Up until now, the SsangYong Rodius crossover handily held the title as being the World's Ugliest Car. And while this new model could very well still wear that crown, the "dynamically strong and distinctive look" is a huge step forward from, well, this.
SsangYong's new Rodius will be competitive at best amongst the large European crossover competition, offering a 2.0-liter diesel inline-four with 153 horsepower, mated to either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard (burnouts!) and all-wheel drive is optional. SsangYong has reportedly invested quite a bit of money into its new Rodius, and says the result is a utility vehicle with "executive saloon style ride quality."
Inside, there aren't any amazing or unique features to be had, just the usual assortment of modern conveniences like power/heated leather seats, a heated windshield, Bluetooth and more. The homely brute will go on sale in Europe and other foreign markets later this year. Scroll down for the official press blast as two videos – one advertisement showing the Korando Turismo (the Rodius' name in other markets) as a "rugged basecamp" and the other stock b-roll footage where you can witness all the ugliness in motion.
SsangYong's new Rodius will be competitive at best amongst the large European crossover competition, offering a 2.0-liter diesel inline-four with 153 horsepower, mated to either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard (burnouts!) and all-wheel drive is optional. SsangYong has reportedly invested quite a bit of money into its new Rodius, and says the result is a utility vehicle with "executive saloon style ride quality."
Inside, there aren't any amazing or unique features to be had, just the usual assortment of modern conveniences like power/heated leather seats, a heated windshield, Bluetooth and more. The homely brute will go on sale in Europe and other foreign markets later this year. Scroll down for the official press blast as two videos – one advertisement showing the Korando Turismo (the Rodius' name in other markets) as a "rugged basecamp" and the other stock b-roll footage where you can witness all the ugliness in motion.
EUROPEAN LAUNCH OF THE NEW SSANGYONG RODIUS TURISMO
- New design delivers space, comfort and luxury for seven passengers and their luggage
- Practical multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that's ideal for family, leisure and business travel
- Multilink rear suspension for executive saloon-style ride and handling
- Powered by SsangYong's proven 2.0 litre turbo charged 155ps e-XDi diesel engine with high end torque
After almost three years and an investment of $165 million US, SsangYong will unveil its new Rodius MPV (see note 1) in Europe. This car has been developed to combine multi role flexibility and the ride comfort and appointments of a luxury saloon within an all new shape.
With key features such as its innovative and flexible design layout, luxurious interior and competitive position in the market place, the new Rodius offers a dynamically strong and distinctive look. Sales to European and other export markets will begin later this year. (See note 2).
Design
SsangYong's designers have gone to great lengths to create a distinctive and innovative look to its new MPV that will please owners and observers alike. The brief was to create a sporting while at the same time luxurious and dignified tone that would blend well with the car's numerous roles.
Combining strength and fluidity, the front of the car has a robust stance thanks to its hexagonal shaped radiator grille and trapezoidal bumper, and the overall design successfully disguises its large exterior volume.
Interior space
Thanks to its 3,000mm wheelbase, the car provides a huge internal space where seven adults can travel in supreme comfort together with their luggage, and without having to compromise on passenger capacity. There are three rows of seats as well as a large load area which can be further increased by removing the third row completely. The second row of seats can be folded individually and used as tables, and there is still sufficient room to accommodate airline style seat back folding tables.
Powertrain
The Rodius is powered by SsangYong's own 2.0 litre turbo charged e-XDi200 diesel engine offering a level of performance and NVH that have already been tested, proven and praised in the marketplace.
The e-XDi200 engine offers maximum power of 155ps/4000rpm and maximum torque of 360Nm/1,500-2,800rpm, and is designed to provide low end torque whatever the conditions on or off road.
There's a choice of 6-speed manual transmission and 5-speed T-Tronic Mercedes-Benz automatic transmission, ensuring world-class durability, smooth gear-changing performance and quiet operation.
Ride & handling
The new Rodius utilises double wishbone front suspension and rear independent multi-link suspension for executive saloon style ride quality. This set up offers a quiet and comfortable driving environment yet with firm body motion control, a flat ride and optimum stability regardless of the road conditions. The new Rodius features rear wheel drive as standard and is also available with four wheel drive to give added security in bad weather and off road, while low ratio can be selected on the move for additional grip.
Safety
The car features a comprehensive package of active safety features, including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Active Roll over Protection (ARP) and Brake Assist System (BAS). There are dual front and side air bags, while ISO-Fix and tether anchorage points for child seats are fitted on the second row. Passive safety is further increased thanks to two high strength sub-frames fitted to the front and rear of the car. These help to disperse any impact shocks from a frontal or off set collision and protect passengers by minimising cabin distortion.
Luxury, comfort and convenience
Noted for its comprehensive levels of standard equipment, SsangYong has ensured that this new Rodius delivers a new level of luxury, comfort and convenience. Air conditioning and an Air Quality System to detect and prevent the ingress of hazardous gases such as carbon monoxide or hydrocarbons to maintain air quality, Eco Cruise Control, a heated windscreen to prevent the wipers from freezing and rear parking sensors, all make driving easier. Leather upholstery, electrically adjustable and heated front seats, and an MP3 CD & RDS radio with a USB & auxiliary port and Bluetooth connectivity also feature.
- New design delivers space, comfort and luxury for seven passengers and their luggage
- Practical multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that's ideal for family, leisure and business travel
- Multilink rear suspension for executive saloon-style ride and handling
- Powered by SsangYong's proven 2.0 litre turbo charged 155ps e-XDi diesel engine with high end torque
After almost three years and an investment of $165 million US, SsangYong will unveil its new Rodius MPV (see note 1) in Europe. This car has been developed to combine multi role flexibility and the ride comfort and appointments of a luxury saloon within an all new shape.
With key features such as its innovative and flexible design layout, luxurious interior and competitive position in the market place, the new Rodius offers a dynamically strong and distinctive look. Sales to European and other export markets will begin later this year. (See note 2).
Design
SsangYong's designers have gone to great lengths to create a distinctive and innovative look to its new MPV that will please owners and observers alike. The brief was to create a sporting while at the same time luxurious and dignified tone that would blend well with the car's numerous roles.
Combining strength and fluidity, the front of the car has a robust stance thanks to its hexagonal shaped radiator grille and trapezoidal bumper, and the overall design successfully disguises its large exterior volume.
Interior space
Thanks to its 3,000mm wheelbase, the car provides a huge internal space where seven adults can travel in supreme comfort together with their luggage, and without having to compromise on passenger capacity. There are three rows of seats as well as a large load area which can be further increased by removing the third row completely. The second row of seats can be folded individually and used as tables, and there is still sufficient room to accommodate airline style seat back folding tables.
Powertrain
The Rodius is powered by SsangYong's own 2.0 litre turbo charged e-XDi200 diesel engine offering a level of performance and NVH that have already been tested, proven and praised in the marketplace.
The e-XDi200 engine offers maximum power of 155ps/4000rpm and maximum torque of 360Nm/1,500-2,800rpm, and is designed to provide low end torque whatever the conditions on or off road.
There's a choice of 6-speed manual transmission and 5-speed T-Tronic Mercedes-Benz automatic transmission, ensuring world-class durability, smooth gear-changing performance and quiet operation.
Ride & handling
The new Rodius utilises double wishbone front suspension and rear independent multi-link suspension for executive saloon style ride quality. This set up offers a quiet and comfortable driving environment yet with firm body motion control, a flat ride and optimum stability regardless of the road conditions. The new Rodius features rear wheel drive as standard and is also available with four wheel drive to give added security in bad weather and off road, while low ratio can be selected on the move for additional grip.
Safety
The car features a comprehensive package of active safety features, including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Active Roll over Protection (ARP) and Brake Assist System (BAS). There are dual front and side air bags, while ISO-Fix and tether anchorage points for child seats are fitted on the second row. Passive safety is further increased thanks to two high strength sub-frames fitted to the front and rear of the car. These help to disperse any impact shocks from a frontal or off set collision and protect passengers by minimising cabin distortion.
Luxury, comfort and convenience
Noted for its comprehensive levels of standard equipment, SsangYong has ensured that this new Rodius delivers a new level of luxury, comfort and convenience. Air conditioning and an Air Quality System to detect and prevent the ingress of hazardous gases such as carbon monoxide or hydrocarbons to maintain air quality, Eco Cruise Control, a heated windscreen to prevent the wipers from freezing and rear parking sensors, all make driving easier. Leather upholstery, electrically adjustable and heated front seats, and an MP3 CD & RDS radio with a USB & auxiliary port and Bluetooth connectivity also feature.
Featured Gallery 2013 Ssangyong Rodius: Geneva 2013
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