If rumours are to be believed, South Korea based auto maker Ssangyong is planning to introduce its Korando C model in the Indian auto market by 2014. Riding on the brand reputation of Mahindra & Mahindra, SsangYong is slowly and steadily making a mark in the country. With the expected launch of Korando C, the auto maker will increase product line-up to two with other being already launched Rexton. As claimed by SsangYong, Korando C is a premium Urban Leisure Vehicle (ULV), which is aimed at targeting the masses of urban areas. Recently, the car was launched in European markets and reports of its Indian launch following soon are presently doing the rounds.
As reported, the new Korando C boasts of a sportier design that goes in hand with its stylish exterior. As seen in the global version of Korando C, the car will be offered with projector headlamps, LED positioned lights, body coloured grille and a restructured rear. With the launch of Korando C in prominent markets, SsangYong is pinning hopes on the success of this model, expecting it to set a benchmark in the SUV segment for other to follow in the Indian auto market. As told by sources, the upcoming model of the company will be available in seven exterior colour options which will include grand white, sunrise red, space black and silent silver.
In a recent interview, Chief Executive Offer of SsangYong Motor Company, Yoo-il Lee was quoted as saying, “The Korando C has been reborn as the New Korando C, with a new innovative style and greater appeal to drivers. I have no doubt that it will be an attractive choice for drivers looking for vehicles for both urban driving and outdoor leisure activities.”
Sources cite that SsangYong has altered interiors of Korando C in order to make it sporty yet comfortable at the same time. The next generation version of Korando C will feature a non-glossy wood grain instrument panel, along with a ventilation system in driver seat to reduce the fatigue. While for features, the car might get a touch screen satellite navigation system, steering mounted audio controls, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), two airbags and an automatic climate control system.
As expected, SsangYong might be offering two engine options in Korando C with one diesel and other petrol. Talking about the specifications of production model meant for European markets, it has been offered in an option of either a manual or automatic transmission systems. The diesel variant is equipped with the e-XDi200 engine that is offered in differently tuned options of 173 bhp and 147 bhp. While for the petrol one, Korando C gets a e-XGi 2-litre engine that generates a peak power of 147 bhp. So for the Indian car market, the same engine options might be rolled out but the availability of an automatic transmission remains doubtful as of now.
In all likelihood, the upcoming car of SsangYong will be produced at Mahindra & Mahindra's Chakan facility. By resorting to this practice, SsangYong would be able to aggressively price its vehicle in a range of Rs. 15 lakh to Rs. 20 lakh. As far as the competition is concerned, Korando C would be pitted against the likes of Chevrolet Captiva, Renault Koleos and Skoda Yeti.
