Ssangyong Unveils 11-Seat Korando Turismo MPV
The auto maker says volumes have increased steadily since the 2011 takeover by Mahindra, and this year’s goal is to sell 150,000 vehicles globally compared with 120,717 in 2012.
Ssangyong rolls out the new 11-seat Korando Turismo multipurpose vehicle it hopes will bolster sales both in its home market of Korea and overseas.
Hoping to sell 10,000 of the MPVs this year, 50% as exports, Ssangyong shows the Korando Turismo at the Gangnam Seoul Trade Exhibition and Convention Center in the upscale Gangnam district featured in the viral-phenomenon music video by Korean pop singer Psy.
Indeed, in terms of looks the Turismo is a welcome replacement for the bulky Rodius, and the new MPV is affordably priced at between 24.8 million and 35.6 million won ($22,725 and $32,600). It is powered by an e-XDi200 low-torque diesel engine producing a maximum 155 hp at 4,000 rpm.
A choice of 6-speed manual or E-Tronic Benz 5-speed automatic transmission is offered in Korea.
The vehicle makes its international debut March 5 at the Geneva auto show, where it will appear with the same specs as the model unveiled in Seoul but with a different hood ornament.
Ssangyong says development of the Korando Turismo took more than two years and required an investment of 180 billion won ($165 million).
The new-model rollout is another positive step in the beleaguered auto maker’s turnaround efforts since being acquired by India’s Mahindra & Mahindra in 2011 for $463.6 million.
The auto maker says sales have exceeded 10,000 units in each of the past five months, and it recently opened an enlarged and better-equipped advanced-vehicle design center.
Spokesmen say deliveries have increased steadily since the M&M takeover, and Ssangyong’s 2013 goal is to sell 150,000 vehicles globally compared with 120,717 in 2012.
About the Author
You May Also Like
