SsangYong: new importer, lower prices

The inroads made by Korean car-maker SsangYong into the European market in recent years haven’t quite been on par with those of fellow Korean outfits Hyundai and Kia. Let’s face it, they haven’t even been on the same Golf course.However, that may be all about to change. The UK import and distribution business for SsangYong has just been bought by Koelliker UK, and as part of the brand’s relaunch, SsangYong is dropping its UK prices – and by no small margin.At the foot of its range, the Kyron (its Freelander-sized 4x4) is becoming no less than £3000 cheaper. At £14,995 for the cheapest, front-wheel drive model, it’s more affordable than a Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage – little more even than a Tata Safari.Its next model up, the Rexton 4x4, gets a £2600 price chop. You can now get one for just £19,995 – and it’s a 2.7-litre, Discovery-sized offering, don’t forget.The firm’s Rodius MPV doesn’t get any cheaper, at £14,995 for the basic model. Unfortunate, that. But not as unfortunate as the way it looks.