SsangYong has introduced a 2.7-litre, third-generation common-rail turbo diesel with a five-speed semi-automatic transmission in its updated Kyron SUV that, it says, runs as quietly as a petrol engine
The five-cylinder engine uses Mercedes-Benz technology in its cylinder head, block and pistons; SsangYong quotes 121kW at 4000rpm and 340Nm from 1800-3250rpm
The part-time, all-wheel-drive system allows the driver to switch from two to four-wheel drive "on the fly" and drives via a transfer case offering high and low range.
The exterior styling has been updated and smoothed, with a larger window in the tail door for better rear vision, while the interior is now all leather, with a 60:40 split rear seat that folds flat for practical cargo-carrying ability.
There are also small storage compartments under the rear floor.
The fascia has been restyled with orange back-lighting, while switches with similar functions are grouped in circular patterns for intuitive use, and the audio controls, cruise control and gearshift are repeated on the steering wheel.
It has two 12V power sockets, one next to the front passenger seat and one in the boot.
Two front crash bags are standard, as are anti-lock brakes, side impact bars and a separate, bakkie-style triple-layer steel chassis that, SsangYong says, smoothes the ride, damps vibration and materially stiffens the vehicle.
The Kyron runs on double-wishbone suspension all round with gas-filled dampers and 16" alloy rims, previously an extra-cost option, are now standard.
The SsangYong Kyron Xdi 270 costs R349 995.