Ssangyong takes it 1-Tonne pick up and takes it racing, - Now this looks like fun.

Weekend of 3 & 4 June for the second round of motorsports’ newest race series 

The SsangYong Musso Pick-up Racing Challenge - UK Motorsports’ newest race series, will line-up for three races plus qualifying at the second of six meetings this year at Silverstone on Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 June.

The series launched at Snetterton over the weekend of 13/14 May, when 12 SsangYong Musso Pick-ups took to the field, and follows the highly successful format running in New Zealand. 

The single make series is based on the production SsangYong Musso 1-tonne Pick-up sold in the UK, sporting a sealed 2.2 litre turbo diesel engine and running gear. Changes to the vehicle are limited to full safety equipment in compliance with RACMSA regulations, specially developed suspension dampers by Proflex and wheels from Speedline Corse with AVON control tyres. 

The first weekend of three 15-minute races was held in mixed weather conditions, and led to some exciting close-quarter racing for competitors in this brand-new manufacturer supported series. 

After qualifying, racing got underway on a rolling start, and after three races of thrills and spills – and a long night for the mechanics to have the grid ready for day two, Lewis Grant left Snetterton leading the standings. 

Commenting on his success, Lewis Grant said: “The weekend went really well. I only sat in the car for the first time on Friday so to come away with two wins and a second place is brilliant. To drive a rear wheel drive car is a big change for me, so it took a little bit of getting used to. I am really impressed with the Musso and was surprised how well it handles, leading to some really close and competitive racing.” 

Runner-up, Harry Webb said: “I am really pleased to have won the final race of the weekend. The cars are pretty equal and produce some very close racing, so it was challenging, and very difficult to get past anyone. The SsangYong Musso is very different to anything I have driven before - it was fun.” 

Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK commenting on the first event said: “As a relatively new brand in the UK, we like to be different and try new initiatives. Pick-ups aren’t noted for their ability on a race track, but we had seen the success enjoyed in New Zealand, so thought we’d give it a go. 

“Despite a few inevitable teething issues from turning pick-ups into racing cars, the cars ran remarkably smoothly on their first outing at Snetterton, and with what we have learnt, bodes well for a great season. It’s a highly competitive format, and clear that drivers and supporters are already extremely enthusiastic.” 

The SsangYong Musso Pick-up Racing Challenge 2017 

Round 1	13 & 14 May	Snetterton	Double header
Round 2	3 & 4 June	Silverstone National	Double header
Round 3	8 & 9 July	Knockhill	Double header
Round 4	29 July	Oulton Park	Single header
Round 5	30 Sept	Cadwell Park	Single header
Round 6	28 & 29 Oct	Brands Hatch Indy	Double header
For the single header rounds, there are 2 races + qualifying
For the double header rounds, there are 3 races + qualifying

Ssangyong updates the Tivoli and Tivoli XLV with more safety enhancements for 2017.

• New safety features available include Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking System, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assistance, and Traffic Sign Recognition
• Tivoli priced from £13,300 & Tivoli XLV from £19,200
• 5-year limitless mileage warranty

The SsangYong Tivoli - the brand’s first B-segment SUV, retains its stylish good looks and class-leading levels of equipment and interior space, while also receiving a number of significant safety enhancements for 2017.

Safety features available include Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking System, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assistance, and Traffic Sign Recognition.

“This is a quantum leap forward in safety for cars in this class,” says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK.  “I am really proud of what our colleagues in Korea have achieved, and it means we can now offer cars that achieve the 4-star NCAP rating.”

Further enhancements for both driver and passengers include a fully adjustable steering wheel for rake and reach, improved ventilation for the front seat passengers, and reclining rear seats for optimum comfort on long journeys.  A new 2-position base for the boot floor also provides increased load carrying practicality and flexibility.

Tivoli XLV, the extended bodied multi-role ‘SUV estate’ derived from the Tivoli platform, also receives the same safety upgrades and improvements for 2017, with the addition of heated rear seats for extra passenger comfort in winter.

Ssangyong launches the new look Korando at the London Motor Show, with added kit too.

• Distinctive grille and headlights give Korando the new SsangYong ‘look’
• Spacious family accommodation for five
• 2-tonne towing capacity
• 4x4 available for a great off-road performance
• Four models from just £17,000 on the road
• 5-year limitless mileage warranty

The Korando SUV has been greatly enhanced for 2017 with a stylish and contemporary new front end design and with upgraded equipment.

The car sports a distinctive new grille and headlight treatment, adopting the new SsangYong ‘look’ first seen on the Tivoli and Tivoli XLV, and on the new Rexton announced recently.  This also includes new fog lights, lower valance and bonnet.  It  features daytime running lights using 11 high-luminescent LED lamps with separate lenses to improve visibility, and on the inside a new ergonomically designed steering wheel. 

There are four models in the range: the two-wheel drive SE at £17,000; SE 4x4, £18,500; ELX 4x4, £22,000; and ELX with automatic transmission from £23,500.  The new car goes on sale with immediate effect.

With its 2-tonne towing capacity, the Korando has always been popular with those needing to tow a caravan, horsebox or boat trailer.  With plenty of interior space, considerable legroom for all passengers, an almost completely flat floor and generous boot space - up to 1,312 litres, there’s room for bulky leisure equipment or a couple of large dogs.

All models come with electrically operated and heated door mirrors with puddle lamps, RDS radio and iPod & Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, tinted glass and roof rails.  The ELX adds a raft of additional equipment including front & rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, 7” touchscreen, RDS radio and TomTom sat nav, distinctive new 18” diamond-cut wheels, leather seats, heated steering wheel and heated front & rear seats.

The new Korando is powered by a turbo-charged, Euro 6 compliant 2.2 litre diesel.  Maximum power is 178ps and torque to 400Nm, with maximum torque delivered from a low of 1,400rpm and maintained through a wide range up to 2,800rpm for smooth, progressive driving from the start.  The engine can be matched with either a 6-speed manual or optional 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission for smooth, dynamic gear changing, comfortable driving and lively acceleration, and comes with either front wheel-drive, or an intelligent on-demand all-wheel drive system.

Ssangyong expands into the importation of commercial vehicles from DFSK.

Vehicle Import & Distribution Ltd, has been established by Bassadone Automotive, which also owns the UK importer and distributor of SsangYong 4x4 cars and light commercials, SsangYong Motor UK Ltd.

The setting-up of the new company will be overseen by Doug Lincoln, operations director.  With its head office and logistics centre in Luton, DFSK vehicles will arrive through the company’s own import reception and preparation centre at Portbury Docks, near Bristol.

The range, which will go on sale this summer, will initially comprise four models.  The C31 single cab minitruck, C32 double cab minitruck, C35 panel van, and the C37 minivan.  UK prices have yet to be announced, but expected to start from below £10,000.

All DFSK vehicles meet the latest emissions requirements, and are powered by 1500cc Euro 6B petrol engines.

Commented Doug Lincoln, “We believe there is a huge opportunity for DFSK in the UK.  From small independent businesses through to local authorities, cost-saving and value-for-money is today’s mantra.  Why pay more when a DFSK delivers such a great return on investment?

“We particularly see huge opportunities in metropolitan areas where the vehicles’ compact size, manoeuvrability and economical petrol engines are ideal for short, stop-start urban journeys.”

From launch, there will be a network of service centres nationwide, with retail outlets located strategically.

“Good and well-priced aftersales service is vital in this sector of the market,” says Mr Lincoln.  “We want to get that right and build customer confidence in the product and servicing before pushing for volume sales.”

The New Musso from Ssangyong has had it's load capacity increased to 3.5 Tonne of towing capability.

• Towing capability increased to 3.5 tonnes
• 1 tonne payload and 2.04m² load bed to carry a Euro pallet
• 2.2 litre Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine
• 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission
• Best value pick-up from just £16,395 ex VAT 

SsangYong has announced an increase in the towing capacity of its Musso one-tonne pick-up to 3,500kg following approval by the VCA - the UK Vehicle Certification Agency responsible for Vehicle Type Approval.

Powered by a smooth and refined 2.2 litre Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine, the Musso pick-up delivers huge value. 

Designed to appeal to those who need a competitively priced work truck, the practicality of 4-wheel drive, the towing capability to haul up to 3.5 tonnes yet also the appointments of a family car, it’s ideal for towing a horse box, boat or work trailer. 

“This is great news for customers looking for a value for money pick-up and who need to tow a heavy trailer,” says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK.

“With one of the most powerful engines in its class, a refined automatic gearbox and car like ride - thanks to its multilink rear suspension, Musso sales have really taken off since its launch last autumn”, adds Mr Williams. “Tough and robust with a specification, price and warranty no others can match, the facts clearly position the Musso as the top value truck in the pick-up market.” 

The Musso features a newly developed Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine to meet the demand for a more powerful performance and lower CO₂ emissions at the same time. Maximum power is 178PS and torque 400Nm, with maximum torque delivered from a low of 1,400rpm and maintained through a wide range up to 2,800rpm for smooth, progressive driving from the start.

The Musso is fitted with multi-link rear suspension and progressive rear coil springs - the only pick-up at this price to offer such a system - which gives a relaxed and comfortable car-like ride, while also carrying over a tonne weight on its load deck. 

There are two models in the range. The SE includes a new-look front grille and dashboard, as well as silver finish 18” alloy wheels and hard wearing ‘leather look’ TPU seat upholstery. It is priced from just £16,395 ex VAT. 

The EX is distinguished by black 18” alloy wheels, roof rails, front LED daytime running lights, leather with heated front seats, power operated driver’s seat, automatic air conditioning, automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers, 7” touchscreen RDS radio with iPod and Bluetooth. The EX with manual transmission is priced at £18,395 ex VAT, and with a six speed Aisin automatic £19,395 ex VAT.

5-year limitless mileage warranty

As with all models in the SsangYong LCV range, the Musso one tonne pick-up is covered by a 5-year limitless mileage warranty. 

Designed to be totally transparent and give customers complete peace of mind, ‘limitless’ means just that: not a maximum mileage condition that some brands impose in their small print. 

All the major mechanical components are covered including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock absorbers and even the audio system. Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles, and the battery and paintwork for three years.

The all New Ssangyong Rexton - a huge leap forward for the flagship model.

SSANGYONG REXTON WORLD PREMIER 

• New SsangYong flagship delivers style, a great driving experience, high levels of safety and new technology
• Authentic SUV inherits its DNA from original Rexton
• 2 litre turbo diesel engine offers powerful performance, 4-wheel drive and 7-speed Mercedes-Benz automatic transmission 

SsangYong Motor Company has unveiled its new Rexton SUV at the Seoul Motor Show. 

This world premiere took place in the company of Anand Mahindra, chairman of Mahindra & Mahindra, Johng-sik Choi, CEO of SsangYong Motor and international guests. 

Unveiling the new car, Johng-sik Choi said: ”Following the launch of Tivoli which set new standards for compact SUVs, the new Rexton will confirm SsangYong as a leading producer of large premium SUVs with traditional 4x4 values. 

“We plan to build a full line-up of SUVs by introducing a new product every year over the next few years, including a brand-new pick-up truck. We will also focus our resources on creating further growth by developing an EV and other eco-friendly vehicles for the future.” 

As a new and authentic SUV, Rexton will help SsangYong re-establish its brand internationally, and draws on the original Rexton for its iconic flagship status. 

With growing demand from around the world for cars with strong off-road driving performance and good towing capabilities to meet the growth in leisure interests, SsangYong expects to see further applications of its body-on-frame, front engine/rear drive layout in large SUVs. This will further consolidate the company’s reputation as a specialist SUV manufacturer. 

The new car embodies robust and dynamic SUV styling and blends drivability with high levels of safety that includes nine airbags. With a front mounted engine, rear-wheel drive and 4x4, Rexton will be a class-leading contender. It will offer excellent driving characteristics on and off-road, balanced weight distribution, great towing capability and good NVH performance. 

SsangYong expects this new generation Rexton to compete with traditional D & E segment SUVs, and will continue the renewal of SsangYong’s brand identity which began with the launch of Tivoli. Inheriting the DNA of the original Rexton flagship, it will also further underpin the company’s reputation as Korea's oldest vehicle manufacturer and only 4x4 and SUV specialist producer. 

Style revolution 

Developed under the project name of Y400 and seen as the LIV-2 concept at the Paris motor show in September 2016, the new car will be known internationally as Rexton, and G4 Rexton in Korea. The car takes its inspiration from the ‘Dignified Motion’ of SsangYong’s design language, ‘Nature-born 3 Motion’. 

The look of this strong, authentic SUV is informed by restrained sensitivity. This fresh, modern and appealing style has been created through the fusion of its robust, dignified body, dramatic-look air intakes, and a cohesive appearance at the front that blends the grille and headlights seamlessly. 

The radiator grille resembles the spread wings of a bird in flight - first seen on Tivoli and symbolising liberty and freedom, and this new front end design will now be shared across all future SsangYong models to create a distinctive and recognisable new identity for the marque. 

Additionally, the strong character lines on the car’s side - especially towards the back where they rise up towards the rear bumper, and again first seen on the Tivoli, will also become another styling cue for SsangYong. 

The smooth A-pillar and wide D-pillar show a contrast to give a pleasant yet strong image. Furthermore, Rexton is the first SUV in the domestic market to offer 20-inch wheels, adding to the stylish and luxurious look. Daytime running lights and LED fog, side and indicator lights add to this premium image. 

With a refined and luxurious interior, there is a choice of seat styles including full leather seats trimmed in high grade Nappa leather, complete with a memory system to save the driver’s preferred seat and door mirror positions. A luxurious quilted stitch seat pattern also helps to hold the body in position, while aiding passenger comfort. 

There is a high level of passenger convenience and the largest load space in the segment thanks to optimised interior space design. This wide interior ensures the highest levels of comfort for passengers, and the only model in its segment that can carry rear seat passengers and four golf bags in the boot. 

Driving revolution 

The Rexton powertrain employs a 2.2 litre turbo diesel engine and Mercedes-Benz 7-speed automatic transmission. This highly efficient and quiet e-XDi220 engine delivers progressive acceleration from a standing start, and a strong low end torque typical of SsangYong engines. 

The Mercedes-Benz 7-speed automatic transmission, renowned for its smooth performance and durability also responds quickly for more dynamic driving. 

A highly efficient 2.0 litre turbo petrol engine will also be offered, matched to an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission. 

The car’s 4-wheel drive system draws on SsangYong’s years of experience in 4WD technology. With rear wheel drive under normal driving conditions for comfort and fuel efficiency, there is also 4WD with high/low ratios for when on and off-road conditions demand. A combination of double wishbone suspension at the front and multi-link independent suspension at the rear ensures a high level of driving stability. 

Safety revolution 

The Rexton will be one of the safest cars in its class, with nine airbags including knee-airbag for the driver and side-airbags in the rear. 

Constructed using a quad-frame body structure using 1.5Gpa-grade high-strength steel - a world first, it also features 63% advanced high strength steel to create greatly improved body strength while reducing weight. Advanced driver assistance systems include Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection and a Front Vehicle Start Alarm to ensure optimum safety for passengers. 3D Around View Monitoring is featured for the first time in its domestic market to provide a clear view of the area surrounding the car to increase safety and driver convenience during low-speed driving and parking. 

High-tech revolution 

An advanced infotainment system is installed in the car, and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with device mirroring, with everything including navigation displayed in HD on a wide 9.20-inch screen. With excellent connectivity, it ensures quality entertainment and enjoyment on the move. 

Other features include Auto Closing (the doors lock automatically when the key is carried away from the car), Easy Access (the driver’s seat position is automatically adjusted for easy access when the door opens), high-performing, dual-zone fully automated air-conditioning that filters even fine dust, a 220V/115V inverter in the load area, and a ‘smart tailgate’ for added convenience when loading and unloading the boot. (This automatically opens the tailgate when holding the key next to the car for more than three seconds). 

Rexton is 4,850mm long, 1,920mm wide, 1,800mm high, and has a 2,865mm wheelbase. 

The car will go on sale in Korea during the first half of this year, and internationally before the end of 2017. 

SsangYong Turismo Tourist voted the Motorhome Design Awards top Micro Motorhome

• SsangYong Turismo Tourist voted the Motorhome Design Awards top Micro Motorhome
• Fully equipped luxury 4-berth Turismo Tourist camper
• 2.2 litre diesel Euro 6 engine
• 4x4 and 7-speed Mercedes-Benz automatic transmission available
• Class leading 5-year limitless mileage warranty

Just two months after its launch, the SsangYong Turismo Tourist has won the Micro Motorhome category in the Caravan and Motorhome Club* Motorhome Design Awards 2017.

Based on a standard SsangYong Turismo MPV and converted by Wellhouse Leisure, the new Tourist is over 5 metres long, and with a 3-metre wheelbase creates the perfect camper.  

Larger than a standard sized people carrier, the Turismo is powered by a 2.2 litre Euro 6 diesel engine, and is available with the choice of a 6-speed manual transmission or new Mercedes-Benz 7-speed automatic, and with the option of two-wheel drive or 4x4.

“We are absolutely delighted that the Turismo Tourist has won this award, and so soon after its launch,” says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK.  “All credit to Wellhouse Leisure who have done an excellent job in creating such a great vehicle for the booming leisure market.”

Judges from the Caravan and Motorhome Club Motorhome Design Awards panel said:  “The Turismo Tourist is a highly innovative design on the original SsangYong vehicle - interesting, well-made and cleverly thought out.  It is a great concept that supports a huge range of leisure activities, and with real practical appeal for outdoor enthusiasts by offering a superb towcar, four-wheel drive and accommodation all rolled into one.”

The campervan comprises a colour-matched elevating roof, driver and passenger folding seats to create twin beds with in-fill cushions and memory foam toppers, sliding glass top hob for indoor or outdoor use, a small sink, gas bottle, 12v charging system, 25ltr compressor fridge, fresh and waste water containers, portable toilet, and all woodwork made from lightweight ply.

Prices for the Turismo Tourist start at £29,995, and options include Eberspacher heating, mains hook-up, tailgate awning, side awning and a solar panel.