KOREAN car maker SsangYong might not be as well-known in this country as Kia and Hyundai but its 4x4s and crossovers have been around here since the nineties.

There was a three door 4x4 called Korando in the late nineties, but the company reused the name in 2011 for a new crossover SUV competing with the likes of the Nissan Qashqai.

It's a good looking five seater and the engine option is easy, because there are only two. The 2.0-litre turbo diesel producing 150bhp will be found in most models but there is also a 2.2-litre with 175 used in a few with higher spec.

The majority sold in this country have been front wheel drive as is the norm with most other SUVs these days - fitted with the 2.0-litre engine, and this helps towards an economy average of 47mpg in the government figures. That's likely to give a real driving average of 35 to 40.

There are some with 4WD, so if you need mud-plugging or extra winter traction, make sure you have it, but it was cost a little extra in lower economy.

Gearboxes are either six speed manual or automatic. The manual can be a little notchy but the auto is pretty good, and suits the vehicle well.

The engine is quite noisy until it's up to cruising speed, but it has plenty of pulling power for good acceleration, and the maximum towing weight is an excellent two tonnes. It has enough grunt to give zero to 62 miles an hour in 10 seconds. As with many SUV's, there's a fair amount of roll in the corners so it's not a good idea to push it too hard, but in this one, there is also little feel from the steering, and that doesn't instil confidence.

Comfort is fair in town and out on the open road but the roly-poly feel can get a little wearing at times. Supportive seats require little adjustment to find a decent driving position however.

All products from the Korean firm have a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty so buying one should transfer the remainder to you.

Safety is covered by six airbags and traction control, but roadholding is not up to the best in class, with a distinct lack of grip when pushed a too hard.

Inside, there is plenty of head and legroom front and rear, and the boot gives 466 litres of load space with the folding rear seats up.

EX models come with parking sensors, audio remote control, reach and height adjustable steering, height adjustable driver's seat, cruise, alarm, climate and heated seats.

Upper models add sat nav, leather upholstery and electric front seats.

Pay about £8,300 for a '16 16-reg ELX 2.0, or £11,800 for an '18 18-reg LE 2.2 automatic.

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