Ssangyong has unveiled the 2014 Rodius MPV at the 2013 Geneva Auto Show. It is the second generation model and it looks big step-up from its processor which mocked for being bland despite its high level of practicality.
This one of the first major models to roll out of Ssangyong’s stables after it was finally taken over by Mahindra and Mahindra in March in 2011. It has been designed for a single purpose – to carry lot of people. It has all the features of a decent MPV and is extremely large in all directions. It can seat between 9 to 11 people depending on the configuration and has up to 3240litres of cargo space, though there is no clarity on how many seats are folded to get this number.
The MPV is being offered in three variants the Luxury Touring, Grand Touring and the Royal Touring. The top-end Royal touring gets a touch-screen infotainment and a refreshed dashboard design to appeal to younger buyers.
The Rodius is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine that produces 155bhp and 360Nm of torque. The engine can be had either with a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. Reports suggest the Rodius or Korando Turismo as it is known in South Korea might also get a 3.2-litre petrol mill but that is unlikely to be an option in markets where petrol is considered too expensive (that includes us too).
The European spec Rodius will also get features like an electronic four-wheel drive, ESP, anti-rollover protection and Brake assist. It is likely to go on sale across Europe within the next few months and is likely to be successful as the previous generation Rodius has been on sale for quite a while now.
Despite the fact that Indian influence has now entered Ssangyong, it is unlikely that the Rodius will be launched for Indian market due to its high price or at least until some form of local operations begin.
