SsangYong Rexton and Korando SUVs get makeover

Updated 2021 SsangYong Rexton and Korando models have been quietly released in Australia this week, bringing more power for both SUVs but axing entry-level variants.

In showrooms now, the large seven-seat MY21 SsangYong Rexton range no longer offers two powertrain options and three equipment grades, but instead two grades and a single 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine paired to a new eight-speed automatic.

Outputs are boosted to 148.6kW of power and 441Nm of torque, while average fuel consumption is also said to be improved, to 8.3L/100km.

In 2021, Rexton buyers can choose from just two grades, the ELX priced at $47,990 drive-away and the range-topping Ultimate ($54,990 drive-away).

Standard gear for the Rexton ELX includes 18-inch alloy wheels and new LED headlights, fog lights and tail-lights, leather-appointed seat trim, plus an auto-locking rear differential and powered front seats with heating and cooling.

Inside the cabin is a new 12.3-inch colour instrument cluster, while dual Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane change assist, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), a driver’s knee airbag, trailer sway control (new) and cruise control round out its standard equipment list.

Opting for the flagship SsangYong Rexton Ultimate brings larger 20-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera, sunroof, electric tailgate, interior mood lighting, full leather seat trim, heated steering wheel, tri-zone climate control, wireless phone charging (new), front touch-sensing door-handles and driver’s seat memory. 

Every Rexton also comes with a new ‘rear cabin talk function’, so you don’t have to scream at the kids, while the only optional extra is metallic paint ($495).

The smaller MY21 SsangYong Korando mid-size SUV is now also on sale in local showrooms and continues with a three-grade line-up.

Now with a higher entry point of $29,990 drive-away (previously $26,990 drive-away), the range-opening EX brings 17-inch alloy wheels, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane keep assist, auto high-beam, rain-sensing wipers, fabric seat trim, cruise control, reverse camera and an 8.0-inch touch-screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

New additions across the entire Korando range include a full-size spare tyre and a new cargo cover.

Moving into the mid-spec ELX ($32,990 drive-away) adds larger 18-inch alloy wheels, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, electric park brake, LED fog lights and daytime running lights (DRLs), smart key with push button start, heated front seats, leather steering wheel and silver roof rails.

Both the EX and ELX are powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine delivering 120kW of power, 280Nm of torque and paired to a six-speed Aisin automatic transmission.

The range-topping Korando UItimate is priced from $37,990 drive-away and comes with the option of the same 1.5-litre petrol or, for another $2000, a 100kW/324Nm 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel.

Opting for the turbo-diesel means you still get the same six-speed auto, however, it’s mated to an all-wheel drive system instead of the 1.5’s front-drive layout.

While combined fuel consumption figures for the 1.5-litre petrol are rated at 7.7L/100km, the diesel donk is said to use just 6.4L.

No matter which engine is chosen, all Korando Ultimate variants come with the same equipment including 19-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, lane centre following assist, sunroof, electric tailgate, heated steering wheel, cooled front seats, dual-zone climate control, tyre pressure monitoring, eight-way powered front seats (including lumbar) and a larger 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster.

Again, the only option for Korando models is a $495 metallic paint job.

All new SsangYongs continue to come with a seven-year/unlimited-km factory warranty.

How much do the 2021 SsangYong SUVs cost?
Korando EX – $29,990
Korando ELX – $32,990
Korando Ultimate – $37,990
Korando Ultimate – $39,990
Rexton ELX – $47,990
Rexton Ultimate – $54,990
* Prices include on-road costs (drive-away)