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
4.1
Practicality
4.6
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 large SUV that offers genuine value for money? The SsangYong Rexton delivers impressive space and capability without the premium price tag of German rivals. This Korean built seven seater combines robust build quality with generous equipment levels and a practical approach to family transport. The Rexton stands out in the competitive large SUV market by offering more space and features than you’d expect for the price. While alternatives like the Land Rover Discovery or BMW X5 command higher prices, the Rexton focuses on delivering maximum practicality and comfort for busy families. The spacious interior easily accommodates seven adults, while the large boot provides excellent cargo capacity even with all seats in use. Standard equipment levels are generous across the range, including safety features that many competitors charge extra for. The diesel engine provides strong pulling power and reasonable economy for such a large vehicle. Whether you need a capable tow car, a family workhorse, or simply want maximum space without paying premium prices, the Rexton offers compelling value. It may not have the badge appeal of luxury rivals, but it delivers where it matters most for real world family use.
What's the SsangYong Rexton Like to Drive?
The SsangYong Rexton is powered by a 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine producing 181 horsepower, paired exclusively with a seven-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers adequate rather than exciting performance, with 0-60 mph taking around 10.5 seconds. The engine feels well-suited to the Rexton’s character, providing strong low-end torque that’s perfect for towing or tackling steep inclines. It’s refined enough for motorway cruising, though you’ll notice some diesel rumble under acceleration.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.2L 4-cylinder diesel
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Power Output
181 bhp
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0-60 mph
10.5 seconds
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MPG Combined
32-35 mpg
- Boot Space
- 820 litres (5 seats)
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the SsangYong Rexton: Comfort & Features
Step inside the Rexton and you’ll find a spacious, well-appointed cabin that punches above its price point. The dashboard layout is intuitive and user-friendly, dominated by a large touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Materials feel solid rather than luxurious, with plenty of soft-touch surfaces and decent fit and finish throughout. The driving position is excellent, offering great visibility in all directions thanks to the SUV’s upright stance and large windows.
The SsangYong Rexton offers exceptional value in the large SUV segment, combining robust build quality with generous space and practicality. While its 2.2-litre diesel engine delivers adequate low-end torque for towing and hills, it lacks excitement, with 0-60 taking 10.5 seconds. Comfortable and refined for long journeys, the Rexton excels in family transport, though diesel rumble and modest performance will appeal more to utility-focused drivers than performance enthusiasts.
Is the SsangYong Rexton Expensive to Run?
The Rexton’s running costs are surprisingly reasonable for such a large SUV. Real-world fuel economy typically returns between 30-35 mpg, which is competitive given the vehicle’s size and permanent four-wheel drive system. The diesel engine’s efficiency helps keep fuel bills manageable, even with regular family duties or occasional towing. Insurance groups are moderate, typically falling into groups 25-30, reflecting the SUV’s good safety credentials and relatively modest performance.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
SsangYong Rexton Practicality & Boot Space
The Rexton excels in practicality, offering genuine seven-seat capability that many rivals can’t match. The 820-litre boot with five seats in use is cavernous, easily accommodating family holidays, sports equipment, or DIY supplies. Even with all seven seats occupied, there’s still reasonable luggage space for overnight bags. The split-folding rear seats create a completely flat load floor, transforming the Rexton into a van-like cargo hauler when needed.
Bought our Rexton two years ago and it’s been fantastic for our family of six. Loads of space, reliable, and the warranty gives real peace of mind. Not the flashiest SUV but definitely the most practical.
The SsangYong Rexton stands out in the seven-seat SUV market by offering exceptional space, capability, and value. It combines genuine off-road ability with impressive on-road refinement, all wrapped up in a package that costs thousands less than German or Japanese rivals. The generous warranty and competitive running costs make it an appealing proposition for cost-conscious families.