Ssangyong debuts new models despite doom

Reports in a Korean newspaper suggest that Ssangyong could potentially be closed down, with the SUV maker's future to be determined within the next two months.

However, Ssangyong is on the offensive, with debuts at the Seoul Motor Show next month including a new crossover rival for the Toyota RAV4 and the company's diesel-hybrid technology.

Taking centre stage will be the C200 'crossover utility car', which Ssangyong describes as being of similar size to the Toyota RAV4, Nissan Qashqai and Honda CRV.

The C200 will be Ssangyong's first vehicle based on a monocoque chassis, meaning it does not have a separate chassis - as all Ssangyong's current cars have.

Under the bonnet sits a new 2.0-litre turbodiesel, producing up to 175bhp and complying with the Euro V emissions requirements. Though an automatic gearbox is fitted to the show car, manual versions will also be available in time, as might both front- and four-wheel drive options.

Ssangyong's proprietary diesel-hybrid technology will also be on display in Seoul, promising massive reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, though there is no word on a production date as yet.

The Seoul Show opens its doors on April 2nd.

Shane O' Donoghue