SsangYong Battles On With Surprisingly Significant Rexton Update

In news that is perhaps surprising considering the brand’s beleaguered nature, SsangYong has announced the introduction of the 2021 model year Rexton to the UK market.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that SsangYong had bigger fish to fry. What with the company’s future hanging in the balance thanks to bankruptcy filings and continued bail-outs. But it seems that in-between the missed debt repayments and meetings with prospective new suiters, the Korean automaker has been able to work on a fairly significant update to their flagship SUV.

Straight off the bat, you’ll see a new front grille, which confusingly makes the Rexton look less distinctive (and quite a bit uglier) than the outgoing car. The new front-end is reminiscent of MG’s latest offerings —think MG Hector, and it doesn’t look a million miles away. Thankfully it’s far removed from the previous atrocities from SsangYong, such as the Rodius and Musso.

See: SsangYong Files For Receivership After Missing Loan Payment

But the changes aren’t just skin-deep. Under the hood, the engine boasts more power. The SsangYong-produced 2.2-liter diesel engine remains but now boasts 199 hp (202 PS) and maximum torque of 325 lb-ft (441 Nm), up from the 178hp (180 PS)and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of the pre-facelift.

The Mercedes-Benz-sourced running gear that used to be a hallmark of the 90s and early 00s SYs has been ditched in favor of a new eight-speed unit from Hyundai Transys — which you won’t be surprised to hear is also the supplier of Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia cars.

The new transmission is said to reduce NVH levels, as too is improved aero. SsangYong claims that the Rexton’s interior is one of the quietest in its class, impressive for an old-school, diesel-fueled ladder-chassis design.

The Rexton comes in two new trims: Ventura and Ultimate. The Ventura starts at £37,995 and comes well equipped. It features dual-zone climate control, an 8″ touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a heated leather steering wheel as well as power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats. Plus, you get a bevy of safety kit, including nine airbags.

The £40,665 Ultimate trim adds leather seats, LED fog lights, a larger infotainment screen, mood lighting, a 360-degree camera system, more safety equipment, and a ‘smart’ electronic tailgate.