SsangYong Rexton W (2013 – 2017) Review
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SsangYong Rexton W (2013 – 2017) At A Glance
Very good value for money, has a strong towing ability making it ideal for caravanners, feels strong and robust, impressive five-wear warranty cover a wide range of components.
A revamp of the old Rexton which was crude and dated, automatic gearbox is slow to respond.
SsangYong is giving its ageing Rexton a new lease of life with the launch of the Rexton W. The facelift brings a new look as well as much needed improvements to the interior. The new front end gives the Rexton a much neater appearance than the ungainly model it replaces, although the basic shape remains unchanged.
As before it uses a body on frame construction with double wishbone and coil spring suspension to the front plus a five link rigid axle with coil springs at the rear. Cutting edge it may not be, but the Rexton is designed as a proper off roader.
Power comes from SsangYong's own 2.0-litre diesel engine with 155PS and 360Nm of torque which peaks from just 1500rpm making it ideal for towing. It has a three tonne towing capability too which is ideal if you have a full-size caravan or a double horsebox. A six-speed manual gearbox comes as standard or there's a five-speed Mercedes-Benz sourced T-Tronic automatic which costs an extra £1500, however, it's an automatic that feels dated.
The inside has been overhauled with new aluminium-effect and chrome finishes, plus soft-touch materials while it retains the third row of seats which flip out of the boot floor. And as you'd expect from a brand like SsangYong, standard equipment levels are high with all models getting cruise control, air conditioning, electrically operated and heated door mirrors, a leather covered steering wheel plus iPod and Bluetooth connectivity.
A high spec ELX model was launched in 2015 and comes with extras such as navigation, special 18-inch alloy wheels, a new multi-function steering wheel and updated instruments plus heated rear seats. It also has a plusher interior. It's more expensive at £27,995 but you're still getting an awful lot of kit for that money, especially when compared to the competition.
The Rexton comes with SsangYong's five-year unlimited mileage warranty. All the major mechanical components are covered including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock absorbers and even the audio system. Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles plus the battery and paintwork for three years.
It may not be the most fashionable of cars - or the most modern - but when it comes to value for money in a big SUV, not a lot can match the Rexton W.
Reviews for SsangYong Rexton W (2013 – 2017)'s top 3 rivals
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SsangYong Rexton W (2013 – 2017) handling and engines
- Engines range from 2.0 to 2.2
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 26–37 mpg
The biggest difference between the original SsangYong Rexton and this new W variant is what's under the bonnet. Where as the old car had a 2.7-litre Mercedes-Benz derived diesel engine, this updated car uses a 2.0-litre diesel of SsangYong's own design.
Despite being a smaller capacity, the more modern SsangYong engine generates a similar amount of power to its predecessor, generating 153PS, compared to 163PS from the old engine. Official fuel consumption has improved from 31mpg to 38mpg, too.
In practice, the Rexton's 2.1-tonne weight continues to blunt the performance. It's the kind of car that builds speed steadily and doesn't like to be hurried too much. Once up to speed, it's happy enough to cruise, but the engine can be rather raucous if push too hard.
With a 0-62mph time of 11.6 seconds, it's hardly sprightly, but most buyers will be more interested in the fact that it can tow up to 3000kg - a full 1000kg more than the 2.2-litre diesel Hyundai Santa Fe and well ahead of everything else in this price bracket.
The 2.0-litre diesel is paired with either a five-speed manual or the Tiptronic automatic gearbox, which unlike the new engine, remains sourced from Mercedes-Benz. Although smooth, it has the feel of a previous-generation automatic gearbox - it's too long geared and far too slow to make changes. It does nothing to make up for the engine's shortcomings.
The Rexton has failed to keep up with many of the advances we've seen in off-roader technology in recent years. It sits on an fashioned ladder-frame chassis, which means the body of the car sits on a chassis, rather than the body and chassis being part of the same structure.
While four-wheel drive systems have come on leaps and bounds in other models, the Rexton W doggedly sticks to a low-ratio gearbox. It defaults t rear-wheel drive, but switches to four-wheel drive when the dash-mounted dial is turned. That's not a bad thing in itself, but it requires more thought - and work - than modern equivalents.
Out on the road, the old-school ladder chassis and soft suspension mean that the body can roll and lean into corners. There's noticeable sideways movement from the body even on straights. That said, the ride is acceptable and you can mitigate some of its handling issues by making stately, rather than swift, progress.
Again, much of this becomes irrelevant if you're using the Rexton W to tow and plan to drive at more sedate speeds. But switch to a more modern off-roader and you will instantly notice the difference.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 | 38 mpg | - | 196 g/km |
| 2.0 Automatic | 36 mpg | - | 206 g/km |
| 2.2 | 40 mpg | - | 184 g/km |
| 2.2 Automatic | 38–40 mpg | - | 194 g/km |
Real MPG average for the SsangYong Rexton W (2013 – 2017)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
81%
Real MPG
26–37 mpg
MPGs submitted
9
SsangYong Rexton W (2013 – 2017) interior
- Boot space is 1338–248 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4755 mm |
| Width | 1900–2160 mm |
| Height | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2820–2835 mm |
The Rexton W’s interior is on a par with a number of similar models from Kia and Hyundai. The trouble is, these are the Kia and Hyundai models from ten years ago (or more) like the original 2002 Santa Fe - not the beautifully-built Volkswagen-esque cars that we know today. It lacks finesse, feels incredibly dated and has some awkwardly-sited buttons and switches.
But if you look past that, there are plus points. The first is the fact that all Rexton Ws are seven-seaters as standard, which is unusual at this price. Those rearmost seats are great for small kids, but the shallow footwell makes them unsuitable for older children or adults.
The middle row of three has a decent amount of head and legroom - even for three passengers - which is also repeated for those up front. Legroom for the front passenger is very good and the driver gets a commanding view of the road ahead.
On the downside, the rear view is limited by the small rear quarterlight windows (something that is exacerbated when the car is full of people). There’s no reach adjustment on the steering wheel but there is plenty of seat adjustment (electrically on EX models) which mitigates the problem. As well as a roomy interior, the boot is a decent size, too.
The standard level of equipment represents good value for money. Even entry-level SX models get climate control, cruise control, alloy wheels and Bluetooth. The EX models get electrically adjustable leather seats, a sunroof, rear parking sensors and privacy glass. Optional extras include DAB radio and satellite navigation.
A top of the range ELX version was launched in April 2015 and has a new beige/grey leather interior, a redesigned multi-function leather covered steering wheel, heated seats, updated instrumentation, LED daytime running lights and navigation.
SsangYong Rexton W (2013 – 2017) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4755 mm |
| Width | 1900–2160 mm |
| Height | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2820–2835 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 2095–2128 kg |
| Boot Space | 1338–248 L |
| Warranty | |
| Servicing | - |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Alternative | Full-size spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £22,010–£28,995 |
| Insurance Groups | 31–35 |
| Road Tax Bands | I–K |
| Official MPG | 36.2–40.4 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | - |
On sale until May 2019
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Estate 2.2 ELX Auto 5dr | £28,995 | 38.1 mpg | - |
| Estate 2.2 EX 5dr | £25,495 | 40.4 mpg | - |
| Estate 2.2 EX Auto 5dr | £26,995 | 38.1 mpg | - |
| Estate 2.2 SE 5dr | £22,995 | 40.4 mpg | - |
| Estate 2.2 SE Auto 5dr | £24,495 | 38.1 mpg | - |
On sale until April 2017
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Estate 2.0 EX 5dr | £24,510 | 38.2 mpg | - |
| Estate 2.0 EX Auto 5dr | £26,010 | 36.2 mpg | - |
| Estate 2.0 SX 5dr | £22,010 | 38.2 mpg | - |
| Estate 2.2 SE Auto 5dr | £24,850 | 40.4 mpg | - |
Model History
October 2013
The new SsangYong Rexton W reaches the UK this winter bringing an all new-look to a familiar model line, inside and out. The new car uses a body on frame construction for maximum strength - the accepted approach for a ‘proper’ off-roader - and double wishbone and coil spring suspension to the front, and a five link rigid axle with coil springs at the rear.
The Rexton W is powered by SsangYong’s own 2.0 litre turbo charged e-XDi200 diesel engine offering a level of performance and NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) control that has already been tested, proven and praised in the marketplace.
The engine delivers maximum power of 155PS/4,000rpm and maximum torque of 360Nm/1,500-2,800rpm, and is designed to provide low end torque whatever the conditions on or off road.
There’s the choice of a 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed Mercedes-Benz T-Tronic automatic, ensuring world class durability, smooth gear changing and performance. And when going off road, the driver can select low range which also splits the torque equally between front and rear axles to provide all round traction and ensure optimum grip across the most challenging terrain.
With its 3 tonne towing capability, the new Rexton W will also make light work of hauling a full-size caravan, double horsebox, boat or work trailer.
Inside, the car’s cabin has been given a refreshed new look. Aluminium-effect and chrome finishes along with soft-touch materials result in a modern and comfortable environment, yet one that will prove extremely practical in everyday use.
There are seven seats - the rear row of two seats stowing conveniently beneath the boot floor. The comprehensive levels of standard equipment also include cruise control, air conditioning, electrically operated & heated door mirrors, leather covered steering wheel and gear knob, and CD & RDS radio with iPod and Bluetooth connectivity. The EX model also gets an electrically operated memory driver’s seat, leather upholstery, privacy glass, sunroof and rear parking sensors.
The car features a comprehensive package of active safety features including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Active Rollover Protection (ARP), ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Hill Descent Control (HDC). There are dual front and side air bags, while ISO-Fix and tether anchorage points for child seats are fitted on the second row.
Designed to appeal as family, leisure and work day transportation, the new Rexton W blends the multi-role flexibility off great off-road performance with the comfort and equipment levels of a luxury saloon.
Available in four exterior colours, Carbonic Grey, Space Black, Silent Silver and Grand White, the Rexton W can now be ordered from over 50 SsangYong dealers across the UK.
| Rexton W | 2.0 SX | 2.0 EX | 2.0 EX |
| Transmission | Manual | Manual | Auto |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Net retail price | 17,888 | 19,971 | 21,100 |
| VAT @ 20% | 3,577 | 3,994 | 4,220 |
| Retail price | 21,465 | 23,965 | 25,320 |
| First registration fee | 55 | 55 | 55 |
| Road fund licence - year one | 475 | 475 | 620 |
| On the road price | £21,995 | £24,495 | £25,995 |
April 2015
Rexton W ELX launched
SsangYong announced a new range-topping model to its Rexton W line-up - the ELX. The five-seat Rexton W ELX gets a number of significant enhancements over the EX model, including a luxurious new beige/grey leather interior - seats, door trims and matching carpets, a new multi-function leather covered steering wheel and updated instrumentation.
There are also distinctive 18-inch Diamond cut alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights within the headlamp units, front parking sensors, auto-dipping rear view mirror, heated rear seats and navigation to set the car apart, which is also now available in a smart new Dandy blue metallic finish. It's priced at £27,995.
December 2015
New 2.2-litre diesel for Rexton W
Maximum power for the new e-XDi220 engine is increased to 178PS and torque to 400Nm - up by 15% and 11% respectively over the previous Euro 5 diesel 2.0 litre engine. Maximum torque is delivered from a low of 1,400rpm and maintained through a wide range up to 2,800rpm for smooth, progressive driving.
Big strides have also been made with CO2 emissions which have been reduced to 184g/km, down from 196g/km on the previous manual transmission model, while fuel economy is considerably improved and now up to 40mpg (combined cycle) compared with 38.2mpg on the model it replaces.
| Model range | £ |
| 2.2 SE | £22,995 |
| 2.2 EX | £25,495 |
| 2.2 EX automatic | £26,995 |
| 2.2 ELX automatic | £28,995 |
What to watch out for
Report of continual problem of engine light illuminating on January 2016 SsangYong Rexton ELX 2.2 diesel automatic, despite 7 attempts by dealer to fix it.
