SsangYong’s new SUV range will spawn a seven-seat model to rival the Land Rover Discovery Sport, Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe by 2020.
The South Korean manufacturer currently utilizes two platforms, specifically a monocoque for models like the Tivoli and a ladder-frame platform for bigger SUVs like the Rexton.
“We will be developing a new D-segment global monocoque platform to build a D-SUV and D-MPV in the next five years,” said SsangYong Motor Company CEO, Johng-sik Choi, in an exclusive interview with Auto Express.
“As an off-road player we like to keep a frame-type vehicle, but completely modernized. We specialize and it differentiates us from others. A tough environment suits our cars. SsangYong has 65 years of brand heritage, coming from a body-on-frame chassis and diesel engines,” Choi commented.
The SsangYong CEO also confirmed that production will be increased to 500,000 cars per year, by using his company’s own technology, as well as technology from parent company Mahindra and from the LG U+ telecommunications arm of electronics giant LG.
Note: SsangYong LIV-2 SUV Concept pictured
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