Ssangyong Rexton upgrade coming in 2012/13

A facelifted Rexton was unveiled at South Korea's Busan Motor Show in June, but production delays may see the local unveiling of the upgraded model delayed until early 2013.

Along with a refreshed appearance, which includes redesigned tail lights, mirror-mounted indicators and LED daytime running lights, the most interesting new addition to the revitalised Rexton is a new engine. This 2.0 litre four-cylinder diesel is claimed to offer more torque than the Rexton's current 2-7 litre five-cylinder engine, as well as being more fuel efficient.

Ssangyong achieved 1,001 sales to July, 2012, compared to 770 at the same time last year, an increase in part due to the successful introduction of the Korando compact SUV and the new Actyon Sports Dual-Cab Ute earlier this year, both of which have been well received by Australian buyers.

"The launch of the Korando in 2011 was a key milestone for the brand, giving us a great value-for-money option in the compact SUV market and our offering has remained very competitive. As a result there was a lot of expectation around the Actyon Sports Dual-Cab Ute launch in March 2012 but our figures for June show that we have delivered a vehicle that meets the demands of the customer," commented Steven Thomas, National Sales & Marketing Manager, Ssangyong Australia.

The Rexton was introduced to the Australian market in 2003 as Ssangyong's premier mid-size offering, with the last upgrade of note being cosmetic changes made in 2010. Whether the current model offerings of RX270 XDi and RX270 XVT SPR will remain or new variants added for the relaunch has yet to be confirmed.