Ssangyong Korando review

The Ssangyong Korando is a competitor for the likes of the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. Despite being longer than the Nissan, if not quite as big as the Sportage, the Ssangyong costs considerably less than the entry-level versions of its competitors.

Even though it’s cheap, all models get a punchy 2.2-litre diesel engine with 176bhp and plenty of low down pulling power, too. It may not be the most refined unit, but it makes the Korando a very tempting and well-priced tow car.

Although there’s only one engine on offer, you get a choice of transmissions. The cheapest option is a six-speed manual gearbox with front-wheel drive, although you can also opt for four-wheel drive. There is also a six-speed automatic available, but only with four-wheel drive.

The Korando is wider than many of its rivals, which means you can genuinely fit five adults inside without too much shoulder rubbing. A completely flat floor helps rear leg room, while head room is equally impressive. The boot won’t disappoint either, as it’s not only big, but there’s virtually no load lip either. If you need to carry even more, the rear seats fold flat as well.

However, in some areas you can tell that the Korando is cheaper than its main rivals. The interior quality is questionable in places, the infotainment system feels every bit as aftermarket as it is, and the CO2 emissions figures are well off the pace, too.