The market of frame SUVs in recent years has undergone significant changes, giving way to crossovers with a load-bearing body, but real connoisseurs of cross-country are still looking for reliable cars for difficult conditions. SsangYong Rexton or Rexton G4 In some catalogues) remains one of the few members of the class that offers honest frame design, modern design and rich equipment at a relatively affordable price. This car is often seen as an alternative to Japanese and European counterparts, which can cost significantly more to maintain and buy.
In this article we will discuss in detail the technical characteristics, features of operation and hidden nuances that are important for a potential buyer to know. You will learn about the reliability of power units, the intricacies of the suspension setting and how this heavy “ship” behaves on the city road and beyond. A key feature of the model is the combination of a classic ladder-type frame with a modern all-wheel drive system Timatic. This allows the car to feel confident both in the deep mud and on the slippery asphalt of the metropolis.
Body design and dimensions
Appearances SsangYong Rexton It causes polar emotions: some call it brutal and massive, others - too bulky. However, it is impossible to deny the impressiveness of this car. Designers of the Korean company have made a bet on an aggressive front end with a characteristic grille and massive bumpers, which gives the car a solid look. The body dimensions are really impressive: the length of the car exceeds 4.8 meters, which puts it in a row with major competitors.
Body panels are made of high-quality steel with good anti-corrosion treatment, which is critical for an SUV designed to operate in harsh climatic conditions. The gaps between the body parts are kept evenly, and the paintwork demonstrates high resistance to mechanical damage from branches and gravel. It is worth noting, however, that clearance It is 220 mm, which is an excellent indicator for overcoming deep tracks and snow drifts.
- 🚙 Massive front optics with LED elements ensures excellent illumination of the track at night.
- 🛡️ Enhanced thresholds and protection of the crankcase engine often come in the basic configuration, which saves the owner's budget.
- 🔑 Access to the cabin and start of the engine are carried out through the system
Smart KeyThis is rare for the class of squatters.
⚠️ WARNING: Despite the massive bumpers, the Rexton's entry and exit angles are not record-breaking due to its long wheelbase. With extreme diagonal hanging, there is a risk of touching the ground with the “belliness”, so the installation of additional protection of the crankcase is mandatory for serious offroads.
Visibility from the cabin is good, which is facilitated by large side mirrors and a high driver position. However, the rear roof rack is wide enough to create blind spots when rebuilt, requiring increased attention or a blind spot monitoring system. Overall, the car looks modern and isn’t going to age mentally in the coming years.
Interior and ergonomics of the salon
Salon Rexton This is where Korean engineers tried to get as close as possible to the premium segment. Finishing materials please with tactile sensations: soft plastic on a torpedo, high-quality leather on the seats and pleasant to the touch inserts under wood or aluminum. Assembly panels are made carefully, foreign creaks even at large runs are rare, which indicates the high quality of components.
The center console is organized logically, although overloaded with buttons. Multimedia system with a large screen supports Apple CarPlay and Android AutoThis makes navigation and music playback as convenient as possible. The driver's seat has a wide range of adjustments, including electric adjustment of the lumbar support, which allows you to comfortably accommodate a person of any size behind the wheel.
Special attention should be paid to the three-zone climate control, which allows passengers in the back row to independently adjust the temperature. The ducts are conveniently located, and the system quickly heats or cools the volumetric cabin. Noise insulation is also performed at a high level: double windows and additional seals effectively cut off road noise and the hum of a diesel engine at high speeds.
- 🎛️ The instrument panel combines analog scales with a color display of the onboard computer, displaying the work of all-wheel drive.
- 🔌 The presence of many USB ports and 220V outlets allows you to charge gadgets for all passengers at the same time.
- 🪑 The rear sofa is adjusted by the angle of the backrest tilt, which is rare for framed SUVs and increases comfort on long trips.
⚠️ Warning: The third row of seats available in 7-seat versions is only suitable for children or short adult trips. In the unfolded state, the volume of the trunk becomes minimal, so for the transportation of large-sized cargo, the third row will have to be folded.
Technical specifications and engines
Heart of the new SsangYong Rexton It is a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine. This unit is known as e-XDi 220It has undergone many upgrades and has proven itself as a reliable and thrust-propelled engine. It develops a power of 178 horsepower and a colossal torque of 400 Nm, available already from low revs. This characteristic allows the heavy SUV to confidently start from the place and tow trailers weighing up to 3 tons.
In pair with the engine, either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-band automatic is working. AISIN. The automatic transmission works smoothly, without jerks, but does not differ in sports sharpness, which is quite expected for a car of this purpose. The mechanics, in turn, require addiction due to the long stroke of the lever, but gives the driver full control over the off-road situation.
Resource of the e-XDi 220 engine
With timely oil replacement (every 7-8 thousand km) and the use of high-quality fuel, the engine life before major repairs can exceed 350-400 thousand kilometers. A critical element is a two-mass flywheel, which requires replacement approximately once in 150-200 thousand. km.
All-wheel drive system T-Tronic (or Timatic in newer versions) works in constant mode, distributing thrust between the axles. In difficult conditions, it is possible to forcefully block the center differential, and the downshift (Low Range) increases torque by 2.5 times, making the car a serious off-road tool. Switching modes is carried out by buttons on the center console, which is convenient and safe.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Engine. | 2.2 L Diesel Turbo | Model e-XDi 220 |
| Power | 178 hp | At 4,000 rpm |
| Torque. | 400 Nm. | Available from 1,400 rpm |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 11.5 seconds | For full mass |
| Fuel consumption (mixed) | 9.5 - 10.5 l | Depends on the driving style. |
Road behaviour and patency
On paved roads Rexton He is confident, but his weight and size are affected. In the turns there are noticeable rolls, characteristic of a frame structure with high centers of gravity. The steering has a long stroke and does not differ in sharpness of reactions, however, the direct car is stable even in lateral wind. Brakes cope with the task of stopping two-ton weight, although during active driving may require more frequent replacement of pads.
The real element of this car begins where the asphalt ends. Thanks to its frame design and dependent rear suspension, the Rexton has a phenomenal energy intensity. He is not afraid of diagonal hanging, and electronic stabilization and descent control systems allow him to overcome difficult areas without the driver. The suspension perfectly “swallows” pits and tramways, which makes it an excellent choice for roads with poor surface.
☑️ Checking before off-road departure
In winter, the car shows its best side. All-wheel drive and high clearance make it easy to park in snowdrifts and confidently start on icy climbs. However, it is worth remembering that a long base can play a cruel joke on narrow snowy streets, where the turning radius of Rexton is quite large.
- ❄️ The ESP system has a snow and dirt mode that allows for small slips to self-clean the tread.
- 🏔️ Mountain descent mode (
Hill Descent Control) automatically monitors the speed on steep slopes. - 🚜 Traction-traction qualities allow you to tow heavy trailers-houses or boats without losing dynamics.
⚠️ Warning: When operating in permanent all-wheel drive (4H) on dry asphalt, a “power circulation” in the transmission may occur, leading to increased fuel consumption and tire wear. Use 4H mode only on slippery surfaces or off-road.
Service and reliability
The issue of reliability SsangYong Rexton It is often a crucial decision when buying. Statistics show that the main components of the car (engine, gearbox, transfer box) have a high resource. Korean engineers have used time-tested solutions, many of which are based on licensed technologies from Mercedes-Benz. This ensures the availability of spare parts and the possibility of repair in most service centers.
However, there are weaknesses that you need to know about. First of all, it is the sensitivity of the fuel system to the quality of diesel fuel. Using a low-grade diesel fuel can quickly disable expensive injectors and a high-pressure fuel pump. It is also worth paying attention to the condition of the front suspension silent blocks, which may require replacement at large runs on bad roads.
To extend the life of the turbine and the two-mass flywheel, try not to shut down the engine immediately after active driving or towing. Let him work 1-2 minutes on idle turns to cool the knots.
The maintenance regulations assume the replacement of oil in the engine every 10-15 thousand kilometers, however, in urban operation with frequent traffic jams, it is better to reduce the interval to 7-8 thousand. This will keep the engine clean and extend the service life of the turbocharger. Filters are also recommended to be changed more often than the regulations, especially air, if you often drive on dusty primers.
The electric part of the car is generally reliable, but there may be problems with sensors and tips due to moisture ingress when washing under pressure. Regular processing of contacts and connectors with protective compositions will help to avoid the “glitch” of electronics. Overall, Rexton content is cheaper than direct competitors in Japan or Europe.
Final conclusions and whether to buy
SsangYong Rexton It is a car with a pronounced personality, created for those who value functionality and passability above the prestige of the brand. It offers a unique combination of price, size and equipment that is difficult to find from other manufacturers. If you want a real SUV for family, travel and work that won’t ruin your budget for buying and maintaining, then the Rexton is definitely worth considering.
The Rexton is a rational choice for those who need a large, reliable and passable car, and who are willing to put up with high dimensions and average fuel consumption for the sake of honest off-road qualities.
Of course, it has drawbacks in the form of not the sharpest handling and a large turning radius, but they are the price for its off-road essence. In its price segment, it remains one of the leaders, offering a level of comfort comparable to urban crossovers, but with opportunities available only to a select few. Buying a car like this is an investment in mobility and confidence in all road conditions.
When choosing a complete set, it is worth considering options with the maximum set of safety options, since the weight of the car requires appropriate precautions. In skilled hands. Rexton It becomes an indispensable helper, able to take you where others will not even risk turning.
What is the real fuel consumption of the SsangYong Rexton in the city?
In the urban cycle with frequent traffic jams, the consumption can reach 12-14 liters per 100 km. On the road at a speed of 90-100 km / h, the car consumes about 8-9 liters, and in the combined cycle the real figure is 10-11 liters of diesel fuel.
How reliable is the Aisin automatic transmission?
The Aisin 6-AT is considered a very reliable and time-tested box. Regular oil replacement (every 60,000) It can travel more than 300,000 kilometres without major repairs. It is perfectly combined with a thrust diesel engine and is not prone to overheating even when towing.
Are there any problems with SsangYong parts in Russia?
The spare parts situation has improved in recent years. Consumers and suspension elements are widely available. Body parts and interior elements can go longer, but overall there are fewer maintenance problems than many other brands. There are specialised clubs and forums where details can be found.