SsangYong sales soar with updates
SsangYong makes good sales ground with release of face-lifted Actyon and Korando, and expects the same with new RextonUpdates for SsangYong's Actyon ute and Korando small SUV have helped local sales increase by around 50 per cent for both models, and the Korean automaker expects similar results with the release of the face-lifted Rexton.
The new Rexton seven-seat SUV was unveiled at the Busan International Motor Show in South Korea late last month, equipped with a 2.0-litre turbodiesel. The new engine will replace the Benz-sourced 2.7-litre five-cylinder diesel offered with the current model.
Called e-XDi200, the engine was introduced here with a six-speed auto in the new Actyon, rated at 114kW/360Nm and offering better low-down tractability with most torque available by 1500rpm. The four-cylinder also meets Euro V emissions standards which is important for the brand's progress, said Sime Darby SsangYong spokesman, Steven Thomas.
A more powerful version of the e-XDi200 is also available and under consideration for local showrooms, Mr Thomas told motoring.com.au.
Production for the new Rexton starts in September; initially for left-hand drive models but Mr Thomas said his company would push for deliveries here by the end of this year.
"The Rexton has been successful for us and it almost has a cult following," said Mr Thomas. Retirees in particular bought the large SUV for its luxury bent and high-end towing capability, he said. "People have been hanging out for this facelift."
The 2012 update brings significantly restyled front end, updates to the interior trim and up-to-date driver aids. Rexton is currently offered with three specification levels but Mr Thompson told motoring.com.au the new model would be more likely have two grades, in harmony with the new Actyon range.
New 'SX' and 'SPR' specifications will be offered, bringing more equipment to the mid-range version and high-end luxury treatment to the top-spec model. "We want to reduce model range complexity," said Mr Thomas.
On recent sales success, Mr Thomas concedes Korando's figures have been helped by the run-out of the older plate S model, currently offered with around $3K factory bonus. However, the reworked Actyon range has served SsangYong well: "If we can do the same for the other models, we're definitely on our way here," said Mr Thomas.
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