Keen pricing for new Ssangyong Rexton

Published Sep 26, 2012

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The third-generation Ssangyong Rexton is about to hit the South African market with a rather competitive price tag.

The new (or at least heavily facelifted) one has been dubbed Rexton W, the latter part of its name standing for “world class” and “work of art” - Ssangyong's words, not ours.

The South Korean brand, now owned by Mahindra, is keeping the local range simple. You can have the standard five-seat model for R349 995 or the 'Deluxe' seven-seater if R389 995 is at your disposal.

Both choices are powered by a 2.7-litre turbodiesel engine credited with 121kW at 4000rpm and 340Nm at 1800Nm, which is enough to ensure a 2700kg towing capacity. If you choose the five-seater you get a five-speed manual gearbox, while the seven-seater is fitted with a five-speed auto.

A PROPER 4X4

Unlike the recently launched Korando, which is a typical soft-roader, the Rexton W sticks to Ssangyong's roots by offering a four-wheel drive transmission complete with a transfer case that offers low-range gearing. In two-wheel drive mode, drive is to the rear wheels.

Inside the new Rexton you'll find a multi-function steering wheel, 2 DIN MP3/CD audio system with six speakers and Bluetooth capability, climate control, rear park assist and automatic headlights. The Deluxe packs on even more luxury in the form of leather seats and cruise control.

Ssangyong says it has airbags - but no mention of how many - and it's also fitted with ABS brakes. Strangely there is no mention of traction control, which is an important feature on a vehicle of this nature.

TEMPTING VALUE

Now under the curatorship of Mahindra's distribution system, the Rexton will be sold through 22 dealerships around South Africa and with a warranty that covers it for three years or 100 000km. They've also thrown in a five-year/90 000km service plan.

If you're looking for a capable off-road wagon, this Korean appears to offer temptingly good value if you consider that a 3-litre Fortuner 4x4 with similar power comes in at R455 300.

Best of all, it now comes without the oddball styling of previous Ssangyongs.

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