The fourth-gen Ssangyong Korando made its presence felt at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. Although it did not receive enough attention, there is no denying that this is an important product in the European market. The 2019 Korando is largely based on the SIV-2 design that was showcased at the same show three years back. What's the most exciting thing about the launch, you ask? That it will be available as a fully electric vehicle by the end of 2019.

Two Engine Options To Choose From

The Ssangyong Korando is a lot more sportier than the outgoing model. It is longer, wider, and sits closer to the ground. The new Korando also has a larger wheelbase, thus creating extra legroom inside the cabin. Both these engines will be available with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The biggest news, however, is that an all-electric model is also in works. It will be launched by the end of the year.

It Looks Better Than Its Predecessor, But Leaves A Lot To Be Desired

The new SsangYong Korando has gotten better in the looks department, but it is not a handsome SUV, per se. Upfront, it comes with slightly swept-back headlights and a chrome strip that runs through the slim grille. The bumper houses a three-piece, vertically-stacked fog lamp set with parking sensors underneath it. The window sill raises slightly in the back and is finished in chrome and piano black. The rear is a busy place, though. Ssangyong could have done better with the shape as well, as it looks to have ended abruptly. The chrome strip on the boot is similar to the one on the front fascia and the three-lamp light setup has an inward arrow pattern. An unconventional setup that did not come out well is the dual rectangular exhaust tip placed in the middle of the rear bumper instead of the corners.

Interior Looks Fresh And A Lot More Premium

The Ssangyong Korando is a practical SUV, so expect a lot 'function over form' bits. On the onset, it looks very cluttered. The waterfall center console houses the HVAC vents, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation, HVAC controls, the gear lever, a drive mode selector, followed by cupholders. Since the dash is quite 'in the face', the legroom seems alright, but the kneeroom is sparse. The rear bench is almost flat and can easily seat three occupants. Not to mention, the Korando comes with premium upholstery, which is considered a selling point in the segment it competes in. In terms of safety, the kit includes:

-* Seven Airbags

-* Advanced Emergency Braking System

-* Lane Keep Assist

-* High Beam Assist

-* Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control

-* Blind Spot Detection

-* Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Guess We Know The Electric Powertain Specs

Ssangyong revealed the e-SIV concept at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. It produced 189 horses and was powered by a 61.5 kWh battery pack. The concept came with an all-electric range of 280 miles on a single charge. Since the company has this powertrain in its arsenal, we expect it to feature in the upcoming electric Korando. What are your thoughts on this fourth generation Mahindra-owned Ssangyong Korando? Share them with us in the comments section below.

2019 Ssangyong Korando specifications

Further reading

Read our full review on the 2019 Ssangyong Korando.

Read our full review on the 2018 SSangyong e-SIV Concept.