2023 SsangYong Rexton: Quick Review

In the realm of large SUVs, the SsangYong Rexton stands as a testament to the brand's ambition to offer comfort and luxury at an affordable price point.

Sharing underpinnings with the SsangYong Musso , the current-generation Rexton has been around since 2017 and is a 7-seater large SUV.

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Pricing and features

The Rexton's allure begins with its wallet-friendly price tag, challenging the notion that luxury demands a premium.

The range starts at $48,990 drive-away for the entry level ELX, and an extra $7000 will have you driving home in the range-topping Ultimate.

Both grades share the same 2.2-litre turbo engine producing 148kW and 441Nm– paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission sourced from Hyundai.

The Rexton range is all part-time 4x4s and have a braked towing capacity of 3500kg.

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Inside, the Rexton impresses with its spaciousness and quality. The entry level EX comes with standard strong features, including:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Synthetic leather seats
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Dual zone climate control
• Heated front and rear seats
• Ventilated front seats
• Leather steering wheel
• Power seat adjustment
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

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Moving up to the range-topping Ultimate adds:

• Sunroof
• Second row A/C vents
• Heated leather steering wheel
• Driver's seat and door mirror memory system
• Power tailgate
• Wireless phone charger
• Privacy glass
• Ambient interior lighting
• 360-degree camera

An optional Sport Pack for $2000 is available that packs in exterior chrome trims, black 20-inch alloy wheels, black roof rails and unique LED front fog lamps.

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Safety

The Rexton has not received an ANCAP rating however the vehicle is equipped with standard safety such as 9 airbags, AEB with forward collision alert, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, trailer sway control and lane-change collision alert.

Key rivals

The large 7-seater SUV segment is filled with established marques including:

• Toyota Fortuner
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Ford Everest
• Kia Sorento
• Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
• Isuzu MU-X

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

The 2023 SsangYong Rexton is a refreshing take in the large SUV segment. While it may not have the extensive legacy of some competitors, it brings to the table a unique blend of luxury, features, and value.

Because of its claustrophobic third row, the Rexton may not be the ideal choice for younger families. However, for those seeking an affordable large SUV with impressive towing capacity, ample boot space, decent fuel economy, and off-roading capabilities, the Rexton stands out. The more economical ELX variant, however, offers significant value and we reckon might be the best bang for your buck of the two.