Locally-assembled Ssangyong Korando to launch in India this year - Report

Aimed at the Nissan Terrano and Renault Duster. 

According to a report on the Financial Express, Mahindra is considering launching the Ssangyong Korando in India this year. The Korando has been spotted on test many a time, though until now, Mahindra officials have maintained that they are studying the compact SUV for a domestic launch without firming any plans.

The report cites sources as saying Mahindra would localize production of the Korando in order to arrive at a competitive price. The Indian UV specialist is aiming to take on the Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano and the forthcoming Hyundai ix25 with the Korando.

The Korando received a major facelift in August 2013. The facelift brought redesigned headlights with projector lights, a new grille and bumper, new alloy wheels and a new instrument console with soft-touch fabrics to the compact SUV.

Ssangyong also claimed an overall improvement to the NVH levels, and an 8.4 percent improvement in fuel efficiency. The Korando in Korea is offered with 2.0-liter petrol and diesel engines paired to 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions. The diesel engine comes in power states of 149 PS and 175 PS, while the petrol puts out 149 PS.

Also read: Ssangyong Tivoli EVR showcased at Seoul Motor Show 2015

Features such as 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, Hill Start Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, an electronic active head-restraint and rear parking sensors are seen on the Korando.

Rivals: Nissan Terrano, Renault Duster, Hyundai ix25
Expected Price: INR 10-15 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: 2015 (reported)

[Source - FinancialExpress]