Last time we drove the Ssangyong Korando we had a few criticisms about its refinement, but the brand claims to have sorted these issues and has also released the well-equipped LE model tested here.
SsangYong has re-programmed the ECU to help improve performance and reduce engine noise, which doesn’t sound like a lot but the difference is certainly noticeable. The 173bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine sounds immediately less rattly – though still noisy – and power delivery is smoother and more consistent than before too.
The statistics remain the same though, with a 0-62mph time of 9.9 seconds and – in our front wheel-drive model – fuel economy of 47.1mpg.
The last time we drove the Korando it was fitted with an automatic gearbox, which spoilt the experience with its juddery shifts between first and second gears. SsangYong claims to have fixed the problem but our car was fitted with a six-speed manual so we won’t know until we can test it.
Unfortunately SsangYong hasn’t altered the way the Korando rides. The suspension doesn’t soak up rough roads in the same accomplished way most small off-roaders do and the body rolls too much in the bends too.
The interior is simply laid out and some thought has been put into the design but the quality of materials falls short of rivals, particularly the hard and scratchy plastics on the doors and dashboard.
That could be a sacrifice worth making when you consider the Korando LE costs just £17,995 – a price-tag which includes electrically adjustable heated leather seats, parking sensors, 18-inch alloys and automatic air-con.
Consider that a Nissan Qashqai 1.6dCi 2WD Acenta costs £21,295 and you realise just how cheap the Korando is – especially taking into account the fact that the Qashqai still doesn’t come as standard with 18-inch alloys or heated leather seats.
The SsangYong has been improved and in LE specification it’s also better value than ever. Admittedly the ride, refinement and cabin quality are still some way short of rivals but a Korando that is £3,300 cheaper than an equivalent Qashqai, and better equipped too has got to be an appealing proposition.
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Guys you need to differentiate the capabilities of a car from its price. The Korando sounds like a poor performer and yet it achieves 3 stars cause its cheap. A couple of weeks ago I commented on an Insignia which was all praise but got three stars because of price. Undoubtedly, the rating as used now gives the wrong impression of the car.
Hello again @PAAdam.
Every other version of the Korando we've driven has received two stars, and the LE version we've tested here is the best of the lot.
It's a lot of car for the money, and comes with more equipment than any other car at this price. It has class-leading towing ability and it's more refined, too. We were pleasantly surprised.
The Insignia and Korando are in two very different classes so can't really be compared - and the Insignia you're referring to was very, very expensive - but both are average for their class so get three stars.
Hope this helps,
Auto Express
at 18000 pounds, with 173 hp, 360 torque, fully equipped, enough space and definately better looking than the Qashqai, you just cannot go wrong.
'First opinion' says it all.
Good job by SsangYong!
This is a very nice looking and inoffensive car. SsangYong change the suspension settings and add 16inch wheels please for a softer ride on the LE & ES versions and Bingo this will be a winner. Shame about the name though, in the UK it's the name that helps to sells cars, although saying that tomorrow morning I'm going to take a look at a Korando and arrange a test drive. If it hasn't a spare wheel I'll walk away as I am not paying £20,000 for a pump up sealant kit in case it has a puncher.
Good piece Luke. The new SsangYong SX variant is out...2.0 turbo-diesel 4WD for under £18,800. Read all about it here: http://waynesworldautobloguk.w...