Yahoo News Car review: Ssangyong Rexton
The old SsangYong Rexton offered space, heft and value to make up for lorry-like dynamics. The new one retains its predecessor’s strengths but has much improved dynamics.
According to SsangYong the styling is ‘inspired by dignified motion,’ which doesn’t translate well so let’s just describe the car as square and chunky.
The interior is vast too, with big, comfortable seats. Fold away the second and optional third row and the rather high luggage deck provides just under 1,980 litres of space. The interior is well made from functional, hard-wearing materials, has excellent oddments space, and other than slightly fussy column stalks the controls all work well.
With a 2.2 four-cylinder Euro 6 diesel mated to a seven-speed, self-shifting transmissions the Rexton sounds a bit busy when pushed, but is otherwise quiet and civilised. On the move it pulls well, although sometimes there’s some turbo or transmission-related lag from rest.
With two wheel drive and high and low all-wheel-drive settings, good ground clearance and a separate chassis the Rexton would be effective off road and boasts a very useful 3,500kg towing capacity.
The ride is firm but not harsh, with an old school, separate chassis shimmy, the turning circle is excellent, and the very light, low geared steering surprisingly accurate. This bulky car is easy to place, aided by all-independent suspension. It doesn’t roll excessively and is a great deal nicer to drive than the old Rexton.
As ever, the car has plenty of kit. Our near £35,000 ELX had hill start and descent features, nine airbags, a slew of stability and brake control systems, multi function instruments, heated electric seats, cruise and climate control. A five year unlimited mileage warranty is a good sales feature as well.
Anyone seeking a tough, plush family or working vehicle will find the Rexton easy to live with, nice to use and good value.
Details: Ssangyong Rexton ELX
Top Speed: 115mph
0-60: 11.9 seconds
Combined fuel consumption: 34mpg
Emissions: 217g/km
Price: £34,995
