SsangYong Korando 2019 revealed

SsangYong has released the first pictures of the new Korando mid-size SUV ahead of its Korean launch later this month.

The press release (issued in Korean) includes single exterior and interior images, previewing the brand’s previously-teased and heavily digitized ‘Blaze Cockpit’ design language. There is also an image of the cargo area full of golf clubs.

SsangYong has heavily teased its new 'Blaze Cockpit' design on its social media accounts.

It also lets us in on the details of the Korando’s Korean domestic specification, including a “newly-developed” 1.6-litre diesel engine, a 10.25-inch multimedia touchscreen, a 9-inch digital dashboard, 551 litres (VDA) of storage space in the boot and the option of an electric tailgate.

Power figures for the new diesel engine are yet to be revealed but expect an improvement on the 85kW/300Nm 1.6-litre diesel engine currently available in the Tivoli hatch.

Korean-spec Korandos will also be available with active safety features including auto emergency braking (AEB), Lane Keep Assist (LKAS), Driver Attention Alert (DAA), as well as something called ‘Safety Distance Alert’ which could be forward collision warning.

These features could vary by the time the Korando arrives in Australia but take them as a good indication given the SsangYong Rexton large SUV came similarly equipped (at least in higher grades) for our market.

SsangYong brags that the 551L boot will hold four golf bags.

The Korando will join SsangYong’s aggressive push back into Australia which has already seen the Tivoli hatch, XLV small SUV, Rexton seven-seat SUV and Musso ute re-launched.

A long-wheelbase version of the Musso ute, known in Korea as the Rexton Sports Khan, is the next vehicle set to hit our shores. SsangYong has not ruled out the return of the Stavic people mover, either.

All SsangYong products in Australia carry seven year/unlimited kilometre warranties and matching service plans.

We should know more details after the Korando’s official international debut at the Geneva motor show next month, and hopefully more about Australian timing and spec.

What do you think of the Korando's new look? Share your thoughts in the comments below.