SsangYong Rexton 2017: Premium SUV Performance Review

The second generation of SsangYong’s flagship large SUV represents a remarkable transformation in the Korean manufacturer’s approach to premium vehicle design and construction. When this model arrived in the UK market during autumn 2017, it signaled a decisive shift away from the budget-focused positioning that had characterized earlier iterations. This comprehensive assessment examines how the new Rexton addresses the demands of modern SUV buyers seeking capability without excessive expenditure.

Evolution in Design Philosophy and Aesthetic Appeal

The visual transformation between generations cannot be overstated. Previous Rexton models carried styling cues that harked back to earlier automotive design eras, presenting a somewhat dated appearance that failed to resonate with contemporary buyers. The new iteration discards this approach entirely, adopting a contemporary design language that emphasizes clean lines, sculpted surfaces, and purposeful proportions.

While not universally acclaimed as the most attractive offering in its class, the Rexton now ranks among SsangYong’s more visually compelling products. The design philosophy balances functional form with aesthetic sophistication, creating an SUV that appears capable without appearing utilitarian. This represents a crucial psychological shift for potential buyers who desire a vehicle that performs demanding tasks while maintaining visual appeal in suburban and urban environments.

Interior Transformation and Material Quality

Perhaps the most significant advancement manifests in the cabin environment. SsangYong’s engineering team fundamentally reconsidered interior specifications, moving beyond the cost-cutting measures that plagued predecessor models. The current generation features genuine quilted leather upholstery on mid-range and upper-specification variants, complemented by authentic wood-grain trim across the dashboard fascia.

The tactile experience throughout the cabin demonstrates comparable quality to established competitors in the segment. Soft-touch materials, refined switchgear, and thoughtfully integrated controls create an atmosphere of sophistication. The instrument cluster combines traditional analog gauges with a modern digital display segment, presenting information in an intuitive format. This integration of classical and contemporary instrumentation represents a conscious design decision rather than aesthetic confusion.

Standard equipment across the lineup includes climate control functionality, automatic light and wiper adjustment, electric window regulators, and comprehensive parking sensor systems. Higher-specification models gain access to an eight-inch or nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system, representing the manufacturer’s own engineering rather than relying on third-party installations that frequently appear disconnected from the broader vehicle design.

Spatial Configuration and Cargo Versatility

Buyers require flexibility in seating arrangements for contemporary family transportation needs. The Rexton addresses this requirement through both five-seat and seven-seat configurations, allowing purchasers to prioritize either cargo capacity or passenger accommodation according to their specific circumstances.

The five-seat variant provides exceptional cargo flexibility. With all passenger seats occupied, the available load space reaches 820 litres, substantially exceeding typical competitor offerings. When rear seats are completely folded away, the volume expands to 1,977 litres, accommodating larger items such as building materials, recreational equipment, or furniture. This spatial generosity makes the five-seat model particularly attractive to rural residents and outdoor enthusiasts.

The seven-seat configuration sacrifices some cargo space to provide genuine accommodation for additional passengers. With all seats deployed, the rear boot area provides 649 litres of storage capacity. This configuration reduces further when the rearmost row is occupied, reflecting the spatial trade-offs inherent in three-row SUV design. However, the ability to configure seating based on journey requirements provides genuine practical flexibility.

Powertrain Specification and Performance Metrics

SsangYong simplified the engine lineup to a single option: a turbocharged 2.2-litre diesel unit producing 179 horsepower at standard specification with 420 Newton-metres of torque throughout the rev range. This straightforward approach contrasts with competitors offering multiple engine choices, reducing production complexity while maintaining adequate performance capabilities.

Transmission options divide between a conventional six-speed manual gearbox fitted as standard equipment and a seven-speed automatic transmission sourced from Mercedes-Benz, offered as a £2,000 premium option. The automatic variant appeals to buyers prioritizing smooth, effortless driving in urban environments, while manual specification suits drivers demanding more direct engagement and cost consciousness.

Real-world performance testing revealed fuel consumption figures clustering around 26 miles per gallon during careful driving on representative UK road routes. This consumption rate represents a realistic rather than optimistic assessment, reflecting the vehicle’s substantial mass and aerodynamic characteristics. Officially quoted combined consumption figures reach 34 miles per gallon under standardized test conditions, though achieving these figures requires dedicated economy-focused driving techniques.

Acceleration figures reveal the Rexton’s modest dynamic ambitions, with zero to 62 miles per hour occupying 11.9 seconds. Maximum velocity reaches 115 miles per hour, adequate for motorway cruising but unexciting for spirited driving. These specifications honestly reflect the vehicle’s design priorities: stability, capability, and reliability supersede performance theater.

On-Road Handling and Driving Characteristics

Despite its considerable dimensions and mass, the Rexton demonstrates commendable composure during typical road driving. Body control proves adequately controlled in corners, resisting excessive lean and maintaining driver confidence during directional changes. The steering system provides weighted feedback and responsive handling characteristics, avoiding the vague disconnection that plagues some large SUVs.

The engine compartment remains acceptably quiet during normal driving, contributing to a refined cabin environment. Noise intrusion becomes noticeable only when engine revolutions exceed 3,000 per minute, beyond which characteristic diesel clatter becomes apparent. This sound signature differs from quieter petrol alternatives but remains within acceptable parameters for the diesel SUV segment.

The automatic transmission operates smoothly and unobtrusively during casual driving, though deliberate acceleration reveals a measured response rather than immediate power delivery. This measured character aligns with the overall vehicle philosophy, emphasizing predictable progression over dramatic performance.

Grip levels prove high throughout the performance envelope, and suspension tuning provides reasonable comfort during highway driving. However, the Rexton exhibits less refinement during more energetic driving on undulating terrain, and its substantial size occasionally becomes apparent during parking maneuvers in constrained urban environments. The vehicle succeeds best when driven at measured speeds rather than pushed to dynamic limits.

Off-Road Capability and Towing Performance

Where the Rexton truly distinguishes itself is in demanding terrain and towing scenarios. The vehicle incorporates a proper locking centre differential and low-range transmission mode, providing genuine off-road capability beyond many rivals. These systems allow the Rexton to traverse challenging surfaces with impressive confidence, making it genuinely capable for rural applications and occasional adventure driving.

Real-world testing confirmed the manufacturer’s assertion that the Rexton can tow braked trailers up to 3,500 kilograms without strain. When coupled to a weighted horsebox, the vehicle demonstrated stable, controlled towing characteristics across various road conditions. Body-on-frame construction contributes to this capability, providing structural rigidity necessary for maintaining stability when hauling substantial loads.

For country estate owners, equestrian enthusiasts, and farmers, the Rexton’s practical capability justifies selection over competitors emphasizing urban refinement. The vehicle’s ability to work genuinely rather than simply appearing capable represents its core value proposition for these customer segments.

Warranty Protection and Consumer Confidence

SsangYong provides a five-year unlimited mileage warranty covering manufacturing defects and component failures. This extended protection provides reassurance to buyers unfamiliar with the brand’s reliability reputation, mitigating purchase hesitation. The comprehensive warranty reflects manufacturer confidence in quality standards while offering genuine peace of mind during the critical early ownership years.

Pricing Positioning and Market Competitiveness

Starting prices exceed £27,000 in the UK market, representing a significant evolution from SsangYong’s traditional value-oriented positioning. This pricing places the Rexton in direct competition with established manufacturers including Hyundai and Kia, requiring the vehicle to justify selection against more familiar brands. The manufacturer gambled that substantial improvements in interior quality, design sophistication, and overall refinement would attract buyers willing to consider alternatives to conventional choices.

This pricing strategy represents SsangYong’s deliberate move away from budget-segment dominance toward credible competition in the mainstream large SUV category. Rather than competing purely on price, the manufacturer positioned the Rexton as offering premium attributes at accessible pricing compared to traditional market leaders.

Comparative Standing and Market Reception

Professional automotive assessments have provided measured evaluations, acknowledging the Rexton’s genuine improvements while noting that it remains a relatively unconventional choice compared to established competitors. Reviewers consistently praise the vehicle’s practical capability, towing prowess, spaciousness, and value orientation. Criticism typically focuses on ride characteristics in demanding driving situations and the substantial mass that occasionally becomes apparent during spirited cornering.

The Rexton succeeds as a pragmatic choice for buyers prioritizing functionality and capability over premium brand prestige. Its appeal concentrates among rural residents, outdoor enthusiasts, commercial operators, and families seeking practical seven-seat accommodation without excessive expenditure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes the 2017 Rexton from its predecessor?
The second generation represents essentially a complete redesign, featuring entirely new bodywork, modernized interior materials, refined driving characteristics, and contemporary styling. Very few components carry over from the earlier model, reflecting SsangYong’s commitment to fundamental improvement rather than incremental evolution.

How does the Rexton compare regarding interior quality?
Modern Rexton cabins feature genuine leather, authentic wood trim, and soft-touch materials that rival Hyundai and Kia products. Earlier generations relied heavily on hard plastics and cost-cutting measures; the new approach prioritizes a premium tactile experience throughout the cabin environment.

Is the Rexton genuinely capable off-road?
Yes. Unlike many modern SUVs optimized for on-road driving, the Rexton incorporates proper four-wheel drive systems including locking centre differentials and low-range modes, providing legitimate off-road capability for challenging terrain and demanding applications.

What fuel consumption should realistic owners anticipate?
Real-world testing indicates approximately 26 miles per gallon during normal driving, though official figures quote 34 miles per gallon under standardized conditions. Actual consumption varies based on driving style, road conditions, and vehicle loading.

Does the automatic transmission justify its £2,000 premium?
For buyers prioritizing ease of use in urban environments, the Mercedes-sourced seven-speed automatic provides smooth, seamless operation. However, the standard manual offers better value for those comfortable with manual engagement or primarily driving in rural settings.

Conclusion: Practical Capability Meets Refined Comfort

The 2017 SsangYong Rexton represents a successful transition from budget positioning toward credible mainstream competition. By substantially improving interior materials, modernizing visual design, and refining driving dynamics, SsangYong created a vehicle with genuine appeal for pragmatic buyers seeking capability without excessive premium. While not universally acclaimed as the most refined large SUV available, the Rexton offers outstanding practical value for specific buyer demographics prioritizing functional capability, spaciousness, and reliability over brand prestige. For rural residents, equestrian enthusiasts, and families demanding seven-seat accommodation with authentic off-road competence, the Rexton merits serious consideration within the competitive large SUV marketplace.