NEW 4X4S
New design language previewed off-road model to come X200 codename for ‘next generation SUV’ from Korean 4x4 specialist • Fully electric
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sangYong has previewed the styling of the X200 – its codename for what it calls its ‘next generation SUV.’ If the company’s sketches are accurate, this will look something like a cross between a Jeep Wrangler and a Toyota FJ Cruiser. With the Rexton and Korando both still many years from replacement, the identity of the new vehicle is something of a mystery. The oldest model in the company’s current range, the Tivoli was only facelifted last year – and this is a crossover whose character would be dramatically at odds with the hardcore appearance of the X200. SsangYong has also recently revealed what it calls the J100 – a medium-sized SUV which will sit between the Korando and the Rexton in its range. This will be fully electric; like the Rexton, it will also spawn a pick-up variant. The J100 is scheduled to go on sale in Korea in 2022, with European markets following on. Before this, SsangYong’s first full EV, the Korando e-motion, is due here before the end of 2021 – having been delayed by the global shortage of semiconductors following its introduction in Korea in June. Again, the sketches for this vehicle show a return to much more aggressive design language than has been apparently in SsangYong’s most recent models. There are similarities to some of Land Rover’s recent products, and in pick-up form the front end bears more than a passing resemblance to the current Mitsubishi. L200. This inevitably lead to speculation that the J100 will ultimately become the replacement for the current Musso. However this vehicle is still a long way from replacement, with a first facelift since launch in 2018 due to appear on the forecourt towards the end of this year. The current Musso is based on the Rexton, itself recently facelifted, so
14 | OCTOBER 2021
3pp Scene New 4x4s Oct 21.indd 14
4x4 29/08/2021 21:51
