What's the news?

A host of extra goodies and refinement tweaks have been made to the 2014 SsangYong Korando Sports that goes on sale for £17,995. The upgrades have been designed to enhance the pick-up's role as both a workhorse and a family car without one compromising the other.

Exterior

The basic styling remains identical to that of the existing model, which is no bad thing as the Sports certainly isn't bad to look at. New to the model are three hard tops that can be specified to cover the rear load bay. The 'Top-Up cover' is a hinged glass-fibre cover; the 'Classic' is a full hard-top featuring a hatch-opening, interior light and sliding rear glass; and the top-spec 'Elegance' comes with a heated rear window, sliding front glass, central locking, hinged rear windows and roof bars. Two trim levels are available, SX and EX, with 16- and 18-inch alloy wheels fitted respectively.

Interior

As is expected with SsangYong, the layout of the dash is more functional than beautiful; however every version does come with air conditioning, a Kenwood stereo with USB, aux-in and Bluetooth connectivity, speed-sensitive power steering and leather-trimmed controls. Upgrade to EX spec and SsangYong adds leather upholstery, heated seats, electric folding mirrors and rear parking sensors. Cruise control can also be had but only as an optional extra.

Mechanicals

Under the bonnet is SsangYong's latest 2.0-litre e-XDi diesel engine developing 155hp and 360Nm of torque. Power is sent primarily to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox; however, a toggle switch on the dashboard will send the power to all four wheels if necessary. An automatic gearbox can also be specified. Unlike many pick-ups that make do with a leaf spring rear suspension set up, SsangYong has fitted a multi-link design with coil springs in order to improve ride comfort. Standard safety equipment includes an ESP stability control system, Active Roll-over Protection and Hill Start Assist.

Anything else?

While entry-level versions come to market for less than £18,000, the top-spec versions carry a £2,500 premium at £20,495; and those wanting an automatic gearbox will have to shell out an additional £1,500. Order books are open now, and every Korando Sports model is sold with SsangYong's five-year, limitless mileage warranty.

James Giddings - 24 Jan 2014