What's the news?

SsangYong has fitted a new engine to its Rodius MPV, creating the most fuel efficient version of the model to date. The 2.0-litre diesel unit was introduced to the SsangYong range with the new Korando Sports pick-up a few months ago.

Exterior

While SsangYong has refreshed the engine bay, it has yet to give the Rodius the facelift it so desperately needs. The company has also avoided adding any visual tweaks to highlight the installation of the new engine. Aside from the mild mid-life update the car received in 2007 the looks of the Rodius have remained pretty much unchanged since it was launched in 2004.

Interior

Neither has the inside changed much; there is still a massive 875 litres of boot space with all seven seats in use and 2,271 litres with the rear row of seats removed. Equipment levels aren't too shabby either: base-level 'S' models get automatic climate control, front and rear electric windows, Bluetooth and a Kenwood stereo as standard. Upgrades add things like rear privacy glass and heated front leather seats.

Mechanicals

The newly launched Euro 5 compliant 2.0-litre e-XDi diesel engine now sits under the bonnet of the Rodius. It develops 153hp and 360Nm of torque whilst returning 38.7mpg on the combined cycle - no mean feat considering the size of the vehicle it's powering. We expect that this latter figure is achieved by coupling the engine to SsangYong's standard six-speed gearbox; and that specifying the automatic gearbox, upgrading to the top-spec four wheel drive EX model, or utilising the Rodius' 2,000kg towing capability may reduce it somewhat.

Anything else?

One of the Rodius' strengths has always been value for money, and this remains the case. Prices for the new model start at £15,995; and every example comes with SsangYong's five-year unlimited mileage warranty. The new model is on sale now.

James Giddings - 10 Jan 2013