The New SsangYong Kyron 2008

There are six SsangYong Kyron SUV models with most using the latest clean and economical 2.0 litre, turbocharged common rail diesel engine, with two or four wheel drive and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. The SsangYong Kyron goes head-to-head with the Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe and Chevrolet Captiva.

At £14,995 (previous Kyron models started at £17,995) the SsangYong Kyron S easily undercuts its competitors and even at this price, gets air conditioning, electronic stability programme (ESP), hill descent control (HDC), ABS brakes, a Kenwood radio and CD player and steering wheel audio controls. The five speed manual transmission is mated to the 141 PS turbo diesel engine with 310 Nm of torque at 2,250rpm. All Kyrons are versatile and practical five-seaters that will tow up to 2.3 metric tons. The extra urban fuel consumption is up to a pleasing 45.6mpg.

Add part-time four-wheel drive, and the SsangYong Kyron S 4WD comes in at £16,995 with Mercedes-Benz 5-speed T-Tronic automatic transmission adding just £1,500 for the Kyron S 4WD Auto.

There are two Kyron EX models, both with part-time four-wheel drive and a choice of manual or auto transmission. EX models gain rear parking sensors, electric folding door mirrors, larger alloy wheels, side airbags, leather upholstery and a Kenwood touch screen audio and navigation system. The EX Auto also has cruise control. The Kyron EX is £19,495 and the EX Auto is £20,995.

For the ultimate in comfort, equipment and go-anywhere four-wheel drive ability, the SsangYong Kyron 2.7 SPR (£22,495) wants for nothing. Its huge towing capability comes from permanent four-wheel drive and the newest SsangYong 2.7 litre, turbocharged common rail diesel engine. This gives 165 PS and a thumping 340 Nm of torque at 2,525rpm. With the Mercedes T-Tronic auto transmission, it still returns an extra urban consumption of 34mpg.