PARIS MOTOR SHOW: SsangYong unveils Rexton replacement

SsangYong has released early images of the concept that will directly influence the next-generation Rexton SUV it introduces next year.

Called the LIV-2 (Limitless Interface Vehicle), the latest SsangYong concept picks up where the 2013 Seoul motor show LIV-1 concept left off, evolving its design and keeping its sloping roofline, narrow window line and sculptured wheel arches.

The LIV-2 is said to be powered by a 133kW 2.2-litre diesel that will be offered on the production version as well as a direct-injection 2.0-litre petrol. Both engines will be combined with a Mercedes-Benz-sourced seven-speed automatic transmission. A year later this will be replaced by the Benz's new nine-speed auto.

Instead of releasing pictures of the interior, the Korean car-maker has preferred to tease its flagship SUV's cabin.

Expect the cabin to be far more luxurious with improved quality unrecognisable from that of the outgoing, cheap-feeling Rexton.

Like the current big SUV, the new product will be based on a tough ladder-frame chassis that will also underpin the Korando Sports one-tonne ute that's coming in 2018.

Available with five or seven seats the Rexton replacement is shaping up to be a cut-price alternative to the Mazda CX-9.

Despite being longer, wider and more spacious than the current Rexton, the new SUV is claimed to weigh at least 50kg lighter. Factor in better aerodynamics and the SsangYong's latest SUV offering will offer significant efficiency gains.

All models will come with switchable all-wheel drive and the diesel Rextons will come with near best-in-class towing capacities.

Safety equipment will also improve with the Rexton replacement, with the SUV set to gain more airbags, lane departure warning and blind spot protection.

Unfortunately, the better equipped, safer, more luxurious SUV is expected to be pricier than the outgoing model, so expect a hike over the $37,990 (driveway) SsangYong currently charges for the cheapest Rexton it makes.