AN UPGRADED diesel engine, independent rear suspension and a full-time four-wheel drive system headline the improvements for SsangYong's Rexton Limited off-roader, which remains priced at $53,990.
Now featuring variable-geometry turbocharger technology, the 2.7-litre common-rail turbo-diesel that powers the South Korean maker's flagship SUV offers 17 per cent more torque and 18 per cent more power than before.
The revised engine's outputs are now 142kW (versus 121kW) and 402Nm of torque (up from 340Nm), while official fuel consumption remains a competitive 9.2L/100km.
Directing the extra torque to the ground more effectively is a new independent rear suspension system and a full-time four-wheel drive system to treplace the superseded model's live rear axle and part-time 4x4 system.
SsangYong Australia's general manager sales and marketing, Brad Larkham, says the extra urge and improved IRS and AWD systems will make Rexton more capable off-road.
"We have had such good feedback on the Rexton, this upgrade will make the Limited even more appealing to buyers and establishes it as a really strong value proposition in the SUV market," he said.
"The introduction of variable turbo technology, independent rear suspension and full time all wheel drive, gives the Rexton better off-road and road performance.
"Fuel efficiency is such an important factor in the current economic climate and having a seven-seat luxury SUV that can offer truly efficient motoring is a real advantage in the new car market," said Mr Larkham.
The VGT engine, suspension and drivetrain changes are in addition to upgrades received by Rexton when it was cosmetically facelifted in late 2006.