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Auto Express Car Reviews
SsangYong Rodius 2.7 CDTi
Is beauty really skin deep? To find out, we jumped behind the wheel of the startling new SsangYong Rodius MPV. Revealed in Auto Express in issue 800 and hailed one of the world's ugliest cars, we were hoping the model - on sale in Korea this week - would be better to drive than it is to look at.
By Charley Chae
May 2004
Is beauty really skin deep? To find out, we jumped behind the wheel of the startling new SsangYong Rodius MPV. Revealed in Auto Express in issue 800 and hailed one of the world's ugliest cars, we were hoping the model - on sale in Korea this week - would be better to drive than it is to look at. But initial impressions were inconclusive. Although the diesel engine is torquey and the optional 11-seat layout practical, there's no escaping the cramped cabin - particularly in the rear.
On the road, the car's vast girth and three-metre wheelbase don't help the handling. The suspension is marshmallow soft, but at least the ride is relatively comfortable.
Twin airbags, ABS and a full complement of three-point belts will attract family buyers, but the company's importer is not sure whether to bring the car to the UK. However, in its home market of Korea, SsangYong hopes to sell 23,000 examples in the first full year of production. Koreans obviously have different tastes to us.
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FIRST OPINION
- The controversial-looking Rodius' massive passenger capacity is its most appealing trait. Although a little cramped and not particularly good to drive, the car is at least relatively practical.
AT A GLANCE
- Rodius offers 11-seat interior
- Powered by a Mercedes-sourced 2.7-litre diesel engine
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