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Introduction
We live in a world where most 4X4s will never actually leave the tarmac. While some barely even have the ability to go off-road, the Rexton is definitely not one of them. Targeted at the caravan and equestrian markets, SsangYong knows its buyers well.
The Rexton instantly stands out, those in need of a genuine off roader are finding their options more limited, and that’s where the Rexton fits in.
The new car is a massive step up from the old model - sharing little with the outgoing Rexton. The bodywork is all-new and SsangYong has dropped in its own 2.2-litre unit, as opposed to Mercedes engines from before. However, inside is where the biggest changes have made. No longer do you have scratchy plastics, but quilted leather, real wood and soft-touch materials, all demonstrating the Rexton is ready to compete in this congested market.
Performance
Choice is limited when it comes to engines - with only one option, a four-cylinder 2.2-litre diesel. It is packed with 420Nm of torque and It feels easily capable and can tow up to 3,500kg.
While you get a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, SsangYong expects many of its customers will opt for the Mercedes-sourced automatic gearbox as It is smooth and unobtrusive.
Ride and Handling
During normal driving, it is perfectly fine, but take it out of its comfort zone and it doesn't provide the best ride. The steering is over-assisted and it can’t hide its significant bulk. Although this does help with towing as the Rexton can manage a 3500kg braked trailer. The four-wheel drive system with a low-ratio box also does help the car cope well with off-road excursions, too.
Keeping it leisurely and relaxed, the ride is comfortable and cushioned.
Interior and equipment
If you’ve seen SsangYong interiors in the past, the new Rexton has come on leaps and bounds. Rather than use an ill-fitting infotainment system, SsangYong has fitted its own 8-inch system (9.2-inch on higher-spec cars). It works well and no longer feel like an afterthought.
While base models get cloth upholstery, mid and top-spec cars have leather, and all cars have a classy wooden finish on the dash. The quality is much improved though - minus some rather scratchy plastics - and is easily on par with offerings from Hyundai and Kia.
It is very well equipped, too. As standard you get cruise control, climate control, automatic lights and wipers, electric mirrors and all-around parking sensors.
It also comes laden with safety equipment including autonomous braking, front collision warning, traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning and a range of off-road aids all thrown in as standard.
Cost
This is definitely where the Rexton excels, few cars offer the value for money that this does. A base price of £27,500 makes it exceptional value. The top-of-the-range version costs £37,500, but you’d be looking at a three-year-old Land Rover Discovery, to come close to that.
The options list is also kept at an absolute minimum, with the only choices being colours and a tow bar - giving an indication as to how much equipment you get as standard.
The only thing that does let the side down is its running costs. It manages just 34mpg on the combined cycle and a produces a hefty 218g/km of CO2.
Verdict
The Ssangyong Rexton is hugely spacious and there is nothing quite like it at this price point, overall a great option for your first step into the SUV market