The SsangYong Korando has been given a power boost for 2016, along with improved economy and reduced CO2 emissions.
The improvements to the SUV crossover are down to a new Euro 6, 2.2-litre diesel engine, coupled with either two- or four-wheel drive, and a choice of a 6-speed manual or new Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission.
The newly developed e-XDi220 diesel engine delivers improved performance and lower CO2 emissions at the same time. Maximum power is increased to 178PS and torque to 400Nm - up by 19.4% and 11% respectively over the previous Euro 5 diesel 2.0 litre engine - and maximum torque is delivered from 1,400- 2,800rpm.
CO2 emissions have been reduced to 139g/km (down from 147g/km) while fuel economy is now up to 53.3mpg (Combined cycle) for the 2-wheel drive manual compared with 47.1mpg for the model it replaces.
As well as the powertrain upgrade, the 2016 Korando also gets an equipment boost. Externally, it now sports clear glass direction indicators, a new piano black radiator grille and new-look alloy wheels.
On the inside, there's an upgraded infotainment system with a USB memory slot, AUX port and HDMI port on all models. The SE gets an RDS audio system with an MP3 player, Bluetooth, iPod / iPhone connectivity, while both the EX and ELX come with a 7" high-resolution touch screen with audio streaming from smart devices and a link to the rear view camera, but only the range-topper gets the TomTom navigation system as standard.
The 2016 Korando range starts from £15,995 for the 2-wheel drive SE manual, topping out at £22,495 for the ELX 4x4 automatic. All models come with a 5 year unlimited mileage warranty.
"This is a significant evolution for the Korando," says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK. "The power upgrade brings greater refinement, while the car continues to deliver unrivaled levels of equipment and value. No other car in its class has such a strong towing capability, nor such a comprehensive warranty for complete peace of mind."