Remember the SsangYong Korando? The compact SUV whose name means, “Korea Can Do” and whose styling resembles a suppository? No? Well, don’t worry, because the all-new 2020 version is here, and this time, it’s got some killer looks to take on the world. And the best part? Prices start at just P 1.290-million.
The fourth-generation Korando gains the new angular family look. With that, it’s got the “birds wing” front grille, curved shoulder lines that taper towards the rear of the car, and available LED headlights and LED fog lights. Ground clearance ranges from 172 to 182 mm depending on the variant, while at each corner are either 17- or 18-inch wheels (225/60 R 17 or 225/55 R 18). And despite its modern design, it still has an 18-degree approach and 24.5-degree departure angle.
Inside, the all-new Korando features enriched interior materials combined with cutting-edge design technologies. Available features include the full 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, 8-inch Smart Audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual zone climate control, and leather seats with power movement for the front occupants.
More than just style, the 2020 Korando also seats 5 comfortably with an enlarged cabin, while the cargo hold can fit up to 1,248 liters of stuff.
Powering the Korando is either a powerful 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine or a punchy 1.6-liter turbodiesel. The base 1.5T Sport has 163 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque, while the 1.6 Diesel Sport and 1.6 Diesel Premium both have 136 horsepower and 324 Nm of torque available on tap. This is mated to a third-generation Aisin 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters, cruise control, and selectable driving modes. Power is routed solely through the front wheels.
In a first for SsangYong, the Korando uses structural adhesives to improve monocoque rigidity, optimizing noise, and tonal qualities. Their work has paid off: its cabin noise at idle is just at 44 dB compared to the Kia Sportage Diesel’s 45.6 dB. Meanwhile, its chassis vibration is at 95 Hz to the Sportage’s 97 Hz.
In terms of safety, the 2020 Korando comes standard with dual SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, and vehicle stability control. Front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera is standard on all but the base trim.
The 2020 SsangYong Korando is available in three variants: the 1.5T Sport at P 1,290,000; 1.6 Diesel Sport at P 1,578,000; and the 1.6 Diesel Premium at P 1,770,000. As always, all SsangYong models come with the brand’s generous 5-year / 100,000-kilometer warranty and free 3-year / 60,000-kilometer PMS package.
To make the Korando even more enticing, SsangYong Philippines is adding a P 30,000 discount for all who reserve a unit starting today until the end of November. SsangYong currently has three dealerships: Sta Rosa, Laguna; Otis, Manila; and Cebu.
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