Overall Rating |  |
The Korean-built but British-styled Korando 4x4 also wore the SsangYong badge from 1997. It's mechanically tough and quite roomy but lacks on-road refinement and a convincing heritage.
For
- Cheap considering its equipment and ability
- Proven and reliable, particularly the Mercedes engines
- Well equipped for a utilitarian 4x4
Against
- Daewoo and SsangYong are not names to woo 4x4 buyers
- Individualistic styling is over-the-top
- Ride and cabin lack refinement
Road Test
Korando was developed from a workhorse favoured by the South Korean army and police. Its butch (some might say brutal) styling is different but didn't win it acceptance in a market more used to the subtle lines of Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester.
Engines are Mercedes-licenced: a 2.3 petrol and a 2.9 turbodiesel, driving through a five-speed gearbox with selectable four-wheel drive. The units are hardly state-of-the-art but willing enough - though the 2.3 is quite thirsty - and are proving reliable. The torquey diesel is the best choice for off-roading (where Korando is in its element) and for towing; it gives nearly 30mpg.
Provided you can live with inevitable body roll and a ride that's on the hard side of firm, Korando isn't a bad drive. It feels fairly agile, roadholding is assured, and there's good all-round vision from the high cabin.
Fairly generous equipment includes ABS and air conditioning.
Need To Know
NCAP: Not tested
Best Models: 2.9 TD
Worst Models: None
Replacement: N/A
Alternatives
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