THERE are some high value deals driving up sales inSsangYong showrooms at the moment.

This Korean company's emphasis on value for money - especially during a recession - paid dividends last year with a 25.12 per cent increase in registrations in a market that ended 2009 over six per cent down, despite the scrappage incentive.

According to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, SsangYong was one of only 15 manufacturers to increase sales last year while more than30 others saw a decline.

The SsangYong range appeals to those looking for a well equipped, immensely practical vehicle who want value for money rather than paying the premium prices demanded by other brands.

They are especially suitable for anyone with a regular or occasional need to tow a caravan, boat, horsebox or trailer of any kind, or if you simply need to deal with whatever the winter can throw at us.

There are six SsangYong Kyron models with a choice of the latest clean and economical 2.0 and 2.7-litre, turbocharged common rail diesel engines, with two or four wheel drive and manual or automatic transmissions. Kyron prices run from £15,320 to £22,984.

Even the lowest priced Kyronincludes air conditioning, electronic stability programme, hill descent control, ABS brakes, a Kenwood radio and CD player and steering wheel audio controls. All Kyrons are versatile and practical five-seaters that will tow up to 2.3 metric tons and CO2 emissions are the lowest in the class at only 191g/km.

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

All three SsangYong Rexton models have all wheel drive and the 2.7-litre common rail turbo diesel engine for big towing capacity and off-road capability. Prices start from £20,429 and top out at £30,647.

For serious people carrying capacity, SsangYong's Rodius models come in two and four-wheel-drive - all with the 2.7-litre turbo diesel - and with automatic transmission as an option.

A full seven-seater with ample luggage space, the Rodius 270 S at £15,320 easily undercuts the competition with all Rodius models using the 2.7-litre with 165PS and massive torque. Even a vehicle this big can achieve up to 35.8mpg.