Ssangyong plans to launch its all-new stylish compact SUV, the Korando C in the 4th Quarter this year and believes that it will spark a sales renaissance for the Korean marque.

The Korando C is based on an all-new monocoque platform, the first Ssangyong SUV model to use a monocoque design.

It will also feature new diesel engine technology, a stylish new compact SUV look and a spacious and luxurious European inspired interior.

Ssangyong believes the Korando C will be the driving force behind the company's revival and is set to become Ssangyong's highest volume model in both the Korean domestic market as well as international export markets.

According to Ssangyong Motors Australia General Manager, Mr Jeff Barber, the new Korando C is strategically important as Ssangyong charts its future direction as a specialist SUV and environmentally aware automaker.

"Korando C is a great looking compact SUV that will win plenty of hearts while satisfying the demand for fuel efficient and clean diesel power," said Mr Barber.

"Korando C will prove to be the turning point for Ssangyong and will deliver mass appeal to the marque with a package that is competitive in the rapidly expanding compact SUV market," he said.

"Korando C is a smart, contemporary design that will hold its own against any compact SUV on the market today," he added.

Moving to a monocoque design has allowed Ssangyong engineers to increase the structural integrity of the Korando C for improved crash safety and reduced NVH levels, making it amongst the best in the SUV category.

It will be powered by a state of the art, environmentally friendly two-litre common rail turbo diesel engine that can meet Euro V emission standards.

While Korando C is a compact SUV, it is has been designed with a roomy interior offering abundant space and comfort not only for everyday use but also for a range of leisure activities.

Korando C uses the new eXDi200 two-litre German designed diesel engine with an electronically controlled two-stage turbocharger, high-efficiency exhaust gas recycling (EGR) intercooler and optimal air-intake system to reduce emissions and increase engine efficiency.

The new engine delivers 30 percent more power and 50 percent more torque than the current Ssangyong two litre turbo diesel producing around 130kW of power and 450Nm of torque.

It employs Delphi's third-generation, high pressure common rail fuel injection system while the new two-stage turbocharger delivers maximum efficiency at both low and high speeds and will help the engine to meet the yet to be mandated EURO V emission standards.

This new power plant will be used in other Ssangyong products and is earmarked for the face lifted Actyon Sports Ute in 2011.

Ssangyong engineers have dramatically improved engine NVH by employing a one-piece plastic cylinder head cover along with a mass balance shaft and simplified camshaft drive chain system.

Ssangyong is working on both a hybrid and a pure electric version of the Korando C and showed examples of both technologies on its stand at the recent Pusan International Motor Show in Korea.

It is currently conducting advanced R&D activities to develop the Korando C based EV in line with global trends for 'low carbon, green growth' and to demonstrate Ssangyong's commitment to low emission vehicle technology.

The Pure EV Korando C shown at Pusan utilises a 100kW electric motor and a 30kWh, 300V high-voltage lithium-polymer battery giving it the capability of travelling up to 180km at a speed of 150km/h.

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