SsangYong Rexton (2001-2017) review

If you’re looking for the biggest SUV bang for your buck, then the SsangYong Rexton W deserves to be on your shopping list. As big as the mighty Toyota Landcrusier, the seven-seater SsangYong has prices to match much smaller models, such as the VW Tiguan and Kia Sportage.

A recent extensive facelift has given the Rexton W a fresher look. It's not just the outside that has been upgraded, but there's been an update for the interior, too. It also comes with a Ssangyong developed 2.0-litre diesel engine paired with a Mercedes-sourced five-speed automatic gearbox.

However, while on the surface it may seem an improvement, it still can’t match newer rivals for sharp driving dynamics. On the plus side it does come loaded with standard kit and is backed by a generous five-year, unlimited mileage warranty.

Previously the Rexton was powered by a Mercedes-sourced 2.7-litre diesel, but this has now been superseded by the Rexton W with the company's own 153bhp 2.0-litre diesel. 

Entry-level cars get a six-speed manual gearbox, while EX buyers can choose between a six-speed manual and a smooth, Mercedes-sourced five-ratio auto. An old-fashioned separate ladder frame chassis, poor body control and vague steering mean it’s best to drive the SsangYong sedately on the road – it certainly can’t match the car-like composure of the Hyundai Santa Fe.

Used - available now

2022 Peugeot

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36,594 milesManualPetrol1.2L

Cash £11,295

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2023 Peugeot

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43,477 milesAutomaticPetrol1.2L

Cash £15,995

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2018 Renault

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38,400 milesManualPetrol0.9L

Cash £8,495

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2015 Renault

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41,335 milesManualPetrol1.2L

Cash £8,995

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Still, a low range transfer box, hill decent control and excellent ground clearance make the Rexton a capable companion off-road. Still, refinement has been improved, with less engine noise and vibration apparent in the cabin. And despite the drop in engine size, the Rexton W is still capable of towing three tonnes.

While the Rexton W is cheap to buy, it could cost a small fortune to run. Despite the smaller 2.0-litre diesel engine now being used running costs are still relatively high.

Emissions are 196g/km for the manual models - meaning an annual tax bill of £260, while the auto car emits 206g/km (a £280 bill to tax). There has been a greater improvement in fuel economy, 38.2mpg for manual versions and 36.2mpg for the auto.

However, this is still some way off the competition. As you’d expect for a big off-roader from a budget brand, the SsangYong sheds its value at a terrifying rate – so you’ll get very little cash back after three years of motoring. Still, the rugged underpinning should be relatively inexpensive to service, while a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty adds extra peace of mind.

The SsangYong Rexton W certainly isn’t going to win any awards for its styling, but there’s no denying it has plenty of presence. There's been a major facelift for the exterior of the car, including raked back headlights, restyled grille and revised front bumper.

Buyers can choose from SX and EX trim levels, with the latter getting eye-catching 18-inch alloys, leather seats and rugged-looking running boards. Inside, the Rexton has also had an update with aluminium-effect and chrome finishes along with soft-touch material.

Sadly, despite the upgrades, the cabin quality still doesn’t stand up to close scrutiny and feels some way behind its rivals. At least it’s solidly screwed together, and all versions get keyless entry, climate control and a multi-function steering wheel. However, sat-nav is a £1,000 option, and it looks like an aftermarket addition.

This is an area where the Rexton W is able to shine, as all versions get a versatile seven-seat layout. And while the third row is best used for children, there’s enough room behind the chairs for 248-litres of luggage.

Fold the rearmost seats away and you liberate estate car-rivalling levels of carrying capacity. Elsewhere, the cabin is equally spacious, with generous head and legroom for occupants in the first two rows – no off-road rival offers as much room for the money.

A quick inspection of the cabin reveals plenty of useful cubby holes and storage boxes, plus a large glovebox. And if you’re planning on towing large loads, then the SsangYong’s grippy four-wheel-drive system and impressive 3,200kg weight limit make it a strong choice.

The Rexton W hasn’t been subjected to the Euro NCAP tests, so its ability to protect in a crash is unknown. Solid underpinnings mean it is likely to be strong, while all models benefit from electronic stability control. However, entry-level models only get driver and passenger airbags, while the range-topping EX adds side bags.

The new 2.0-litre diesel engine is something of an unknown quantity, compared to the well-know Mercedes engine of old, though it has been reliable in other models across the Ssangyong reange.

The rest of the Rexton W’s mechanicals are equally rugged, so breakdowns shouldn’t be a concern. Only the cheap feeling cabin fittings could be vulnerable to hard use.