C200 concept points to SsangYong's future

In all the hype generated by the likes of the Lamborghini Estoque at this month's Paris motor show, lesser lights like SsangYong barely registered on the motoring media's Richter Scale in the French capital.

However, the Korean SUV specialist used the Paris show to reveal undoubtedly its most significant vehicle in recent years, the C200 concept, which is said to be a pointer to its future design direction.

The design study follows in the wake of the company's announcement earlier this year, that it plans to introduce 20 new models on five different platforms between 2009 and 2014.

It takes no more than a quick glance at the ItalDesign-penned C200 to glean that it's a welcome departure from the visually challenging (some would say butt-ugly) Stavic, and defunct Korando.

The newcomer is pitched as a Toyota RAV4/Honda CR-V rival, and it's a departure from current SsangYong models in that it uses monocoque construction (rather than a utilitarian ladder-frame) in a bid to serve up more agile and refined on-road dynamics. What's more, the platform is adaptable in the sense that it can also be used as the basis for a front-wheel-drive passenger car, says SsangYong.

The C200 also debuts a brand-new 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that's been designed for lower noise levels and reduced vibration. Its outputs of 129kW and 370Nm are certainly healthy for an oiler of its size.

SsangYong says extensive use of aluminium suspension components reduces weight and this, together with a low centre of gravity, is claimed to make for car-like ride/handling dynamics.

"This is much more than just a concept car. It marks a sea change for SsangYong with a move to monocoque construction, new engines and transmissions and adaptable platforms," says the company.

"It is also a strong signal of future intent that will see a wider and more contemporary line-up that will be able to compete aggressively in Europe. SsangYong has said that it plans to develop the vehicle into a strategic global model."

The Korean brand has found a small but steady following in Australia, selling just short of 150 vehicles per month so far this year.

The marque could receive a shot in the arm following the recent announcement that SSangYong Motors Australasia (the brand's local distributor for the past few years) would relinquish its Australian distribution rights for SsangYong vehicles to Malaysian-based multi-national, Sime Darby. Sime Darby also distributes Peugeot Down Under.

"We see Sime Darby as the best candidate in the market to take the SsangYong business to the next level and look forward to working with them," said SMA principals Russell Burling and Vince Barbagallo in a joint statement issued in September.

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