2017 SsangYong G4 Rexton review, test drive

How does it drive?

Deciding on what engine to use won’t be a problem because there is only one – a 2.2 litre e-XDi220 diesel developing a healthy 187hp and 420Nm of torque. This motor comes with two gearbox options - a six-speed manual and a traditional seven-speed torque converter automatic, which is sourced from Mercedes. It’s the latter I take for a quick spin on the short test track at Ssangyong’s Pyeongtaek factory.

The first impression is how quiet this engine is for a diesel. Noise levels in the cabin are impressively low, which speaks well of the overall refinement of the car. But what’s missing, though, is a bit of punch. You don’t get that kick in the mid-range you would expect from a brawny SUV, and instead, the Rexton pulls more linearly in a tepid sort of way. This is not a particularly free-revving engine either and gets vocal and strained beyond 4,000rpm. Sadly, the impressive power and torque figures don’t stack up as well on the road, and I suspect, this 2.2-litre motor will struggle to keep up with rivals. The Rexton cruises quite well though, and the seven-speed auto has been trained to select the highest possible ratio which is good for efficiency too. If you don’t hurry it, the Rexton will do the job in a relaxed sort of way, it’s just that power doesn’t flow as effortlessly as you would like it too.

Also, the Rexton is softly sprung and rolls quite a bit. It feels quite top heavy and wallowy and encourages a more relaxed driving style. The steering is quite light and so are the other controls, and that makes this massive SUV quite easy to drive. Its mix of comfort, refinement and easy manners will appeal to city dwellers who like a chauffeur behind the wheel.

When can I buy one?

The Rexton for India, however, is far from a done deal. Mahindra is doing the math to see if this latest Ssangyong, locally made in one of its plants, can meet a very aggressive cost target. To stand a chance against established order, the Rexton should come in at least Rs 4 lakh lower. Mahindra is quietly confident that it can meet that price point and an Indian debut at the 2018 Auto Expo is a distinct possibility. There is, however, the ticklish issue of the brand. Will it be a Ssangyong or a Mahindra? And if it is a Mahindra what will it be named? XUV700 sounds about right.