SsangYong Korando 1.5
Diesel impressed, now we see if petrol power is the pick
WHEN we first tried the new SsangYong Korando back in August (Issue 1,590), we were impressed with just how much it had improved. Doubts remained, however, most notably with regards to the diesel engine, which sounded gruff and felt lethargic.
But from December, there’s a new petrol model joining the range. Like the diesel, the 1.5-litre turbocharged unit is developed in-house, but with 161bhp, it makes an additional 27bhp. There is slightly less torque, but it’s spread across a wider range.
The petrol is much smoother than the diesel, and for the most part it’s quiet, only piping up under hard acceleration. Power delivery is linear, too, but it never feels quick. Outright speed isn’t a vital quality for a family SUV, but the Korando feels sluggish, even when compared with less powerful rivals.
It’s not helped by the standard-fit manual gearbox. The wide gate means that it’s easy to fumble shifts, so it’s quite obstructive to use. There’s a six-speed auto for £1,500, and while it’s a little slow, it shifts slickly.
The tardy performance could be excused if the engine was frugal, but that’s not the case. Official figures are still to be certified, but on our flat, quiet Spanish test route, the car’s trip computer struggled to average 40mpg.
The Korando rarely feels exciting to drive, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. There is a Sport mode, which adds weight to the steering, but it doesn’t turn the Korando into a hot hatch; body roll is pronounced, and it doesn’t grip as strongly as its rivals.
For the most part though, the suspension set-up feels relaxing. The exception is at low speeds, where the ride can fidget over less-than-perfect surfaces – particularly on the largest 19-inch alloy wheels.
The petrol is offered in ELX, Ventura and Ultimate trims. The ELX kicks off the range at £19,995; which is competitive considering the entry-level Kia Sportage costs £675 more. The Korando is a little basic in terms of kit, but every model gets 17-inch alloys, all-weather tyres, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, plus auto lights and wipers.
Next is the £22,995 Ventura, but Ultimate models like ours top the range with LED lights, keyless entry, 12.3-inch digital dials and a wide range of safety tech. The petrol range tops out at £27,995, £4k less than the equivalent diesel. Yet Renault offers more competitive finance deals on the Kadjar.