Korea - A fleet of Ssangyong Korando facelifts is ready to be shipped

05/08/2013 - 17:04 | ,  ,   | Anjan Ravi

The Ssangyong Korando is heading for a facelift and we are starting to see uncamouflaged prototypes appear on Korean websites frequently. Regular Indian Autos Blog readers have already seen a couple of exterior and interior images.

Today, we are able to show you a new set of shots of the Korando facelift, courtesy of Korean auto enthusiast forum Bobaedream.

Ssangyong Korando facelift front bumper
The majestic Korando facelift receives daytime running lights and the new corporate logo.

You may have noticed that these Korandos appear to be parked in a shipping yard as there are hundreds of them, presumably awaiting dealer deliveries. This is a clear indication that Ssangyong could launch the updated Korando very soon. How about a global premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Ssangyong?

The refreshed Korando receives a new front fascia with integrated daytime running lights on the headlamps. The changes are not so pronounced at the rear which is limited to a tweak for the taillight.

Ssangyong Korando facelift interior
Interior of the Korando facelift is vastly upgraded with a touch screen infotainment system, reshaped aircon vents and new dials.

Inside, the updated Korando sports a new dashboard which houses a touchscreen display. The dials and the digital readout of the automatic climate control are brand new. Apart from these changes, the design of the aircon vents are different.

Under the hood, we expect Ssangyong to retain the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine which is available in two states of tune. The lower end model gets 149bhp while the top-end models get 175bhp. Transmission options extend to a 6-speed manual and automatic gearbox.

Ssangyong Korando facelift front
If the Korando takes the CKD route, it may cost as much as an XUV500 which makes it look grossly over-priced. If manufactured locally, it may overlap in pricing with the Scorpio. How can Mahindra work around these hurdles?

Would Mahindra consider launching the Korando in India, especially since the model has just been refreshed? We have been repeatedly told by Mahindra officials that they "continue to study the market" for the SUV. The high import tariff and the lack of a third row are deterrents, but there's nothing more that India loves than a well-proportioned SUV that's priced aggressively.

Ssangyong Korando Facelift Image Gallery

[Images from Bobaedream]

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