SsangYongs have been on sale in the UK since the ’90s – the company usually offers big SUVs for less than the majority of their competitors. Sadly, most of their models have proved to be lacklustre alternatives to the likes of the Kia Sportage, Suzuki Vitara and Nissan Qashqai. To drive, the Korando isn’t much fun, but most people buy one because they need an SUV either for tackling rough terrain or towing – two roles the SsangYong is perfectly suited to.
Pros Lots of space Relatively economical Generous standard kit
Cons Fast depreciation Dull styling Cheap feeling interior
The SsangYong Korando gives you a lot of car for your money – but nowhere near as much as a Dacia Duster.The SsangYong Korando is the brand’s mid-size SUV, pitched as a low-cost rival to the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. On the move, the Korando isn’t as stable as a lot of its rivals, either – it tends to wallow about when going around corners and has an uncomfortable ride.
Pros Good value for money Spacious interior Low emissions
Cons Noisy diesel engine Poor-quality plastics Uncomfortable suspension
Not only was it a handsome addition to the compact crossover market, it was also the firm’s very first monocoque model – meaning it delivered a far better approximation of a car’s handling characteristics than any of the body-on-frame SUVs that continue to fill out the firm’s modest lineup. On the plus side, the Korando gets large storage bins, reach and rake adjustment for the steering wheel and generous equipment levels on higher-spec models. It is also competitive on interior space; offering decent leg and headroom for rear passengers, and acceptable luggage space. The interior is slightly less forgettable, but only because it comes partly clad in the kind of cheap plastic which cannot otherwise find a home in this class. The redesigned dashboard makes ergonomic sense, although it hasn’t lost any of its brittleness.
Since this is only the second year for the Eclipse Cross, Mitsubishi has made very few changes. Midrange LE models now come with gloss-black window-switch controls and all Eclipse Cross models can now be equipped with roof rails.
Pros Provocative styling, sturdy build, well-paired engine and transmission.
Cons Busy rear design, ho-hum fuel economy.
The 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has adventurous style, but its running gear’s strictly ordinary.
Pros Sharp styling Low price of entry Solid warranty Safety features standard on most trims…
Cons …But not on the base model Not a value proposition Short on interior space Inexpensive-looking materials
The 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.All-wheel drive no longer standard for most trim levels.SE trim includes additional advanced safety features.
PROS Provides lots of standard features Peppy performance from turbocharged engine Easy-to-use infotainment system
CONS Ride quality is overly soft and bouncy Subpar handling abilities Disappointing fuel economy
