2011 Ssangyong Rexton II Review

overall rating
below average
Live Life Drive Rating
Price
RM169,829
Installment
RM1,620/mth

2011 Ssangyong Rexton II at a glance

Big and rugged, the 2011 Ssangyong Rexton II rides and handles in an old-fashioned, crude manner. But for those seeking an SUV with room for seven and plenty of equipments, the 2011 Ssangyong Rexton II fits the criteria nicely.

2011 Ssangyong Rexton II quick specs

Body Style SUV
Class Large Utility
Assembled -
Engine Range -
Fuel Options -
Seating Capacity 7

2011 Ssangyong Rexton II ratings (overall rating : 3/5.0)

Styling
Handling
Comfort
Quality + Reliability
Performance
Roominess
Running Costs
Value for Money
Equipment
Environment

Styling

The Rexton has been Ssangyong's most sober design by a distance. Adhering to some conventions in the design department is no bad thing considering how quirky the rest of Ssangyong's model range turned out. The 2011 Ssangyong Rexton looks imposing and rugged, just what buyers of such SUVs want. The front end could use some finer detailing though.

Handling

The 2011 Ssangyong Rexton handles unlike modern SUVs, but more similar to old-fashioned, cumbersome 4x4s of old. Poor grip levels, large amount of body lean, coupled with a steering that is completely devoid of feel, mean that the Ssangyong Rexton should be driven with care. The 2011 Ssangyong Rexton is much more comfortable off-road than on-road with its genuine off-roading ability.

Comfort

The soft suspension negotiates rough surfaces well, but the ride is too easily unsettled by bumps and undulations. Refinement is decent, with engine noise being a bigger problem than road or wind noise. Drivers enjoy a commanding view out, and get plenty of seating adjustments, although the steering column is only tilt-adjustable. Controls are easy to locate and simple to use.

Quality + Reliability

Ssangyong has spent substantial effort on the Rexton's cabin, apparent from the high build quality and the cabin design. Some materials such as the leather seats feel premium, but some dashboard textures feel relatively cheap. The underlying mechanicals, namely the Mercedes-Benz-sourced engine and gearbox, are proven and should remain reliable.

Performance

The 2011 Ssangyong Rexton's drivetrain consists of a 2.7-litre turbodiesel, with 163 bhp and 340 Nm, mated to a five-speed automatic. The on-road performance is anaemic as the turbodiesel struggles to haul the 2011 Ssangyong Rexton's heft along, and because plenty of revs are needed for any real progression, the resulting harsh engine note disrupts the refinement. The five-speed automatic shifts smoothly throughout, at least.

Roominess

The 2011 Ssangyong Rexton can carry seven in good comfort. The first and second rows provide ample room, while the third row provides less generous though adequate room. The boot space is limited with all seats in use, but both rear rows can split/fold to create a large, albeit not very wide, loading area.

Running Costs

Fuel economy of 11.1 km/litre is not great in the absolute sense, but is decent given the 2011 Ssangyong Rexton's size and weight. Servicing and repair costs should be reasonable. Depreciation is higher than most rivals' however, as the Ssangyong brand is relatively new and unestablished in Malaysia, although the Rexton's excellent equipment count should help somewhat in supporting the resale prices.

Value for Money

For an attractive price, you get the 2011 Ssangyong Rexton, a big, rugged SUV that handles better off-road than on-road. The cabin is overall quite good in quality, and of course there is room for seven. The equipment count is excellent too. The unsettled ride, anaemic engine performance and high running costs are downsides to take note of, however.

Equipment

This is where the 2011 Ssangyong Rexton stands out by providing an excellent equipment count. Standard equipment includes leather seats, fully automatic climate control and rear air conditioning, remote keyless entry, electric folding exterior mirrors, electric sunroof, roof rails, 8-way electric driver's seat with memory settings, steering wheel audio controls, 16” alloy wheels, front fog lamps, and parking sensors. Safety equipments include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and dual front airbags with seatbelt pre-tensioners.

Environment

The 2011 Ssangyong Rexton is no different from other big, heavy SUVs, gulping down plenty of fuel and emitting lots of carbon dioxide—11.1 km/litre of fuel consumption and 242 grams/km of carbon dioxide emissions to be exact. But being able to carry seven (meaning less pollution per person) and being locally assembled mean the 2011 Ssangyong Rexton pollutes less compared to premium five-seater SUVs imported from overseas.

Live Life Drive Verdict

Rugged styling
Room for seven
Excellent equipment count
Inept handling
Unsettled ride
Anaemic engine performance

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