SsangYong unveils the international Rexton

The SsangYong Rexton is a body-on-frame SUV that went into a new generation in 2017, but never became particularly popular on the market. The South Korean company now unveils its “brand new” international version, which is technically a mid-gen refresh.

Compared side-by-side with its predecessor, the 2021 Rexton model sports an octagonal radiator grille, a new front bumper with smaller anti-fog lights, and LED-based headlights. The taillights get different lamps inside, and the rear bumper is slightly redesigned as well. At 4,850 mm (15.91 feet) long and 1,920 mm (6.3 ft.) wide, the car is identical to the pre-facelift version in two dimensions while gaining 25 mm (1”) of extra height (now 1,825 mm / 6 ft.). The wheelbase spans 2,865 mm (9.4 ft.), and the clearance amounts to 224 mm (8.75”). Unlike the Korean spec with its 18-inch wheels, the worldwide model offers a choice of wheel sizes from 17 to 20 inches.

Inside, there are new door cards, a four-spoke steering wheel, a 12.3-inch digital dash cluster, a fixed-position gear joystick coming to replace the regular lever, and better overall trim materials. The infotainment system gets an update to support satellite navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a nine-inch touchscreen display that displays the video from the 360-degree cameras. The base trim includes a non-digital dash with a B&W screen and an eight-inch central display. Customers can opt for up to nine airbags. The Korea-spec Rexton always comes with five seats, while the global spec has an optional third row. Trunk size amounts to 784 liters (27.7 cubic feet), but increases to 1,977 liters (69.82 cu. ft.) with the second row folded down.

The 2.2-liter e-XDi turbo diesel remains in the range, but raises the output to 202 PS (200 hp / 150 kW) and 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque. The old Mercedes 7G-tronic automatic makes way for a new eight-speed auto transmission. Select countries will receive the new Rexton with the old 2.0-liter gasoline turbo four-pot rated at 225 PS (222 hp / 165 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, which can be paired with a six-speed manual or six-speed Aisin auto gearbox. Rear-wheel drive is standard for all specs, but AWD with its hard coupling on the front axle and reduction gear remains available. The power steering mechanism is now electric, rather than hydraulic.

Options include AEB, ACC, blind zone monitor, lane control and trailer assist. The diesel version can tow trailers weighing up to 3 metric tons (6,600 lbs).

The SsangYong Rexton hits the market in Europe next March.