Ssangyong Rexton pricing and specifications : New diesel engine, fresh styling for flagship seven-seat SUV

Ssangyong’s flagship seven-seat SUV line-up now features just one variant, the Rexton SX, from $39,990 driveaway, replacing the previous three-tier range that was priced from $36,990-$47,990 driveaway.

The facelifted Ssangyong Rexton - which was unveiled more than two years ago at the 2012 Busan motor show - trades its predecessor’s 2.7-litre five-cylinder turbo diesel engine for a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel unit. Power falls 6kW to 115kW (at 4000rpm), though torque rises 20Nm to 360Nm and is now produced across a broad 1500-2800rpm band (it previously peaked at 2400rpm).

The smaller engine makes the Rexton almost 15 per cent more fuel efficient, with combined cycle fuel consumption down to 7.8L/100km. A five-speed automatic transmission built using Mercedes-Benz technology sends drive to all four wheels.

The Rexton’s revised exterior features sharper and more modern styling, sporting more angular headlights, a broad trapezoidal grille and slim air intakes, while the rear gains LED tail-lights and a reshaped bumper. The cabin benefits from an overhauled centre console with new audio system and air vents, as well as new trim materials.

Standard features of the updated Ssangyong Rexton include 16-inch alloy wheels, fog-lights, front and rear parking sensors, roof rails, side steps, cruise control, steering wheel gearshift buttons, eight-way electric driver’s seat with memory settings, climate control with third-row vents, leather upholstery, and a six-speaker stereo with USB and AUX ports and Bluetooth phone connectivity with audio streaming.

It comes standard with electronic stability control, but features only front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, leaving passengers in the second and third rows unprotected.

As with all Ssangyongs sold in Australia, the Rexton is protected by a three-year/100,000km warranty and three years of roadside assistance.