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.
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 1-speed direct drive.Many of last year's optional advanced driving aids are now standard.Lumbar adjustment on driver's seat, rear USB ports and 8-inch display are now standard.GT gets new sound system, and new GT Premium package dresses up the interior.
PROS Delivers plug-in SUV utility without a luxury SUV price Offers a generous list of standard features Can travel up to 22 miles solely on electric battery charge Sophisticated all-wheel drive offers stability on slippery surfaces
CONS Poor cabin quality with lots of creaks and rattles Weak acceleration and vague steering make for a bad driving experience Unlike the regular Outlander, it doesn't offer a third row Small gas tank limits overall range
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander has enough value, features, and style to make it worth considering, but not to stand out.
Pros Standard features list Expanded active safety tech All-wheel drive available across the range Exterior styling
Cons Cheap cabin materials Anemic base engine V-6 isn’t much of an upgrade Cramped third-row seat
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a roomy SUV that’s very economical for short journeys if you can plug it in to charge the battery – it’s just a shame it looks a bit drab and doesn’t drive that well
Pros Cheap to run on short journeys Quiet around town Roomy back seats
Cons Terrible infotainment system Unsettled on bumpy roads Drab interior
