SsangYong Rexton (03 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 04 January 2010
SsangYong may not be a familiar name, but it's growing in reputation for building robust yet good value for money vehicles. The Rexton is its most popular model - a large 4x4 that is available with seven seats and a strong diesel engine but costs around the same as smaller offroaders such as the Nissan X-Trail. It's an impressive machine off road and can tackle tough terrain, but unfortunately this comes at the expense of on road handling. It's cumbersome, heavy and feels dated. The drab and old-fashioned cabin do it few favours either, but as a workhorse-type vehicle, the Rexton can make an affordable choice. It was facelifted in 2006 and changes to the suspension improved the handling considerably.
2.5 out of 5

Safety

The Rexton hasn't been crash tested by Euro NCAP. Twin airbags are standard along with seatbelt pre-tensioners and traction control. Side airbags are available as an option with leather seats. A Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser and remote central locking are fitted as standard.

NCAP Test

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3 out of 5

Reliability

SsangYong has a reputation for mechanical durability and the Rexton uses a gearbox borrowed from Mercedes-Benz. However, electrical problems have been reported in the past.

Car check problem points

Body

Damage from off-road use.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.