SsangYong Rexton
Suzanne Keane checks out the latest commerical offering from SsangYong, the Rexton Business Edition
What is it? This is the 3rd generation of the SsangYong Rexton and in Business Edition spec it comes with room for 5 while qualifying for commercial road tax (subject to eligibility).
Who is it aimed at? The Rexton offers seating room for 5 adults while leaving plenty of space in the boot for tools – ideal for anyone who needs to move people as well as goods.
Styling? On first impressions the Rexton is big and chunky and looks have been improved with new bumpers (front and rear) along with a new grille, headlamps and fog lights.
Under the Bonnet? Our test car was powered by a 2.0L turbo diesel engine with 155PS.
What about inside? The cabin is finished quite well although some of the materials do seem a little flimsy and may not stand the test of time. Impressively there are heated seats in both the front and rear and perforated leather on the armrest is a nice touch. The audio system is quite dated and there is no touchscreen although the cruise control is the easiest I’ve come across to use – one click to turn on – and there are plenty of 12v power sockets. Overall the Rexton isn’t a bad place to be (once you climb in) but the road noise is quite intruding.
On the Road? Engine noise is a big issue in the Rexton – although it does add to the rugged & industrial feel of this workhorse. One tap of the cruise control stalk and motorway driving is effortless and the 2.0L engine has plenty of poke but it does feel awkward on narrower roads and in town.
And Safety? The Rexton hasn’t been Euro NCAP tested but on paper it offers ESP, ABS and side airbags.
Options? Our test car was a Business Edition Rexton with a Leather steering wheel, body coloured bumpers, roof rails, privacy glass, LED daytime running lights, heated seats in front and rear, 18” alloys, leatherette seats and rear parking sensors.
Will it break the bank? The 5 seater Business Edition cost €32,500 (ex VAT) and consumes 7.4l/100km.
Verdict? The Rexton has plenty of space and comfort for 5 but does seem a bit too industrial for use as anything other than a workhorse.
Why you’ll buy one? Plenty of space and towing capacity.
Why you won’t? Road Noise
SsangYong Rexton 5 seater Business Edition
Engine: D20DTR 1998cc Turbo Intercooled Diesel
Max speed: 174kmph
0-100 kph: 12.4 seconds
Emissions: 206g/km
Model price range: €32,500 ex VAT
Load Capacity: 2.2m3
Payload: 740kg
Towing Weight (Braked): 750kg (2600kg)
No of Doors: 5 doors
Euro NCAP : N/A
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 7.4 litres per 100km
Length: 4755mm
Width: 1900mm
Height: 1840mm
Wheelbase: 2835mm
For more information visit SsangYong.ie or the SsangYong Ireland Facebook page
Suzanne Keane
15th October, 2015
