Currently reading: 2021 Ssangyong Rexton updated and gains more power

Rugged seven-seater given makeover, more powerful engine and new eight-speed gearbox in mid-life facelift

The power output of the Ssangyong Rexton has been upgraded as part of an update that also included a number of styling changes and the introduction of a new eight-speed gearbox.

The Korean firm’s rugged seven-seat SUV retains a 2.2-litre diesel engine, but its maximum output has been raised from 178bhp to 199bhp and its torque increased from 310lb ft to 324lb ft.

Ssangyong says the system is tuned to deliver strong low-end torque, resulting in a 0-62mph time of 11.9sec.

The revised engine is twinned with a new eight-speed automatic gearbox, produced by Hyundai Transys, which Ssangyong claims reduces weight and vibrations while improving efficiency.

The Rexton retains a selectable four-wheel drive system that includes high and low-ratio modes and off-road settings.

The car can achieve 32.2mpg on the WLTP combined cycle, with official CO2 emissions of 225g/km. It also has a towing capacity of 3500kg and has gained a new Trailer Sway Control feature to improve towing stability.

In addition to the new powertrain, the Rexton has been given a makeover, with a revised front end featuring a new grille and LED headlights. The rear end has also been revised.

The Rexton will continue to be offered in two trim levels. Ventura replaces ELX, while the top-sped Ultimate adds 18in alloy wheels, a 9.0in infotainment touchscreen, heated seats and other upgrades.

The Ventura starts from £37,995 and the Ultimate from £40,665.

READ MORE

Autocar's Ssangyong Rexton review

Long-term test: life with a Ssangyong Rexton

Mahindra seeks new owner for struggling Ssangyong

Advertisement

Read our review

Car review

The Ssangyong Rexton gets a refreshed look and far more luxury to go alongside its durability and cheap pricepoint, but overall it remains a determinedly old-fashioned SUV

James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Acting magazine editor

James is Autocar's acting magazine editor. Having served in that role since June 2023, he is in charge of the day-to-day running of the world's oldest car magazine, and regularly interviews some of the biggest names in the industry to secure news and features, such as his world exclusive look into production of Volkswagen currywurst. Really.

Before first joining Autocar in 2017, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalist, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, covering everything from club rallying to top-level international events. He also spent 18 months running Move Electric, Haymarket's e-mobility title, where he developed knowledge of the e-bike and e-scooter markets. 

Join the debate

Comments
1
Add a comment…
ianp55 9 March 2021

The new grille is much larger than before,but so many other SUV's are doing the same it's not to my taste but it doesn't detract from the Rexton's core strengths, it's good to see a proper 4x4 witha separate chassis with enough power to tow a burger bar or a horse box on to a muddy field. The price is slowly drifting upwards but it's got great built quality and the slightly "vintage" interior of the car is very comfortable,only the Rexton and the Landcruiser offer proper 4x4 capability at a sensible price,long may they continue