SsangYong presented a new vision of the SUV of the future, the XAVL concept model, at the International Geneva Motor Show.

In a speech to the press, the director of SsangYong said:

“As the oldest and only specialized manufacturer of SUVs and 4x4 vehicles in Korea, SsangYong feels obliged to set new directions in this sector. It is with great pleasure that I present this concept model, which is a signpost for future generations of SsangYong cars.

The XAVL is the next installment of the XAV concept that we presented at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt in 2015. The current model is longer and will accommodate seven travelers in comfort. It will be powered by either a petrol engine or a new, eco-friendly diesel.

I would like to draw particular attention to the fact that our latest concept model draws abundantly on SsangYong's heritage and proudly takes inspiration from our classic Korando model from 1990.”

The SsangYong XAVL concept model – eXciting Authentic Vehicle Long – is based on a design philosophy known as “Robust, Specialty, Premium.” With its tough, masculine look, the XAVL is a concept of an authentic SUV, combining advanced comfort and practicality with user-friendly solutions. It is another strategic model intended to stimulate the brand's future growth.

Thanks to seven independent seats and ample spaciousness, the XAVL fulfills the versatile roles typical of mid-size SUVs, combining off-road capability with the versatility and practicality of a multi-purpose MPV. The seats are arranged in three rows in a 2-3-2 configuration. The five seats in the second and third rows can be folded, maximizing comfort and the usability of space, including flexibility in dividing it between passengers and luggage, which is what users expect from both SUVs and MPVs.

In contrast to the tough, masculine exterior, the car's interior is comfortable and full of sensitivity, a feeling enhanced by the broad, modern space along with sophisticated and subtle lighting. In addition, an intelligent interface system enables free communication between passengers, the car and the home.

The XAVL concept is a mid-size SUV. The car draws inspiration from the second generation of the classic Korando from 1990. A contemporary interpretation of that original car should go into production as an authentic off-road SUV in the near future.

The XAVL offers a choice of two engines: a 1.5-liter petrol engine meeting the Euro 6d-Temp standard and a 1.6-liter diesel engine, matched with a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions and a 2WD system.

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The 1.6-liter diesel engine primarily targets the European market. It achieves CO2 emissions of 120-150 g/km (2WD version, MT/AT, stop/start system). The 1.5-liter petrol engine is intended for markets that prefer efficient driving at low and medium speeds, as well as fuel economy. Its CO2 emissions are 150-170 g/km (2WD, MT/AT, stop/start system).

For SsangYong, safety is of paramount importance, and the XAVL can boast an external airbag offering additional protection to pedestrians, while for the car's occupants safety is further ensured by a central airbag placed between the driver and the passenger sitting next to them, as well as an airbag protecting the driver's knees.

For the comfort and safety of travelers, the XAVL has been equipped with a range of modern electronic safety systems, such as Advanced Emergency Braking System, Lane Change Assistant, Lane Keeping Assistant, High Beam Assistant, Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The car has also been equipped with an Intelligent Parking Assistant, a 10.25-inch high-quality LCD display and a wi-fi hotspot for passengers sitting in the rear rows. In addition, the car's navigation, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, as well as the multimedia system mounted in the headliner, can be controlled by smartphone, while Link to Home IOT technology (home connection within the internet) allows travelers to connect with their home (managing security cameras, security, home appliances and temperature regulation).

The XAVL is 4,630 mm long, 1,866 wide, 1,640 high, and its wheelbase is 2,775 mm.