SsangYong Rexton W CSX commercial vehicle launched

SsangYong's Rexton CS van has received a mid-life refresh with an updated cabin, revised styling and an efficient new 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine. On sale in the UK now, it compliments the smaller, recently facelifted Korando CSX Commercial and is priced from £18,495 (excl. VAT).

Rather than the old Mercedes-sourced 2.7-litre diesel, SsangYong has elected to go it alone with the Rexton CS, using its own 2.0-litre e-XDi200 turbo unit. It produces 153bhp and 360Nm of torque from 1,500rpm. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, it also features selectable low-range for genuine off-road ability. The three-tonne towing capacity is one of the best in its class.

Based on the current Rexton SUV, but with the rear seats removed and replaced by a flat load space, the van features exterior styling revisions including a completely new nose, front grille and bumper design. The rear-end appears largely unchanged, with the Korean firm still deciding to use blacked-out windows instead of traditional van panels for the loadspace.

Inside, the firm claims there is a "fresh new look" with aluminium and chrome-effect finishes and new soft-touch materials helping to make it feel more upmarket. Standard equipment includes cruise control, aircon, electric heated door mirrors, a leather wheel and gearknob, and a CD radio with Bluetooth and iPod connectivity.

Safety kit includes ESP, Active Rollover Protection, Hill Descent Control and dual front and side airbags. The Rexton W CSX also gets a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, like the smaller Korando.