SsangYong, the renowned South Korean automotive brand, has undergone a significant transformation, rebranding itself as KGM-SsangYong. This change reflects the substantial investment made by the Korean industrial company ‘KG Group’ in 2022, becoming the majority shareholder of the SsangYong Motor Company. The rebranding initiative is being rolled out globally across the 100 countries where KGM-SsangYong operates, retaining its iconic winged logo as a tribute to its rich heritage.
Established in 1954, SsangYong Motor Company holds the distinction of being Korea’s oldest car manufacturer, specializing in the production of 4×4 vehicles and SUVs. Over the years, the company has collaborated with various partners, including Jeep and Mercedes-Benz. Despite facing financial challenges under different ownership structures, SsangYong remains steadfast in its commitment to offering well-built vehicles at competitive prices in multiple markets worldwide.
In Australia, SsangYong has a history dating back to the mid-nineties when it first entered the market, initially associated with Mercedes-Benz. The brand introduced models like the Musso 4×4, MB100, MB140 vans, Korando, and Rexton. Since 2019, SsangYong has been operating in Australia as a factory-owned entity with a National Head Office and National Parts Distribution Centre based in Melbourne.
The dawn of the KGM-SsangYong era heralds the introduction of a new model named Torres, a stylish medium-size SUV poised to compete in the demanding Australian market segment. The feature-rich Torres embodies the brand’s forward-looking vision, offering spacious interiors, exceptional value, quality, and style at attractive price points starting from $38,000 for the ELX variant.
Powering the Torres is a 1.5-litre direct-injected turbocharged petrol engine delivering 120kW of power and 280Nm of torque through a conventional six-speed automatic transmission. The engine is compliant with the Euro 6 emissions standard, with a fully electric model anticipated to be unveiled in the near future.
Stevan Dimitrovski, the national marketing manager at KGM-SsangYong, describes the Torres as a meticulously crafted medium SUV designed to offer both aesthetic appeal and practicality, catering to the active lifestyles of Australian consumers. The vehicle comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and front and rear parking sensors.
The Torres boasts a robust construction using advanced high-strength materials to enhance occupant protection in the event of a collision. With eight airbags and seat belt reminders for all seating positions, the Torres prioritizes safety alongside performance. The model’s fuel efficiency is rated at 7.4 litres per 100km for the front-wheel-drive variant and 7.9L/100km for the AWD version.
Aside from the Torres, the KGM-SsangYong Australia lineup includes the Musso dual-cab ute and Rexton seven-seat large SUV, both featuring turbo-diesel engines, all-wheel drive, and a substantial 3500kg braked towing capacity. All KGM-SsangYong models come with a comprehensive seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, catering to both personal and commercial users.
Mathew Sondergeld, the head of sales at KGM-SsangYong Australia, lauds the Torres as a vehicle that sets new benchmarks in luxury and performance. With its rugged exterior design and cutting-edge interior technology, the Torres encapsulates KGM-SsangYong’s unwavering commitment to excellence. The official launch of the new KGM-SsangYong Torres is eagerly anticipated in the Australian market next month.
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