KGM Korando

The KGM Korando is a mid-size SUV produced by South Korea's KG Mobility (formerly known as SsangYong Motor). The Korando is the brand's longest-standing nameplate, with a heritage tracing back to the era of rugged off-roaders developed in collaboration with Jeep. Following the acquisition completed by parent company KG Group in 2022, SsangYong Motor was officially rebranded as KG Mobility (KGM). As of June 2026, the model has yet to be officially introduced into the Chinese mainland market.

Model Overview

Positioned as a practical, value-for-money mid-size SUV, the Korando's chief rivals include the Kia Sportage and Skoda Karoq. Serving as a core global strategic model for KGM, the Korando is marketed across various regions including Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. In Australia, the 2026 Korando is priced between AUD 30,000 and AUD 36,000 (approx. RM140,000 to RM170,000). The 5-seater SUV measures 4,410 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,715 mm in height, with a 2,650 mm wheelbase.

Design Language

The exterior styling of the Korando blends urban SUV sophistication with rugged off-road DNA. Up front, it showcases KGM’s signature design language, headlined by a prominent radiator grille and sharp LED headlamps. The side profile features sleek character lines and muscular contours, striking a balance between athletic presence and dynamism. At the rear, the styling is clean and minimalist, with horizontal tail lamps accentuating its visual width.

Inside, the Korando adopts the "Blaze Cockpit" design ethos, harmonising high-tech aesthetics with everyday practicality. The driver-oriented dashboard is trimmed in soft-touch plastics and leather upholstery, delivering a premium tactile feel. The cabin features multi-density foam ergonomic seats, with top-spec variants benefiting from leather upholstery detailed with blue contrast stitching. A 34-colour ambient lighting system is also fitted to enhance the cabin atmosphere.

Powertrain and Performance

The Korando is offered with both petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol variant is powered by a 1.5-litre GDI-Turbo turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 163 hp (120 kW) and 280 Nm of peak torque. The diesel version is equipped with a 1.6-litre turbocharged diesel engine producing 129–136 hp and 324–330 Nm of peak torque. Power is channelled through an AISIN 6-speed automatic transmission, with a 6-speed manual gearbox also available in selected markets. In terms of driveline, mainstream market iterations feature a front-wheel drive (2WD) configuration. The petrol model returns an official combined fuel economy of around 7.7 L/100 km. The diesel variant completes the 0–100 km/h sprint in 10.8 seconds, with a top speed of 117 mph (approx. 188 km/h). An all-electric Korando E-Motion is also offered in select global markets.

Chassis and Handling

Built on a monocoque chassis, the Korando rides on a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension setup. The chassis incorporates reinforced subframes to improve handling stability and torsional rigidity. A low centre-of-gravity design was implemented to mitigate the typical top-heavy characteristics of an SUV. Steering is handled by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system with speed-sensing variable assistance. Braking is provided by four-wheel disc brakes. Multiple drive modes are available, complete with tailored engine mapping adjustments. For towing capability, the Korando boasts a maximum braked towing capacity ranging from 1,500 kg to 2,000 kg.

Cabin and Equipment

The Korando's cabin is well-appointed with modern technology. The driver is greeted by a 10.25-inch full digital LCD instrument cluster, complemented by a 10-inch central touchscreen infotainment display. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. On the comfort front, dual-zone automatic climate control comes standard. Higher-spec grades add heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and a powered tailgate. Upholstery is available in fabric or leather, with the driver's seat featuring 8-way electric adjustment. Boot capacity is rated at 551 litres in standard configuration, expandable via 60:40 split-folding rear seats for enhanced luggage versatility.

Safety and Intelligent Driving

The Korando delivers an impressive safety credentials, holding a full 5-star Euro NCAP and 5-star ANCAP crash safety rating. The vehicle comes equipped with KGM's proprietary Deep Control intelligent safety suite, providing full-speed Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Active driver assistance features include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), High Beam Assist (HBA), Exit Assist Function (EAF), Front Vehicle Start Alert (FVSA), and Safety Distance Alert (SDA). The body structure is reinforced with 74% high-strength steel throughout the chassis. Passive protection is anchored by 7 airbags fitted as standard. In addition, the SUV is equipped with active dynamic safety aids including Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Hill Start Assist (HSA), and Active Rollover Protection (ARP).

Market Performance and Reviews

The Korando’s global market performance has shown mixed results. In Europe, the model has recorded strong momentum—in April 2026, KGM exported 1,096 units of the Korando, representing a 245.7% month-on-month surge and acting as the prime driver behind the brand’s export turnaround. For the full year of 2025, global sales of the Korando reached 10,686 units. In its domestic South Korean market, the Korando registered 1,717 sales in 2025, up 140.1% year-on-year. In Australia, however, the Korando was officially phased out in 2026 following a brand portfolio restructuring to make way for the newer Torres model.

In expert automotive media reviews, Parkers highlighted that while the Korando scores well in standard equipment and value for money, its dynamic driving experience still trails key segment rivals (such as the Skoda Kamiq or Karoq) in ride comfort and chassis refinement. As a cornerstone model in KGM's post-rebranding strategy, the Korando shoulders the mission of expanding the brand’s market share in the global mid-size SUV segment, with its European sales growth remaining particularly noteworthy.