SsangYong Wz

Modesty obviously isn’t the best policy at SsangYong – the Korean firm has boldly named its latest model the World Zenith!

Hoping to grab the attention of visitors to Frankfurt, the four-door is a clear demonstration that SsangYong is more than just a 4x4 maker. In fact, the company plans to substantially widen its line-up by 2011 and has 30 new variants in the pipeline.

In conjunction with Chinese firm SAIC, SsangYong plans to develop five new platforms, three fresh petrol engines and two advanced diesel units. And although the World Zenith – or Wz for short – is just a concept at the moment, the firm has hinted that it will go into production. With many familiar styling cues, the newcomer looks similar to a Lexus GS, but is closer in size to a large-scale luxury saloon, measuring more than five metres in length.

Power comes from a twin-turbo 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine delivering 360bhp through a seven-speed auto transmission. Fitted with four-wheel drive and self-levelling suspension, the Wz could be the first SsangYong ready to take on Europe’s executive models.

Other hi-tech features include adaptive cruise control and a lane departure warning system, while SsangYong has also fitted its Around Monitoring System, which uses cameras to help eliminate blind spots.