SsangYong unveils 2012 Korando with new diesel engine and lower emissions
The 2012 SsangYong Korando brings a new 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine and updates to its petrol unit, focusing on improved efficiency and emissions for the European market.
SsangYong has unveiled the 2012 Korando, bringing a range of updates as the South Korean automaker seeks to strengthen its position in the competitive European compact SUV market. The reveal follows the limited edition Korando launched in the United Kingdom earlier in the year, and now attention turns to the wider European release scheduled for summer 2012. The 2012 model introduces a new entry-level 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine and lower emissions across the range, reflecting the brand's response to evolving emissions regulations and consumer demand for more efficient vehicles.
2012 SsangYong Korando: Updated Features and Engine Options
New 2.0-litre Turbo Diesel Engine
A key highlight of the 2012 Korando is the addition of a new 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine, designed to improve both running costs and environmental impact. This engine produces 147 horsepower, offering a balance of performance and efficiency that is increasingly important in the compact SUV segment. In front-wheel drive configuration, the diesel engine emits 147g/km of CO2, while the all-wheel drive version records 157g/km. These figures are competitive for the class and help position the Korando as an appealing option for buyers focused on emissions-based taxation and lower running costs, particularly in markets where such factors influence vehicle choice.
The introduction of this engine reflects SsangYong's strategy to compete with rivals such as the Dacia Duster and Suzuki Jimny, both of which have also introduced new or updated engine options to address stricter emissions standards and shifting market expectations. The Korando’s emissions figures are aimed at buyers who prioritise efficiency without sacrificing practicality or performance.
Updated Petrol Engine and Emissions Improvements
Alongside the diesel, SsangYong has updated the 2.0-litre petrol engine for the 2012 Korando. In manual front-wheel drive specification, this engine now emits 175g/km of CO2, while the all-wheel drive manual version emits 192g/km. These improvements help the Korando align more closely with European emissions standards. Although full technical specifications for the updated petrol engine have not yet been disclosed, the focus on reducing emissions is clear.
Lower emissions are increasingly important in the compact SUV segment, where buyers are often influenced by annual road tax rates and fuel economy. The changes to both the diesel and petrol engines indicate that SsangYong is aiming to make the Korando more attractive to cost-conscious consumers, as well as those who are environmentally aware.
Market Position and Upcoming Details
The 2012 Korando sits within the compact SUV class, a segment that has seen considerable growth in recent years. Models like the Dacia Duster and Suzuki Jimny have set benchmarks for affordability and practicality, and SsangYong’s latest updates are intended to ensure the Korando remains competitive. The earlier launch of a limited edition Korando in the UK signalled SsangYong’s intent to raise its profile in Europe, and the full reveal of the 2012 model builds on this momentum.
At present, SsangYong has not released complete details regarding performance figures, available trim levels, or pricing for the 2012 Korando. These will be announced closer to the model’s European launch in the summer of 2012. The emphasis so far has been on the introduction of the new diesel engine and the reduction of emissions across the range, both of which are likely to be key selling points in a market where environmental regulations continue to tighten.
Summary of Key Changes for 2012
- New 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine: 147hp, 147g/km CO2 (FWD), 157g/km CO2 (AWD)
- Updated 2.0-litre petrol engine: 175g/km CO2 (FWD manual), 192g/km CO2 (AWD manual)
- Emissions improvements across the range to target European tax bands
- Limited edition previously launched in the UK
- Further details on trims, pricing, and performance to be released before summer 2012
Looking Ahead
The 2012 SsangYong Korando’s reveal marks a step forward for the brand as it seeks to expand its presence in Europe. The focus on emissions and efficiency is in line with broader industry trends and consumer expectations. As full details on trim levels, pricing, and performance emerge closer to launch, the Korando will be better positioned to compete with established rivals in the compact SUV market. Buyers interested in affordable, efficient SUVs will likely watch for these updates as the summer launch approaches.
