Like the smartphones we use, the modern automobile has evolved into a complex machine with numerous functions, many of which most drivers will hardly utilise. Two decades ago, the most advanced accessories in a vehicle were probably the CD player and a remote locking/unlocking system. Today, cars have features such as parallel parking aids and radar-assisted cruise control – functions that are amazing, but can be scary to use.
This is exactly why we petrolheads still love getting behind the wheel of a simpler vehicle. Without the need to learn how all these modern conveniences work, the focus can shift back to enjoying the drive. I might sound (and be) old-fashioned, but being able to parallel-park without relying on a computer still gives me a sense of great accomplishment.
Perhaps Korean brand SsangYong had simplicity in mind when it created the new Korando crossover featured here. Compared to its oddball predecessor (see sidebar), this third-generation model has more cohesive styling with no bizarre elements whatsoever. In fact, the only feature that stands out is its enormous, shiny chrome grille. This stylishness is all thanks to Italdesign Giugiaro, the company founded by renowned automotive designer Giorgetto Giugiaro.
It’s a different story once you’ve climbed aboard, however, because the designer looks aren’t replicated inside. The cockpit’s layout is rather simple and wouldn’t look out of place in, say, a Toyota Corolla Altis. The overall feel, though, is plasticky and unyielding. Thankfully, there’s still gentleness in the way the glovebox opens as well as the manner in which the grab handles retract.
The seats are stiff, but taller occupants will definitely like the generous headroom available.
The simple dashboard also means that there aren’t any new “toys” to play with. Features like an automatically dimming rear view mirror, and a hi-fi unit with Bluetooth and USB connectivity are pretty common in new cars these days. More important to buyers, though, is the fact that the air-con system is so devastatingly effective that it can make a sunny day seem like a wintry one.
Equally fantastic are the spacious rear seats, which are complemented by the flat floor. Four average-sized adults could easily fit back here thanks to the excellent legroom and foot space. The rear bench can also be folded flat to expand the boot’s capacity – a useful tool given the fact that there isn’t much storage space for passengers’ loose items.
The boot is well packaged, but its loading height is more suited to users 1.8m in height.
Surprisingly decent, on the other hand, is how the Korando drives. Now while the steering might feel vague at expressway speeds, the car’s body feels taut and admirably resists body roll. The ride quality, which is noticeably on the stiff side, also helps with this crossover’s cornering ability.
In need of improvement, however, is the Korando’s 2-litre petrol motor. With just 149bhp and 197Nm peaking at 6000rpm and 4000rpm respectively, you’ll need plenty of revs to make any progress. Not surprisingly, SsangYong claims an official (and very credible) century dash time of 14.6 seconds.
Korando’s 2-litre unit needs plenty of revs to get going and sounds workmanlike above 3000rpm.
If you’re looking for more muscle, the Korando can also be had with a 2-litre turbo-diesel engine, which is good for 175bhp and a meatier 360Nm. But performance-wise, the diesel unit isn’t much better – especially in terms of fuel consumption. SsangYong claims that the diesel-powered model covers 13.7km/L on the combined cycle – that’s just a kilometre further than what this petrol variant manages.
What the Korando is, then, is a good-looking, practical and no-frills crossover. But in the context of high COE premiums and restrictive financing rules, it’s hard to justify paying so much for a vehicle that only offers the bare essentials.
This story was first published in the April 2013 issue of Torque.
2013 SsangYong Korando 2.0 (A)
ENGINE 1998cc, 16-valves, inline-4
MAX POWER 149hp at 6000rpm
MAX TORQUE 197Nm 4000rpm
GEARBOX 6-speed automatic with manual select
0-100KM/H 14.6 seconds
TOP SPEED 165km/h
CONSUMPTION 12.7km/L (combined)
Check out our review of the SsangYong Tivoli here
SsangYong Rexton delivers old-school SUV charm
SsangYong Korando facelifted for 2017
