KGM Rexton

The KGM Rexton is a mid-to-large luxury rugged SUV from South Korea's KG Mobility (formerly SsangYong Motor). As one of the brand's longest-running nameplates, the first-generation model debuted in 2001. Following the acquisition by parent company KG Group in 2022, SsangYong Motor was officially rebranded as KG Mobility (KGM). As of June 2026, the model has not yet been officially introduced to the Mainland Chinese market on a large scale.

Model Overview

Positioned as a mid-to-large luxury rugged SUV, the Rexton highlights a practical seven-seater layout, formidable off-road prowess, and a robust 3.5-tonne towing capacity. Key segment rivals include the Ford Everest, Toyota Prado, and Mitsubishi MU-X. Dimensions measure 4,850 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, and 1,825 mm in height, with a 2,865 mm wheelbase. The fourth-generation Rexton (internal code G4 Rexton) made its debut at the 2017 Seoul Motor Show in South Korea. In Australia, the 2026 model starts from AUD 52,000 (approx. RM245,000), while the range-topping Sport Pack variant is priced at AUD 64,200 (approx. RM303,000).

Design Language

The Rexton's exterior styling preserves the brand's rugged off-road DNA from the SsangYong era, boasting an upright, commanding silhouette. The fourth-generation iteration adopts the "Dignified Motion" design philosophy. Up front, it sports an imposing hexagonal radiator grille accented with horizontal chrome slats, with the top chrome trim seamlessly merging into the headlamps on either side. The 2026 model receives redesigned C-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and sequential turn signals. The rear styling remains clean and purposeful, featuring vertical tail lamp clusters that complement its tough, muscular stance.

Inside, the Rexton's cabin adopts a T-shaped dashboard layout, striking a balance between premium luxury and everyday utility. It is fitted with a dual-screen setup comprising a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display. Higher-spec trims offer premium Nappa leather upholstery, complete with quilted door cards and dashboard trim. The flagship Sport Pack variant further gains black leather and suede combination seats, suede door and dash inserts, and a gloss black steering wheel garnish. The SUV is offered in both 5-seater and 7-seater configurations.

Powertrain and Performance

The Rexton range is powered by a 2.2-litre e-XDi220 inline-four turbodiesel engine across the board. It puts out 148–149 kW (approx. 202–203 PS) and a peak torque of 441 Nm, with maximum torque on tap across a broad band of 1,600–2,600 rpm. Power is sent through an 8-speed automatic transmission equipped with steering wheel paddle shifters. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 8.7 L/100 km, matched with a 70-litre fuel tank. The 0–100 km/h sprint is completed in 11.5 seconds, with a top speed of around 180 km/h. It meets Euro 6 emissions standards. Selected markets also offer a 2.0T turbocharged petrol engine option.

Chassis and Handling

The Rexton is built on a body-on-frame (ladder-frame) chassis, forming the core foundation for its heavy-duty off-road credentials. The suspension setup features double wishbones at the front and a 10-link independent suspension at the rear. The 2026 model sees an upgrade to Electric Power Steering (EPS) across all variants. Drivetrain-wise, it employs a part-time four-wheel-drive (4WD) system offering 4H (High range) and 4L (Low range) modes. An automatic locking rear differential comes standard across the range. The vehicle boasts a 3.5-tonne braked towing rating. Off-road assistance includes Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA).

Cabin and Features

The Rexton cockpit comes equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen display. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Cabin comforts include dual-zone automatic climate control and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt and telescopic adjustment. The mid-spec Advance variant adds a powered tailgate, 8-way power front seats with driver lumbar support, heated front and outer second-row seats, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, rear door sunshades, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The range-topping Ultimate variant further adds a panoramic sunroof, premium leather upholstery, quilted door and dashboard inserts, a 3D 360-degree surround-view monitor, independent third-row climate controls, wireless smartphone charging, and ambient lighting. Boot capacity stands at 236 litres behind the third row, expanding up to 1,806 litres with the second and third rows folded flat.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The Rexton delivers mainstream standards in active safety and driver assistance. The 2026 model comes standard across the range with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA). Other standard safety features include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Change Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Safe Distance Warning, High Beam Assist, Trailer Sway Control, and Driver Attention Alert. The flagship Ultimate variant adds a 3D 360-degree surround-view camera. Passive safety is well-catered for with 9 airbags fitted as standard. As of June 2026, the model has not been crash-tested by ANCAP. For peace of mind, KGM backs the vehicle with a 7-year/unlimited-kilometre factory warranty and 5 years of roadside assistance.

Market Performance and Reception

As KGM's flagship SUV, the Rexton maintains a steady performance across key global markets. In Australia, the 2026 model enhances its market competitiveness with the addition of EPS, ACC, and Lane Keeping Assist. In its home market of South Korea, the Rexton continues to serve as the brand's premium stalwart. In 2024, KGM exported 1,060 Rexton KD (knocked-down) kits to Indonesia, with plans to ramp up volume to 3,000 units in 2025.

In China, the Rexton was first introduced in 2002 under the "SsangYong Rexton" nameplate. In 2024, KGM announced its official return to the Chinese market via the CBU import route, with the Rexton priced between RM278,800 and RM368,800. Additionally, KGM has partnered with Chery Automobile to co-develop an all-new mid-to-large SUV codenamed "SE-10", designed to carry forward the Rexton's legacy and market positioning.

With a lineage spanning over two decades, the Rexton retains a distinctive and differentiated presence in the competitive mid-to-large SUV arena, largely thanks to rugged hardware including its ladder-frame chassis, part-time 4WD system, rear locking differential, and 3.5-tonne towing capability.