SsangYong Teases SIV-2 Hybrid Concept Ahead Of Geneva

We’re already expecting a big SUV from SsangYong at this year’s Geneva Motor show, but it appears that the company is planning something even bigger.

Following the teasers depicting the XLV 7-seater, the Korean automaker released another set of design sketches images previewing a new “mid-size premium SUV concept” that will make its appearance at the Swiss auto salon.

Named the SIV-2, the concept announces a new large SUV that will sit above the Tivoli crossover. This prototype is of course the second iteration of SsangYong’s mid-size SUV, following the SIV-1 concept showcased at Geneva 2013.

But unlike the previous study (which was designed to fit conventional engines), the SIV-2 is powered by a mild-hybrid powertrain, composed of a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine combined with a small electric motor and a lithium-ion battery – good for “quiet and efficient driving, reduced CO2 emissions and silent running when idling and at slow speeds”.

The SIV-2 is based on a chassis that can be further developed to accommodate alternative powertrains, such as HEV, PHEV and EV, making it a “future proof” vehicle for the brand; or at least that’s what SsangYong says.

The production variant of the SIV-2 concept is expected to go on sale in 2018, with seating for five and a worthy menace in the C-Segment.