Ssangyong Kyron

We say If you need a cheap SUV the Kyron is an option – and a genuine off-roader – but not an especially good one.Performance A 2-litre Mercedes-sourced diesel

We say If you need a cheap SUV the Kyron is an option – and a genuine off-roader – but not an especially good one.Performance A 2-litre Mercedes-sourced diesel with 140bhp and 228lb-ft of torque doesn't really have the power to drag the bulk of the Kyron and will be noisy and gruff.Emissions The Kyron can manage 36mpg and 197g/km with the manual transmission; a big penalty for the auto box at 217g/km and 33mpg.Driving The Kyron offers very good off-road performance from 4WD models but on-road manners are poor. No feedback from road, poor cornering and very lean-y into corners.Feel Pushing the diesel engine is noisy but ride comfort is OK and will improve with more weight in the Kyron.Space Plenty of space for passengers and luggage – one area the Kyron won’t disappoint.Equipment Aircon, electric windows, CD player and alloy wheels are all standard. 4WD, leather, satnav and more at top spec, which is well equipped but probably won’t be worth the extra outlay.Price Kyron is well-priced but depreciation and running costs will eat away at your original saving – running costs won’t be great due to dirty diesel engine.Quality The Kyron looks durable and well-built, if a little basic. Shouldn't be any engine problems thanks to Mercedes build. Small Ssangyong dealer network may be a pain though.Safety ABS and two airbags are standard. Stability control on some models but not on entry-level Kyrons so check what you’re getting.Pros The Kyron is cheap, big and good offroad.Cons Cheap buying costs may be a false economy due to depreciation and running costs. The Kyron has a low-quality interior.Alternatives Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe