SsangYong XLV

The Korean company SsangYong Motor Company does not only produce SUVs. In fact, its most popular minivan is the SsangYong XLV, which has nothing to envy to other cars in the segment.

Although other brands such as Citroen and Volkswagen dominate the market, this car has some aspects that could make us reconsider our choice.

Perhaps the most popular and storied brands dominate the market, but if we want comparable performance at a lower price perhaps we should take a look at the  SsangYong XLV. Its size is similar to the rest of its class and its behavior is close to the results achieved by the large manufacturers.

Exterior design

The measurements of this minivan are 1.80 meters wide and 1.60 m high. This only means that the SsanYong XLV has nothing to envy the dimensions of its competitors on the market.

The exterior of the model is adorned by lines that highlight the aesthetics of simplicity. According to experts, its front part would be inspired by the appearance of ‘the open wings of an eagle’. In general, its sporty design would be based on the company’s most compact SUV: the Tivoli.

Interior design and habitability

One of the characteristics of the Korean manufacturer is the installation of first-rate technological accessories, even in its lower segments. The line of many of its cars is divided into three: Line, Premium and Limited.

The most economical model comes standard with a speed programmer, bluetooth connection and trip computer. With the medium version we ascend to another level, thanks to the climate control located in the two areas of the cabin, multimedia screen, rear camera and even synthetic leather upholstery.

By making a bigger investment with the Limited model, we can enjoy a GPS navigation system, a sunroof and heated seats. The habitability is good, being 1.80 meters wide, which is more than enough to generate a feeling of comfort for the pilot and his passengers.

We can also say that the front seats of this vehicle are large enough; the second row is very comfortable, even for the tallest passengers.

The height of the car allows two people measuring 1.85 meters to sit with enough space. The rear seatbacks can tilt up to seven degrees back.

Both the stereo, bluetooth, and the air conditioning work perfectly. In the capacity of its trunk,  574 liters are more than enough and normal for vehicles of this level.

Engines and behavior

The  SsangYong XLV offers two engine modes: gasoline and diesel. The first is 1.6 liters, rated at 128 horsepower and comes with a manual gearbox. For its part, the diesel engine has the same capacity in liters, but generates a maximum power of 115 hp.

If we opt for this model, we can choose between a manual gearbox or an automatic one, both with six ratios. Automatic traction is perhaps one of the lowest points on the vehicle, having a slight tendency to understeer.

With this Asian car we will be able to get out of a hurry when we enter uneven dirt terrain and muddy areas, difficult to travel.

Both in the city and in the countryside, the vehicle will serve us well, as long as we take in moderation and anticipate the curves. We have  a transmission that is not as fast as other vehicles in its own segment.

In practice, this car is worth much more for its internal comfort, carefree design, and moderate performance that can be well valued by a family than meets the eye.

Only the most demanding drivers will require more powerful operation. Few compact minivans on the market will give us so much for so little price.

Price

Despite its large size and excellent equipment, the starting price of the SsangYong XLV is almost always 19,000 euros. Now, it is very possible to find this vehicle for 15,250 euros, in some promotions. Meanwhile, its most equipped version is around 26,550 euros.

Comfort and special elements for a low price summarize the advantages of acquiring this car. There may be better performing minivans on the market, but their value will be higher.

The time may have come to stop looking at traditional manufacturers and give this fledgling Korean brand a chance. The family will probably appreciate it when they get into this car.