Ssangyong KORANDO C

Overview

A running South Korean brand's manufactured compact SUV, Korando C, a car designed with a conceptualized name contracted from 'Korea Can Do' is a stunning designed model which is running on its 3rd generation. The 1st generation of the Korando was a Jeep, which was introduced in 1983. Korando C variant was launched in 2010 after which it has become the most stylish SUV produced by the SsangYong brand. It is available with a powerful 2.0 litre petrol engine in the country which churns out a maximum power of 149 PS at 6000 rpm along with a maximum torque of 197 Nm at 4000 rpm. The combined fuel efficiency of the SUV with the 2WD manual transmission is 13.31 kmpl and with the 4WD auto transmission is 11.7 kmpl. Coming to the exteriors, immensely stunning appearance with supreme detailing and features is possessed by the SUV. Elegantly designed projection headlamps with daytime running LED light system give a bright stance to the car and the strong character lines on the bonnet give it a bolder look. The two-toned lower moldings, silver roof rails and the body lines over the fenders complement the side profile. Coming to the rear stance, the combination tail lamps with LED light guide in a curvy design, Chrome-plated dual exhaust pipes, the body colored rear spoiler and the black skid plates complimenting the rear body colored bumper make the SUV look sportier. From the inside the SUV has lavish single tone or optional dual tone environment with comfortable broad leather seating along with height adjustable and 6-way power driver’s seat, 60:40 split folding 2nd row seats with folding center armrest and auto heating technology for both the row seats. Below the wide black dashboard is a wooden finish detailing on the instrument panel and accompanied with chrome finish all over, AC duct surrounds, window button panels, inner door handles and the 3 spoke power steering wheel. A number of advanced safety features are equipped in the SUV such as the Door impact beams, Driver airbag and invisible passenger airbag with Side airbags for front passengers and Curtain airbags for both front and rear. Along with this there are Front ventilated disc brakes and Rear disc brakes, 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Emergency Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Active Roll-over Protection (ARP) for the braking and handling and rest are Belt reminders and speed-sensing feature, Electrochromatic inside rearview mirror, Rear obstacle warning system with 3-stage alarm, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Mileage and Fuel economy

The SUV possesses a 2WD transmission as well as a 4WD which further have automatic and manual transmission options. The combined fuel efficiency of the SUV with the 2WD manual transmission is 13.31 kmpl and with the auto transmission is 12.6 kmpl whereas the 4WD with manual transmission delivers a mileage of 12.1 kmpl and with the auto transmission 11.7 kmpl. Overall all the transmission options possess a decent fuel economy.

Power

Korando C is available with a powerful 2.0 litre petrol engine in the country which churns out a maximum power of 149 PS at 6000 rpm along with a maximum torque of 197 Nm at 4000 rpm which are impressive power figures for the SUV to take it on an off-roading ride.

Acceleration & Pickup

Not much difference can be seen in the acceleration and top speed figures between the 2WD manual and auto and 4WD manual and auto transmissions. The average calculated sprint time to reach the 100 kmph mark is 12.2 seconds with top speeds of 163 kmph and 165 kmph with the Manual and Auto transmissions respectively.

Exterior

Distinguishing designing is the key to success for the SsangYong brand which is why they provide supreme detailing and features to its every car. Elegantly designed adjustable projection headlamps with daytime running LED light system give a bright stance to the car and the strong character lines running all over the bonnet give it a bolder look. The black radiator grille with chrome finished brand Logo and round fog lamps give a desirable stance from the front. The two-toned lower moldings, body colored side mirrors with indicator LEDs and heating technology, and the body lines over the fenders complement the side profile whereas the upper lid has silver roof rails and a sunroof. The rear has a very stunning and distinct stance consisting the combination tail lamps with LED light guide in a curvy design, Chrome-plated broad dual exhaust pipes, the body colored rear spoiler and the black skid plates complimenting the rear body colored bumper, make the SUV look sportier. Beautifully designed, the SUV has the potential to sway on the roads with all heads turned.

Exterior Measurements

Huge in size and looks, the SUV stands at 4410mm x 1830mm x 1675mm (1,710 : with roof rack) (L x W x H) along with a Wheelbase of 2650mm that displays a long cabin space and legroom area.

Interior

The SUV has options with single tone and dual tone interior environment in various combinations. It is equipped with comfortable broad leather seating along with height adjustable and 6-way power driver’s seat, 60:40 split folding 2nd row seats with folding center armrest and auto heating technology for both the row seats. A lustrous wooden finish in options like matte and glossy is a detailing given on the instrument panel just below the wide black dashboard which is further highlighted by the chrome finish in the all over interior design, mainly on the AC duct surrounds, window button panels, inner door handles and the 3 spoke power steering wheel. On the center console also, chrome finish can be seen on the gearshift box, cupholder surrounds and Audio unit panel. The MID has illuminated supervision clusters along with a trip computer which displays every aspect digitally. Because of the huge Wheelbase the legroom becomes longer and comforting for the occupants.

Interior Comfort

Korando C has comfortable reclining seats with thigh and lumber support, adjustable headrests and heating technology. Certain other safety features like battery saver, Electronic Eco-cruise control, and automatic headlight activation provide a support while driving longer journeys. With this comes other comfort features like tailgate mirror with heating technology to defrost, Safety power sunroof with roof blind, audio and Bluetooth controls mounted on Steering wheel, 12V DC power outlets, a Mobile ashtray, and Positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater with manual and auto AC control options. Storage wise there are sufficient areas like storage box with armrest lid, side door and back seat pockets and glove box with sunglass holder. All these features are bunches of comfort and leisure encased in the SUV.

Interior Measurements

A huge boot space of 486 litres with foldable rear row seats gives immense space for loading huge luggage and other utility material. An additional Luggage net and tray is also provided in the boot for sticking the movable stuff into place while the car is moving on a high speed.

Engine and Performance

The SUV comes equipped with a powerful 2.0 litre petrol engine in the country with options of 2WD and 4WD, both with manual and auto transmissions, which churns out a maximum power of 149 PS at 6000 rpm along with a maximum torque of 197 Nm at 4000 rpm. Overall performance of the Korando C is undoubtedly impressive in terms of power and a decent mileage output with all options.

Stereo and Accessories

A simple 2-din RDS audio system with MP3, CD player, iPOD/iPhone supports and ports like USB, and Aux-in along with Bluetooth compatibility is installed in the SUV with six powerful sound quality speakers which include 2 tweeters. Audio controls are mounted on the power Steering wheel with the Bluetooth buttons to enjoy the phone's playlist and reject/ accept calls which help the driver to concentrate better on the road.

Wheels

Sporty Alloy wheels with a Rim size ranging from 16 inch to 18 inch comes with the SUV. These wheels have Silica tyres ranging from a tyre size of 215/65 R16 to 225/55 R18 with designs like Diamond cut and 5 spokes and 10 spokes adding quality comfort and swift to the SUV on varied terrains.

Braking and Handling

Braking and handling wise, no flaws have been made while designing the SUV which is furnished with Front ventilated disc brakes and Rear disc brakes, 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Emergency Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Active Roll-over Protection (ARP) along with Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) which are decent brake controls given to the car making it efficient for off-roading and riding on varied terrains.

Safety and Security

Like always, safety is not overlooked by the SsangYong in Korando as well. Advanced safety features are equipped in the SUV such as the Door impact beams, Driver airbag and invisible passenger airbag with on/ off switch, Side airbags for front passengers and Curtain airbags for both front and rear. Other remaining supporters are Belt reminders with Speed-sensing feature, Electrochromatic inside rearview mirror and auto heating technology possessed side mirrors for complete view in harsh weather conditions , Rear obstacle warning system with 3-stage alarm, high security systems like Immobilizer and Panic alarms, Child lock and adjustable anchorage for seat belt, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Certainly, the SUV is a complete safety featured and reliable vehicle.

Pros

Fuel Efficient
Power packed performer
High end safety ensured

Cons

Lacks engine options in the country
Absence of 3rd row seating
Ordinary Audio unit