KGM Korando E-Motion EV has genuine appeal
KGM is the new name for SsangYong throughout Europe, with the cars continuing to wear SsangYong’s dragon wing logo on the front. The South Korea-based automobile manufacturer can trace its origins back to 1954, and the company’s main focus is on SUVs and Crossovers, along with the transition to pure-electric powertrains for the modern world we live in. The first pure-electric offering from KGM is the all-new Korando e-Motion five-seat mid-size SUV that has an overall length of just under 4.5-metres, and a height of 1.63-metres – making underground carparks easily accessible.
The exterior design of the Korando e-Motion is individualistic, contemporary, strong and distinctive, and its sets its own style agenda to lead rather than follow the crowd.
The interior offers the perfect blend of practicality and comfort, while the standard 551-litre boot capacity is a huge bonus for the ever-changing needs of a growing family. The cargo area comes with underfloor storage, boot dividers, tie-down hooks, shopping bag hooks and there is even a convenient storage space for the tonneau cover when not in use.
Additionally, the split-folding rear seatbacks can be folded to reveal a huge 1,248-litre space, if and when required. The spacious cabin features a “Blaze Cockpit” design that achieves a unique harmony of high-tech aesthetic sensibilities for a fun and pleasant driving experience.
The advanced driver interface showcases KGM’s fast, intuitive and smart technology, including a 12.3” digital cluster, a 9” infotainment touchscreen, mood lighting, and a wireless phone charger.
The infotainment screen provides a convenient charging control system, allowing prescheduled charging, target charging, and a clear display of the charging status. A full charge (0-100%) via a domestic wallbox charger can be completed in around 11 hours, and by using a DC ultra-fast (100kW) charger, you can achieve a 10-80% charge in as little as 33 minutes. The e-Motion has a WLTP official electric range of up to 339km on a combined driving cycle, with up to 474km achievable in city-only driving.
The all-electric Korando e-Motion combines the practicality of an SUV, with the sustainability and low running costs associated with an EV. The e-Motion is the ultimate marriage of sophisticated Korean DNA with the latest in vehicle technologies, and it is the safest and sturdiest Korando ever built.
A best-in-class body structure composed of 77% high tensile strength steel provides enhanced occupant safety, and it was awarded a full five star Euro NCAP rating.
A total of 8 airbags come as standard, including a driver-knee airbag and front-seat side airbags for enhanced crash protection.
KGM’s advanced autonomous driving system also comes as standard, and it uses a camera and radar to analyse forward driving surroundings continually, and in dangerous situation, is capable of taking pre-emptive action to prevent an accident.
The Electric Brake Unit (EBU) system, which includes all the functions of Electronic Stability Control, provides the highest standard of braking performance, not only on slopes, but on all types of road surfaces for a safer driving experience.
My Korando e-Motion review car looked suitably modern and distinctive in its Grand White paintwork with contrasting black plastic body elements and wheel arch protectors, along with stylish 17-inch bi-tone alloy wheels.
Delivering 207PS (204bhp) and 360Nm of instant torque, the 61.5kWh battery provides drivers with powerful dynamic performance, while regenerative brakes transform the kinetic energy generated by braking into electrical energy for enhanced battery range.
The steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters allow the driver to control the level of regenerative braking for improved dynamic performance and energy efficiency. The Korando e-Motion’s chunky sidewall tyres and well-judged suspension do a great job of soaking up rutted road surfaces with ease, ensuring occupant comfort and refinement in the process. Comfort is further enhanced by multi-density foam seat cushions that offer excellent support for the shoulders, back, and other critical pressure points, and there is ample space to facilitate easy entry and exit. Additional standard comfort features include a sliding front centre armrest with storage, a sunglasses holder, a deep glovebox, and front door pockets that can accommodate a large and a small bottle at the same time.
Also included is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with a host of infotainment, convenience, safety and mechanical features.
The high-set driving position provides a commanding view of the road ahead, allowing the driver to feel safer and more confident behind the wheel. With its cutting-edge tech, precise and responsive handling, and instant power delivery, the Korando e-Motion is a real pleasure to drive.
With its distinctive and purposeful design that incorporates an enclosed front grille and blue accents in the light clusters, along with its spacious, comfortable and well-equipped cabin, the new KGM Korando e-Motion is a pure-electric SUV with genuine appeal.
Total peace-of-mind motoring comes courtesy of a standard 5-year, unlimited mileage manufacturer’s warranty. The Korando e-Motion is priced at €46,000 (excluding current Irish Government EV incentives, where applicable).