Catalog / Ssangyong
SsangYong Motor Company, a name that resonates with rugged reliability in the automotive world, has a rich history dating back to 1954. Originally established as Ha Dong-hwan Motor Workshop, the company underwent several transformations before emerging as SsangYong in 1988. The name 'SsangYong,' meaning 'double dragons' in Korean, symbolizes the company's aspiration for power and prosperity.
In its early years, SsangYong specialized in producing jeeps for the U.S. Army and trucks for commercial use. This expertise in robust vehicles would later become a hallmark of the brand. A significant milestone came in 1991 when SsangYong entered into a technology partnership with Mercedes-Benz, elevating its engineering capabilities and product quality.
The 1990s saw SsangYong expanding its product line with models that would become iconic for the brand. The Musso, launched in 1993, was a luxury SUV that showcased SsangYong's ability to combine ruggedness with comfort. This was followed by the Korando in 1996, which holds the distinction of being Korea's longest-running SUV model name.
SsangYong faced challenges in the early 2000s, including a period of ownership by SAIC Motor of China from 2004 to 2009. However, the company demonstrated resilience, bouncing back with innovative designs and improved technology. In 2011, Indian conglomerate Mahindra & Mahindra acquired a majority stake in SsangYong, injecting new life into the brand.
One of SsangYong's most notable achievements is its commitment to diesel engine technology. The company has been at the forefront of developing advanced diesel engines, including the XDi series, which has won acclaim for its efficiency and performance.
In recent years, SsangYong has been focusing on expanding its SUV and crossover lineup to meet global demand. Models like the Tivoli, launched in 2015, have been instrumental in introducing the brand to a younger demographic and new markets. The company has also been investing in electric vehicle technology, with plans to launch several electric models in the coming years.
Despite facing financial difficulties in 2020, which led to filing for bankruptcy protection, SsangYong has shown remarkable tenacity. In 2022, a consortium led by KG Group acquired SsangYong, opening a new chapter in the company's history.
Today, SsangYong continues to be known for its robust SUVs and pickup trucks, blending Korean engineering with a focus on practicality and value. As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, SsangYong is poised to adapt, leveraging its heritage of building durable vehicles to create sustainable mobility solutions for the future.
The cost of SsangYong vehicles varies widely depending on the model, specifications, and the European country where it's sold. Generally, SsangYong positions itself as a value-for-money brand, offering robust vehicles at competitive prices.
On average, new SsangYong cars in Europe start from around €20,000 for compact models and can go up to €40,000 for top-of-the-line SUVs and pickup trucks. For instance, the popular Tivoli compact SUV typically starts at about €22,000 in its base configuration, while the larger Korando might begin at around €26,000.
The flagship Rexton SUV, which competes with more premium brands, usually starts at approximately €35,000 and can reach up to €45,000 for fully-loaded versions. The Musso pickup truck, known for its versatility, generally falls in the €30,000 to €40,000 range depending on cab configuration and equipment level.
It's important to note that prices can fluctuate based on local taxes, import duties, and market-specific features. Additionally, SsangYong often offers special editions and promotional pricing, which can provide even better value for consumers.
The most affordable model in SsangYong's European lineup is typically the Tivoli, a compact SUV. In its base configuration, the Tivoli usually starts at around €20,000 to €22,000, depending on the specific European market.
The price of the base Tivoli can vary based on several factors:
It's worth noting that even the base model Tivoli often comes well-equipped with features like air conditioning, electric windows, and basic safety systems, reflecting SsangYong's focus on value for money.
The most expensive model in SsangYong's lineup is typically the top-spec version of the Rexton, their large SUV. In its highest trim level with all available options, the Rexton can reach prices of around €50,000 to €55,000 in European markets.
The price of the top-tier Rexton can be influenced by several factors:
It's important to note that even at its highest price point, the Rexton often remains competitively priced compared to similarly sized SUVs from more premium European or Japanese brands, reflecting SsangYong's value proposition in the luxury SUV segment.
