Ssangyong Korando - Going Commando

SsangYong’s new compact crossover proves that sometimes, all a driver needs are the bare essentials

Like the smartphones we use, the modern automobile has evolved into a complex machine with numerous functions, many of which most drivers will hardly utilize. Two decades ago, the most advanced accessories in a vehicle were probably the CD player and a remote locking/unlocking system. Today, cars have features such as parallel parking aids and radar-assisted cruise control – functions that are amazing, but can be scary to use.

Ssangyong Korando

This is exactly why we petrol heads still love getting behind the wheel of a simpler vehicle. Without the need to learn how all these modern conveniences work, the focus can shift back to enjoying the drive. I might sound (and be) old-fashioned, but being able to parallel-park without relying on a computer still gives me a sense of great accomplishment.

Perhaps Korean brand SsangYong had simplicity in mind when it created the new Korando crossover featured here. Compared to its oddball predecessor, this third-generation model has more cohesive styling with no bizarre elements whatsoever. In fact, the only feature that stands out is its enormous, shiny chrome grille. This stylishness is all thanks to Italdesign Giugiaro, the company founded by renowned automotive designer Giorgetto Giugiaro.

It’s a different story once you’ve climbed aboard, however, because the designer looks aren’t replicated inside. The cockpit’s layout is rather simple and wouldn’t look out of place in, say, a Toyota Corolla Altis. The overall feel, though, is plasticky and unyielding. Thankfully, there’s still gentleness in the way the glove box opens as well as the manner in which the grab handles retract.

Willing laborer: Korando’s 2-litre unit needs plenty of revs to get going and sounds workmanlike above 3000rpm

The simple dashboard also means that there aren’t any new “toys” to play with. Features like an automatically dimming rear view mirror, and a hi-fi unit with Bluetooth and USB connectivity are pretty common in new cars these days. More important to buyers, though, is the fact that the air-con system is so devastatingly effective that it can make a sunny day seem like a wintry one.

The Korando actually feels nimble, but its brakes could use more bite

Equally fantastic are the spacious rear seats, which are complemented by the flat floor. Four average-sized adults could easily fit back here thanks to the excellent legroom and foot space. The rear bench can also be folded flat to expand the boot’s capacity – a useful tool given the fact that there isn’t much storage space for passengers’ loose items.

Surprisingly decent, on the other hand, is how the Korando drives. Now while the steering might feel vague at expressway speeds, the car’s body feels taut and admirably resists body roll. The ride quality, which is noticeably on the stiff side, also helps with this crossover’s cornering ability.

In need of improvement, however, is the Korando’s 2-litre petrol motor. With just 149bhp and 197Nm peaking at 6000rpm and 4000rpm respectively, you’ll need plenty of revs to make any progress. Not surprisingly, SsangYong claims an official (and very credible) century dash time of 14.6 seconds.

Stiff setting: The seats are stiff, but taller occupants will definitely like the generous headroom available

If you’re looking for more muscle, the Korando can also be had with a 2-litre turbo-diesel engine, which is good for 175bhp and a meatier 360Nm. But performance-wise, the diesel unit isn’t much better – especially in terms of fuel consumption. SsangYong claims that the diesel-powered model covers 13.7km/L on the combined cycle – that’s just a kilometer further than what this petrol variant manages.

What the Korando is, then, is a good-looking, practical and no-frills crossover. But in the context of high COE premiums and restrictive financing rules, it’s hard to justify paying so much for a vehicle that only offers the bare essentials.

Ssangyong Korando side

About face

Introduced in 1996, the second-generation Korando’s most distinctive feature is its front end, which has a tapered bonnet allegedly styled to resemble the American Willys Jeep from World War II. But its design probably looked abstract to most buyers, even if it was conceptualized by Professor Ken Greenly from the UK’s Royal College of Art. More attractive, however, is the fact that this Korando is “powered by Mercedes-Benz”. Customers could choose between three engines, which were produced under license from the German carmaker.

Ssangyong Korando back