Ssangyong Rexton SUV continues testing in India
For those in the dark, the Ssangyong Rexton is a Korean SUV based on an old Mercedes M-Class. Ssangyong uses a 2.7-liter 5-cylinder turbo diesel engine which also employs Mercedes technology.
Another fun fact is the Rexton is the second SUV in India the relatively-affordable segments to ride on Mercedes Benz technology. The Force One is the first. Mahindra will introduce Ssangyong vehicles Rexton and Korando C (5 seater styled like the Captiva) in India to compete in segments above the XUV500.
Mahindra acquired Ssangyong last year and one of the reasons was that they felt Ssangyong products complement their lineup well. Since the acquisition, exports of the Korando C have started and sales is back on track. Mahindra and Ssangyong are also jointly developing platforms, one in India and another in Korea. The XIV concepts showcased in recent international auto shows hint at a compact crossover Ssangyong could introduce in the next two-three years.
Mahindra showcased the Rexton at the Delhi Auto Expo this year and IAB reader Sameer Bachhav (who earlier sent us pictures of the Mahindra XUV500) spotted the same variant (RX270) testing in Nashik where the Rexton maybe assembled later this year. Mahindra also has a production plant in Chakan where the XUV500 is made and the company has the option of utilizing this plant's capacity for supporting Ssangyong products.
Its a bit confusing at this point as to whether Mahindra will bring in the facelifted model seen testing in Korea and China, anticipated with new front and rear fascias. This is a cosmetic operation not involving mechanical changes.
Ssangyong updated the Rexton in 2010 with a new frontal collision warning and prevention system along with changes to engine and exhaust to curb emissions. The Rexton will hang out with the Renault Koleos and Toyota Fortuner and there's new company coming in the form of the Audi Q3 and next generation Hyundai Santa Fe.