SsangYong

Ladder frame construction body-on-frame. 2.2L e-XDi220 diesel 202hp. 441Nm torque impressive. Mercedes-Benz 7G-Tronic 7-speed automatic. RWD standard rear-wheel drive. Part-time 4WD optional. 4WD with low range transfer case. Borg Warner transfer case. Electronic 4WD control. 4850mm length substantial. 2865mm wheelbase long. 2145kg curb weight. Seven-seat three-row configuration. Five-seat option available. Premium interior materials. Nappa leather available. Ventilated front seats. Heated rear seats. 9.2in touchscreen infotainment. TomTom navigation integrated. Apple CarPlay standard. Android Auto compatibility. 360-degree camera system. Blind spot monitoring. Lane change assist. Autonomous emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control. Forward collision warning. Rear cross traffic alert. High beam assist. Driver attention warning. E-call emergency system. Towing capacity 3500kg impressive. Off-road capability genuine. Approach angle 18.3 degrees. Departure angle 23.5 degrees. Wading depth 500mm. Multi-terrain traction control. Hill descent control standard. Hill start assist. Differential lock rear. Premium flagship positioning. Value proposition excellent. European market focus. Korean SUV excellence.

Body-on-frame SUV construction. 2.7L XDi diesel 165hp initially. 2.0L e-XDi diesel 155hp later. 2.7L XDi upgrade 186hp. 3.2L petrol V6 220hp optional. Mercedes-Benz automatic transmission sourced. 5-speed automatic. AWD system standard. Part-time 4WD selectable. Low range transfer case. 4750mm length. 2830mm wheelbase. 2095kg curb weight. Seven-seat configuration. Genuine off-road capability. Ladder frame durability. Towing capacity excellent 3000kg+. Basic interior by modern standards. Functional design approach. Reliability focused. Korean market strong. Export markets Europe Australia. Value SUV positioning. Rugged construction emphasis.

Unibody monocoque construction modern. 1.5L turbo petrol 163hp. 280Nm torque. 1.6L e-XDi diesel 136hp. 324Nm diesel torque. 6-speed automatic Aisin. 6-speed manual option diesel. FWD standard front-wheel drive. AWD optional all-wheel drive. 4465mm length compact. 2675mm wheelbase. 1545kg curb weight petrol. Compact SUV design contemporary. LED headlights standard. 10.25in touchscreen infotainment. 12.3in digital cluster optional. Apple CarPlay wireless. Android Auto wireless. TomTom navigation. Wireless phone charging. ADAS comprehensive suite. Forward collision avoidance. Lane keeping assist. Blind spot collision avoidance. Rear cross traffic collision avoidance. Safe exit assist. Intelligent adaptive cruise. High beam assist. Driver attention warning. Electrochromic mirror. Heated steering wheel. Ventilated front seats. Panoramic sunroof. Electric tailgate. Premium audio system. European design influence. Italian styling cues. Modern Korean SUV. Competitive compact segment.

Unibody construction transition. 2.0L e-XDi diesel 175hp. 360Nm torque substantial. 2.0L petrol 149hp optional. 6-speed automatic standard. 6-speed manual available. FWD standard. AWD optional. 4410mm length. 2650mm wheelbase. 1665kg curb weight. Compact SUV body style. Giorgetto Giugiaro design. ItalDesign collaboration. European styling influence. Modern appearance significant upgrade. Interior quality improvement. Touchscreen infotainment. Bluetooth connectivity. Climate control automatic. Parking sensors. Rear camera. Safety features enhanced. ABS standard. ESP standard. Multiple airbags. Hill start assist. Korean compact SUV competitive. European export focus. Value positioning maintained.

New platform development. 1.5L turbo petrol 170hp. 280Nm torque. 6-speed automatic Aisin. FWD standard. AWD optional. 4700mm length. 2680mm wheelbase. 1690kg curb weight. Five-seat SUV configuration. Boxy retro-modern design. Bold styling statement. Squared proportions. Upright greenhouse. Distinctive character. LED lighting signature. 12.3in touchscreen. 12.3in digital instruments. Connected car services. Smartphone integration wireless. Over-the-air updates. ADAS Level 2 features. Adaptive cruise control. Lane centering assist. Blind spot monitoring. Parking assistance. 360-degree camera. Forward collision prevention. Rear cross traffic alert. Safe exit warning. Premium interior quality. Sustainable materials used. Eco-friendly approach. Recycled plastics interior. Paperette seats vegan leather. Lifestyle positioning. Urban adventure focus. Distinctive brand direction. Korean design confidence. Export market expansion planned.

Body-on-frame pickup platform. 2.2L e-XDi220 diesel 202hp. 441Nm torque substantial. Mercedes-Benz 7G-Tronic automatic. 6-speed automatic transmission. RWD base model. Part-time 4WD optional. Low range transfer case. Borg Warner transfer case. 5095mm length. 3100mm wheelbase long. 2040kg curb weight. Double cab configuration. Five-seat interior. 1 tonne payload capacity. 3500kg towing capacity class-leading. Approach angle 19.4 degrees. Departure angle 21.9 degrees. Wading depth 500mm. Multi-terrain traction control. Hill descent control. Hill start assist. Rear differential lock. 9.2in touchscreen. Apple CarPlay standard. Android Auto. TomTom navigation. DAB radio. Bluetooth connectivity. Rear camera. Parking sensors. ADAS features available. Forward collision warning. Lane departure warning. Autonomous emergency braking. Blind spot detection. Rear cross traffic alert. High beam assist. Lifestyle pickup positioning. Recreational use focus. Towing capability emphasis. Commercial duty capable. European pickup market. Australian market strong. Value pickup proposition.

The Mercedes-licensed five-cylinder diesel that established SsangYong's reputation for unbreakable reliability. This 2,297cc inline-five featured a cast-iron block with an aluminum cylinder head and indirect injection using a Bosch VE rotary pump. The turbocharger was a KKK K14 unit with mechanical wastegate set at 10.1 psi, providing boost from 1,800 RPM. The valve train used a single overhead camshaft operating ten valves through rocker arms with mechanical adjusters. The crankshaft ran in six main bearings with a vibration damper on the front pulley to control the inherent imbalance of the five-cylinder configuration. With 22.0:1 compression and a glow plug system with automatic timer, it produced 92 hp at 4,000 RPM and 133 lb-ft at 2,400 RPM. The engine's legendary durability came from its industrial-grade construction—the block could withstand cylinder pressures up to 130 bar, and the cylinder head used individual port liners to prevent cracking. The oiling system featured a gear-type pump with relief valve and full-flow filtration, capable of operating in temperatures from -30°C to +50°C without modification.

The Mercedes-sourced gasoline engine that provided SsangYong with modern emissions compliance and refinement. This 2,295cc DOHC inline-four featured an aluminum block with cast-iron liners and 16 valves arranged in a pent-roof combustion chamber. The valve train employed hydraulic lash adjusters and a timing chain designed for the life of the engine. The fuel system used sequential multi-point injection with hot-film air mass meter. The intake manifold used a dual-stage design with butterfly valves that switched from long to short runners at 4,200 RPM. With 10.0:1 compression and a 6,200 RPM redline, it produced 148 hp at 5,500 RPM and 155 lb-ft at 4,000 RPM. The engine's refinement was significantly improved over previous SsangYong powerplants, with a balancer shaft that reduced second-order vibrations and an acoustic engine cover that minimized induction noise. The cooling system used a cross-flow radiator with electric fan, while the oil system employed a variable-displacement vane pump that reduced parasitic losses at high RPM.

The modern common-rail diesel developed in partnership with Mercedes-Benz that brought SsangYong into the 21st century. This 1,998cc DOHC inline-four featured a cast-iron block with aluminum head and common-rail direct injection operating at 23,200 psi. The turbocharger was a variable-geometry Garrett GT17 unit with electronic actuator. The valve train employed hydraulic lifters and four valves per cylinder optimized for diesel combustion. With 17.5:1 compression and a Bosch EDC16 engine management system, it produced 149 hp at 4,000 RPM and 214 lb-ft from 1,800 to 3,000 RPM. The engine's innovation was its 'wave-piston' design that created optimal air-fuel mixing through precise bowl geometry, reducing particulate matter by 40% compared to previous designs. The balancing shaft system used helical gears for quiet operation, while the dual-mass flywheel eliminated diesel vibration at idle. This engine demonstrated that SsangYong could compete with European manufacturers in refinement while maintaining traditional Korean value positioning.

The first fully in-house gasoline engine that signaled SsangYong's growing technical independence. This 1,998cc DOHC inline-four featured an aluminum block with cast-iron liners and continuous variable valve timing on the intake camshaft. The cylinder head used a 16-valve design with 34.5° included valve angle and high-tumble intake ports. The fuel system employed multi-point injection with a returnless fuel rail design. The crankshaft ran in five main bearings with eight counterweights, while the connecting rods were fracture-split powdered metal. With 10.5:1 compression and a two-stage variable-length intake manifold, it produced 149 hp at 6,000 RPM and 148 lb-ft at 4,600 RPM. The engine's development focused on real-world driveability rather than peak power, with 90% of peak torque available from 2,000 to 5,500 RPM. The thermal management system featured a dual-circuit cooling design with an electrically heated thermostat for rapid warm-up, crucial for meeting Korea's stringent emissions standards during cold starts.

The turbocharged gasoline engine that represented SsangYong's entry into the modern downsized powertrain era. This 1,597cc DOHC inline-four featured an aluminum block with cast-iron liners and a BorgWarner turbocharger with electronic wastegate. The valve train employed continuous variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust cams with 40° of phasing range. The fuel system used direct injection operating at 2,900 psi with six-hole solenoid injectors. With 10.0:1 compression and 16.0 psi of boost, it produced 174 hp at 5,000 RPM and 184 lb-ft from 1,500-4,500 RPM. The engine's innovation was its 'integrated exhaust manifold' that reduced turbo lag by 30% compared to conventional designs. The balancing system used a counter-rotating balancer shaft with eccentric weights that cancelled 92% of secondary vibrations. The cooling system employed a dual-thermostat design with separate cooling for cylinder head and block, while the oil system featured piston cooling jets for sustained high-load operation.

The modern common-rail diesel that powered SsangYong's flagship SUV with towing-capable torque. This 2,157cc DOHC inline-four featured a reinforced cast-iron block with aluminum head and common-rail injection operating at 29,000 psi. The turbocharger was a variable-geometry Honeywell unit with electronic actuator and water-cooled bearing housing. The valve train employed roller rockers and four valves per cylinder with 18.0:1 compression ratio. With a Bosch EDC17 engine management system, it produced 181 hp at 4,000 RPM and 310 lb-ft from 1,600-2,600 RPM. The engine's masterpiece was its 'two-stage turbocharging' system that used a smaller turbo for low-RPM response and a larger turbo for high-RPM power, providing 90% of peak torque from 1,400 to 2,800 RPM. The emissions system included a diesel particulate filter with active regeneration and selective catalytic reduction using AdBlue injection. The oiling system featured a variable-displacement vane pump and piston cooling jets capable of sustaining maximum torque during extended mountain passes with full payload.

The Mercedes-derived inline-five that provided smooth, refined power for SsangYong's premium models. This 2,696cc DOHC inline-five featured an aluminum block with cast-iron liners and 20 valves arranged in a pent-roof combustion chamber. The valve train employed hydraulic lash adjusters and a maintenance-free timing chain. The fuel system used sequential multi-point injection with individual coil-on-plug ignition. The intake manifold used a dual-stage design with resonance flaps that optimized torque delivery across the rev range. With 10.0:1 compression and a 6,000 RPM redline, it produced 186 hp at 6,000 RPM and 193 lb-ft at 4,000 RPM. The engine's refinement was exceptional for a SsangYong product, with two balancer shafts that completely cancelled the inherent vibrations of the five-cylinder configuration. The cooling system used a dual-circuit design with an auxiliary transmission oil cooler integrated into the radiator. Though not particularly powerful by modern standards, this engine delivered the smooth, turbine-like power delivery that luxury SUV buyers expected.

The latest three-cylinder turbo that demonstrates SsangYong's commitment to efficiency without sacrificing capability. This 1,499cc DOHC inline-three features an aluminum block with plasma-coated cylinder bores and a BorgWarner turbocharger with electronic wastegate. The valve train employs continuous variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust cams. The fuel system uses 350-bar direct injection with high-tumble intake ports. The balancing system uses a Lanchester balancer shaft with counter-rotating weights that cancel 95% of primary vibrations. With 10.5:1 compression and 18.0 psi of boost, it produces 163 hp at 5,500 RPM and 206 lb-ft from 1,500-4,000 RPM. The engine's innovation is its 'Miller-cycle' operation achieved through early intake valve closing, which improves thermal efficiency to 38% while maintaining the low-end torque necessary for SUV applications. The thermal management system uses a split-cooling circuit with dual thermostats, while the cylinder head integrates the exhaust manifold for rapid catalyst light-off. This engine represents SsangYong's most advanced powertrain to date, proving that the company can develop competitive modern engines while maintaining its traditional rugged character.

The rugged 5-speed manual transmission used in first-generation Musso models, designed to handle the high torque of Mercedes-sourced diesel engines. This transmission featured heavy-duty synchronizers on all forward gears, with double-cone units on second and third gears for smoother shifting despite the high rotational inertia of diesel engines. The case was cast from high-strength aluminum alloy with reinforced mounting points to withstand off-road vibrations and impacts. The shift mechanism used a rod-linkage system with hardened steel bushings, providing positive gear engagement even in extreme temperatures. The transfer case for 4WD models featured a robust chain-drive system with a vacuum-operated engagement mechanism, offering both high and low ranges for serious off-road capability. The transmission was designed for easy serviceability, with replaceable bronze shift bushings and accessible drain/fill plugs for maintenance in field conditions.

The sophisticated 6-speed automatic transmission sourced from Mercedes-Benz and used in modern Korando models. This electronic transmission featured adaptive shift control that learned driving patterns and adjusted shift points accordingly. The torque converter incorporated a lock-up clutch that could engage in multiple gears for improved fuel efficiency, while still providing smooth power delivery characteristic of luxury vehicles. The transmission offered both comfort and sport modes, with sport mode holding gears longer during acceleration and providing more aggressive downshifts during braking. The hydraulic control system used precision solenoids for smooth clutch application, and the transmission fluid was cooled through a dedicated heat exchanger. For 4WD models, the transmission was paired with an electronically controlled transfer case that could vary torque distribution between front and rear axles based on traction conditions. The overall design prioritized refinement while maintaining the durability expected from a SsangYong SUV.

The modern 7-speed automatic transmission used in Rexton models, featuring a wide ratio spread for both performance and efficiency. This transmission employed advanced electronic controls that monitored driving style, road gradient, and vehicle load to select optimal gear ratios. The torque converter used a centrifugal pendulum vibration absorber that allowed early lock-up clutch engagement without compromising refinement. Multiple drive modes included Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Winter, with Winter mode starting in second gear to reduce wheelspin on slippery surfaces. The hydraulic system operated with high-pressure linear solenoids for precise clutch control, and the transmission featured a built-in warming function for cold-weather operation. For 4WD versions, the transmission was mated to an advanced transfer case with multiple modes including 2H, 4H, and 4L, with electronic control providing seamless transitions between driving modes. The gear sets were shot-peened for durability, and the transmission was designed to handle the substantial torque output of SsangYong's 2.2L diesel engine.

The modern 6-speed manual transmission designed for the Tivoli compact SUV, balancing efficiency with driving engagement. This transmission featured carbon-lined synchronizers on all forward gears for light shift effort and positive engagement. The shift mechanism used a cable-operated system with minimal play, providing precise gate selection and a modern, crisp shift feel. The gear ratios were carefully selected, with closely spaced intermediate ratios for responsive acceleration and an overdrive sixth gear for quiet highway cruising and improved fuel economy. The case was manufactured using high-pressure die-cast aluminum for light weight and dimensional accuracy. The clutch system employed a hydraulically actuated release bearing that eliminated the need for periodic adjustment, while the disc used a ceramic-organic facing material that provided smooth engagement and good heat resistance. The complete transmission was designed for compact packaging to fit within the Tivoli's efficient platform architecture while maintaining the durability expected from a SsangYong vehicle.

The durable 5-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic manual control used in Kyron models. This transmission featured Mercedes-Benz-derived technology with adaptive electronic controls that adjusted shift patterns based on driving style. The torque converter used a multi-plate lock-up clutch that could slip continuously in higher gears, reducing fluid coupling losses for improved efficiency. The Tiptronic function allowed manual gear selection through the shift lever, with the transmission control unit preventing over-revving while still allowing redline operation in each gear. The hydraulic system employed robust solenoid valves designed for long service life, and the transmission fluid was cooled through an auxiliary radiator mounted in front of the main engine cooler. For 4WD versions, the transmission was paired with a transfer case featuring electronic mode selection between 2WD, 4WD High, and 4WD Low ranges. The transmission was particularly noted for its smooth shift quality and ability to handle the high torque output of the Kyron's 2.0L and 2.7L diesel engines under demanding conditions.

The heavy-duty 5-speed automatic transmission designed for the Actyon Sports pickup truck. This transmission was engineered to handle both the high torque of diesel engines and the additional loads associated with hauling and towing. The gear sets used wider teeth and stronger materials than passenger car transmissions, with shot-peened surfaces for improved fatigue resistance. The torque converter featured an enlarged lock-up clutch with increased plate count for better heat dissipation during sustained load. The transmission control module incorporated specific programming for trailer towing, with revised shift points that minimized frequent gear changes on inclines and provided more engine braking during descents. The hydraulic system used high-capacity pumps and coolers to maintain optimal fluid temperatures under heavy use. The transmission was paired with a robust transfer case for 4WD models that included a true low-range gear reduction for serious off-road and heavy towing applications. The overall design prioritized durability and heat management over lightweight construction, making it well-suited for commercial and utility use.

The modern 8-speed automatic transmission used in Rexton Sports pickup models, featuring advanced electronics for both performance and efficiency. This transmission offered a wide 7.0:1 ratio spread, with closely spaced lower gears for strong acceleration and tall overdrive ratios for relaxed highway cruising. The torque converter incorporated a torsional damper with centrifugal pendulum technology that canceled out engine vibrations, allowing aggressive lock-up strategies for improved fuel economy. Multiple drive modes included Normal, Eco, and Sport, with Sport mode providing faster shifts and more aggressive downshifts during braking. The transmission also featured a dedicated Tow mode that adjusted shift patterns for heavy loads, minimizing gear hunting on grades and providing more engine braking during descent. The hydraulic control system used high-precision linear solenoids for smooth clutch application, and the transmission included a warming function for optimal operation in cold climates. The gear sets were manufactured using super-finishing processes for reduced friction and improved efficiency, while still maintaining the strength required for pickup truck applications.

Founded in 1954 by Ha Dong-hwan during the Korean War period with initial Jeep assembly and military vehicle production, SsangYong developed commercial vehicle focus before SUV specialization emerged through 1980s Korando heritage building four-wheel-drive expertise, body-on-frame construction, and rugged vehicle reputation. The pivotal 1991 Mercedes partnership brought significant technology elevation and continuous quality improvement enabling global export growth through European market entry, Australian market success, and UK sales establishment with Rexton flagship, Musso pickup, and Tivoli crossover expansion culminating in the modern Torres design. Electric vehicle development and ongoing platform modernization position this Korean SUV manufacturer in niche markets through value proposition focus emphasizing durability, core off-road capability, and towing performance strength from Pyeongtaek plant production. As a Korean automotive industry member maintaining independent SUV specialist status with distinctive brand identity, the 2022 KG Mobility rebranding under new ownership brings stability. SsangYong's survival through multiple bankruptcies and ownership changes demonstrates resilience in a brutal industry—the brand carved a niche focusing on rugged utility vehicles and value pricing rather than chasing premium positioning, proving that specialization in unfashionable segments like body-on-frame SUVs and pickups can sustain manufacturers when pursued authentically. The Mercedes technology partnership elevated credibility while the KG Mobility rebrand signals fresh chapter, validating that niche specialists can survive when costs stay controlled and products serve genuine needs rather than following trends that demand resources small independents cannot afford.