The SsangYong Korando mid-sized SUV lineup in Australia has undergone a restructuring, with the discontinuation of the entry-level EX variant, leaving only the ELX and Ultimate versions available. Both variants are now exclusively powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and come with front-wheel drive, following the discontinuation of the 1.6-litre turbo-diesel all-wheel drive option last year.
SsangYong Australia confirmed that there had been no other specification changes for the Korando ELX and Ultimate for the 2024 model year. Despite the adjustments, the Korando continues to offer competitive features in its segment. Sales figures for the Korando indicate a modest performance compared to segment leaders like the Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Nissan X-Trail.
However, it has outperformed certain competitors in the mid-sized SUV category. The current generation SsangYong Korando, introduced in 2019, has not undergone any updates since its launch. While an electric version known as the Korando E-Motion is available in other markets, it was not brought to Australia despite initial evaluation.
SsangYong, operating under the name KG Mobility in other markets, is introducing the new Torres SUV to the Australian market. The Torres lineup will include petrol-powered models arriving in July, followed by an electric version called the Torres EVX in the fourth quarter of 2024.
In terms of pricing, there are now two SsangYong Korando variants offered locally: the 2024 SsangYong Korando ELX priced at $33,000 and the 2024 SsangYong Korando Ultimate priced at $38,000, both available as drive-away prices.
The powertrain for the entire SsangYong Korando range consists of a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 120kW of power and 280Nm of torque, paired with an Aisin-sourced six-speed automatic transmission sending power to the front wheels only. In terms of efficiency, the 2024 SsangYong Korando achieves a claimed combined fuel economy figure of 7.7L/100km.
It comes with a 47-litre fuel tank and requires a minimum of 95 RON premium unleaded petrol. The dimensions of the 2024 SsangYong Korando measure 4450mm long, 1870mm wide, and 1629mm tall, with a 2675mm wheelbase. The vehicle offers ample cargo space, with 407L with the rear seats upright, expanding to 1104L with them folded. Additionally, it has towing capabilities of up to 500kg for unbraked and 1500kg for braked trailers.
Servicing and warranty for the SsangYong Korando include a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty with seven years of roadside assistance. Logbook servicing is required every 12 months or 15,000km, with the first seven services capped at $295 each. Safety features of the SsangYong Korando include a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on Euro NCAP testing conducted in 2019.
The range comes equipped with autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic assist, lane-keep assist, lane change assist, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear-view camera. The Ultimate variant adds additional features such as adaptive cruise control with stop/go, lane centering, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Standard equipment for the Korando ELX includes 18-inch alloy wheels, halogen headlights, LED daytime running lights, proximity entry, and push-button start, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, and more.
The Ultimate variant adds premium features such as 19-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, privacy glass, a power tailgate, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, and premium leather upholstery. The 2024 SsangYong Korando is available in four exterior paint colors, with an additional cost for colors other than Grand White.
