A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4.2
Running Costs
4.3
Practicality
4.5
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a practical family SUV that won’t break the bank? The SsangYong Korando delivers exceptional value in the competitive crossover market. This Korean built SUV combines generous interior space, solid build quality, and an impressive seven year warranty that puts many premium rivals to shame. The Korando stands out with its spacious cabin, substantial boot capacity, and surprisingly refined on road manners. While it may lack the badge appeal of rivals like the Nissan Qashqai or Kia Sportage, the Korando offers genuine family practicality at an attractive price point. The latest generation brings modern styling, improved interior materials, and efficient engine options that make running costs manageable. Whether you’re looking for a reliable family workhorse or simply want maximum space for your money, the Korando represents smart buying in an increasingly expensive SUV segment. With excellent dealer support and that market leading warranty coverage, it’s a compelling choice for budget conscious buyers who refuse to compromise on practicality and peace of mind.
What's the SsangYong Korando Like to Drive?
The SsangYong Korando focuses on delivering smooth, efficient performance rather than sporty thrills. The petrol engine lineup includes a 1.5-litre turbocharged unit producing around 163 horsepower, which provides adequate performance for family duties. There’s also a diesel option that’s particularly appealing for high-mileage drivers. The engines are refined and offer decent pulling power, making overtaking and motorway cruising comfortable experiences.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.5L Turbo Petrol / 1.6L Diesel
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Power Output
163 - 136 bhp
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0-60 mph
10.2 - 11.5 seconds
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MPG Combined
40 - 50 mpg
- Boot Space
- 551 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the SsangYong Korando: Comfort & Features
Step inside the Korando and you’ll be impressed by the space and comfort on offer. The cabin feels airy and spacious, with generous headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard design is modern and functional, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. Materials quality is good for the price point, with soft-touch surfaces where they matter most.
The SsangYong Korando offers exceptional value for a practical, family-focused SUV. Its spacious cabin and generous boot capacity make it ideal for everyday use, while refined road manners and solid build quality elevate its appeal. The diesel engine excels for long-distance driving, and petrol options provide adequate performance. Though not a sporty contender, its reliability, warranty, and cost-efficiency make it a compelling alternative to premium rivals.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a SsangYong Korando?
The Korando’s biggest strength lies in its excellent value proposition and low running costs. Fuel economy is competitive across the range, with the diesel engine delivering up to 50 mpg in real world driving conditions. The petrol engine achieves around 40 mpg, which is respectable for an SUV of this size. Insurance groups are reasonable, typically falling into moderate categories that won’t break the bank.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
SsangYong Korando Practicality & Boot Space
The Korando shines when it comes to practical family use. The 551-litre boot is genuinely spacious, easily accommodating the weekly shop, holiday luggage, or sports equipment. The rear seats fold down to create an impressive load area for larger items. Inside the cabin, storage solutions are plentiful, with good-sized door pockets, cup holders, and a useful centre console for everyday items.
We bought our Korando two years ago and it’s been brilliant. The space inside is amazing and it’s so comfortable on long trips. The kids love the rear seat space and the boot swallows everything we throw at it. Best value family car we’ve ever owned.
The SsangYong Korando stands out in the competitive family SUV market by offering exceptional value and genuine practicality. It combines spacious accommodation, generous equipment levels, and efficient running costs into an attractive package that’s hard to beat at this price point. While it may lack the brand cachet of premium alternatives, it more than compensates with substance and value.