confining, 'Korea Can Do'. This is the fourth generation of the sports utility vehicle, which was initially named as Ssangyong C200 on its relaunch in late 2010. It was loaded with advanced technical capabilities such as 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission and configurations like all-wheel drive. Its name, 'Kornado', was replaced to Actyon for changing brand identity; moreover, the car is being re-designed by Giorgietto Giugiaro.

The concept model of the revived Korando was unveiled at the international automotive event, Frankfurt Motor Show 2011. The latest edition of Korando has a slim profile roof and aggressive front design and elegant coach doors. Moreover, the off-roader is loaded with several technical capabilities to provide an exceptional cruising experience. With this car, the manufacturer will hope to consolidate its position in the market, after the success of Scorpio and initial appreciation of XUV 500.

Engines & Specifications of Ssangyong Korando

The sports utility vehicle, Ssangyong Korando, is assimilated with a powerful 2.0 L turbo-charged diesel engine. Diesel DOHC inline four cylinder engine is complemented by an advanced 6-speed automatic and manual transmission mechanism. The power-packed engine delivers power output of 175 bhp at 4,000 rpm and renders torque of 360 Nm at 2,000-3,000 rpm.

Performance of Ssangyong Korando

Powered by common-rail, high pressure, direct injection fuel system along with Electric Variable Geometry Turbocharger (E-VGT) ensures optimum fuel utilisation in this car. Furthermore, Ssangyong Korando has an excellent suspension that features fully independent, sub-frame mounted MacPherson struts with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers at the front. This suspension arrangement is supported by an anti-roll stabiliser bar. On the other hand, its rear suspension comprises fully independent sub-frame mounted multi-links, coil springs, gas-filled shock absorbers along with anti-roll stabiliser bar.

Exterior, Interior & Safety Features of Ssangyong Korando

The premium sports utility vehicle has sporty exteriors, which stretches 4,410 mm in length and has a width of 1,830 mm. Moreover, Ssangyong Korando has a height of 1,675 mm and a wheelbase of 2,650 mm. Some of the distinguishing exterior features are twin chrome exhaust tips, meshed grille, lower air intake and rear parking sensors. Roof mounted antenna adds to the elegance of this sporty premium luxury SUV.

This interiors of this car include heated side mirrors with safety light, six-speaker audio unit with integrated Bluetooth and phone connectivity. Electronic anti-glare rear view mirror, adjustable seats, auto dimming interior rear view mirror, front wiper with de-icer and metallic accents are noteworthy interior features.

Safety and security issues are well taken care off, featuring several technically advanced capabilities, such as anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), electronic stability program (ESP) and brake assist system. Moreover, additional safety features like hill start assist, active head restraints and active rollover protection has made SUV the most desired in the segment.