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
3.8/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.5
Comfort & Interior
4
Running Costs
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 large SUV that combines rugged capability with seven seat practicality? The SsangYong Rexton W offers exactly that blend of functionality and value that many families need. This substantial SUV sits in the large family SUV segment, where it competes with rivals like the Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail. The Rexton W stands out with its generous interior space, genuine off road ability, and surprisingly affordable pricing compared to more mainstream alternatives. Built with a focus on durability and practicality, this Korean SUV delivers impressive towing capacity and excellent equipment levels as standard. Whether you need a vehicle for family adventures or require serious towing capability, the Rexton W provides a compelling alternative to the usual German and Japanese options. Its combination of space, capability, and value makes it particularly appealing for buyers who prioritise substance over badge prestige.
What's the SsangYong Rexton W Like to Drive?
The SsangYong Rexton W focuses on torque and capability rather than outright speed. The 2.7-litre diesel engine produces around 165 horsepower and impressive low-end torque, making it feel strong when pulling away from traffic lights or climbing hills. It’s not designed for spirited driving, but it has more than adequate power for motorway cruising and everyday family duties. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and suits the relaxed character perfectly.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.7L 5-cylinder Diesel
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Power Output
165 bhp
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0-60 mph
12.5 seconds
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MPG Combined
28-32 mpg
- Boot Space
- 820 litres (5 seats)
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the SsangYong Rexton W: Comfort & Features
Step inside and the Rexton W immediately impresses with its spacious, practical cabin. The dashboard layout is straightforward and functional, with clearly marked controls that are easy to use while driving. Materials are hard-wearing rather than luxurious, but everything feels well-built and designed to last. The seats are supportive and comfortable, with plenty of adjustment to help you find the ideal driving position.
The SsangYong Rexton W is a no-nonsense family SUV prioritizing practicality and ruggedness over sportiness. Its 2.7-litre diesel delivers strong low-end torque, making hill climbs and towing effortless, though it lacks refinement for spirited drives. The cabin is impressively spacious and well-appointed, offering comfort and versatility for seven passengers. While running costs feel steep, its off-road capability and value-for-money approach make it a compelling choice for those needing a capable, family-friendly large SUV.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a SsangYong Rexton W?
As a large SUV, the Rexton W comes with typically higher running costs, but they’re reasonable considering the size and capability. The diesel engine returns around 28-32 MPG in real-world driving, which is acceptable for such a substantial vehicle. Insurance costs are moderate for the class, helped by the strong safety credentials and lower theft risk compared to premium brands.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
Is the SsangYong Rexton W Practical for Everyday Use?
The Rexton W is genuinely impressive when it comes to practical family use. The 820-litre boot with five seats in use is massive, easily accommodating holiday luggage or the weekly shop for a large family. Even with all seven seats in place, there’s still useful luggage space remaining. The rear seats fold completely flat, creating a huge cargo area for larger items like furniture or sports equipment.
Bought our Rexton W three years ago and it’s been brilliant for our large family. The seven seats are all properly usable and the boot space is enormous. It’s not the most glamorous car but it does everything we need reliably and comfortably.
The SsangYong Rexton W stands out in the competitive large SUV market by offering exceptional space and capability at an attractive price point. It combines robust engineering, genuine seven-seat practicality, and impressive cargo capacity in a package that costs significantly less than premium alternatives. While it may not offer the refinement or badge prestige of German rivals, it excels in the areas that matter most to families.