KGM Korando
It’s fair to say KGM as a brand has come on leaps and bounds in recent years. Previously known as SsangYong, renaming to the far catchier KGM has also brought about a raft of new models and upgrades to existing vehicles the South Korean manufacturer offered in the UK.
The Korando we have here falls under the latter category. Originally based on the Jeep CJ-7, the Korando is by far the marque’s longest running model. even if it’s nigh-on impossible to spot its Jeep roots if you look at this; the fourth generation. It’s had a facelift recently so it’s a bit more severe looking and there’s some flashes of red which KGM’s quite keen on. Inside’s seen some updates in terms of tech and layout, too.
Is it a 4×4?
This version was originally launched back in 2019 so it’s been around a fair while, but it’s seen quite the revisions during its life. Even as the ‘lifestyle‘ family SUV we see here, this version was available with 4WD and a diesel engine. As with many models on sale today, the diesel option’s been deleted but so has the 4WD drivetrain which probably makes sense as the Korando doesn’t really scream ‘off-road‘ anyway.
So, the Korando is now front-wheel-drive only and it’s powered solely by petrol. In fact, if you log onto KGM’s website and find the Korando’s configurator, the only choices you make before you choose accessories etc are whether you’d like a manual or automatic gearbox and what colour you’d like; white, silver or black.
What engines are available?
The petrol engine under the bonnet is a 1.5 litre, 4-cylinder GDi-turbo linked to either an Aisin 6-speed automatic ‘box or a 6-speed manual. Both produce 162bhp & 280 Nm torque and both apparently get from 0-62mph in 10.84s, although the manual tops out at 118mph where the auto’s run out of steam at 117mph.
Our test car’s fitted with the 6-speed auto and it’s not exactly the first word in transmissions. It can hesitate on upshifts and hang onto gears for too log, exposing the slightly harsh nature of the engine at high revs. We say unless you really need it, save your money and go for the manual.
Whichever transmission choice you go for, the engine isn’t the most refined you’ll drive and neither is it the cleanest. The manual returns 36.66mpg combined & emits 176g/km CO2 with the auto managing 34.87mpg & 184g/km CO2; neither of which are going to appeal to the company car buyer.
What kit does the Korando come with?
If you’re a private buyer, the OTR price of the Korando will be a large part of its appeal. The manual will cost you just £26,995 and the automatic gearbox is an extra £1k at £27,995. Considering every Korando, regardless of transmission comes with auto lights, auto wipers, front & rear parking sensors, heated & cooled front seats, leather, rear camera and a heated steering wheel, that’s a lot of gear for the money. The only odd thing is the lack of automatic climate control; it’s manual air-con only and auto isn’t even a cost option.
So, the Korando’s stuffed full of what would usually be optional extras and that lack of climate control at least means there’s some very welcome dials to control the temperature; not everything is contained within the touchscreen. The central infotainment is a 9″ screen, the driver’s display is 10.25″ and, as much as KGM’s software isn’t the slickest, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard so it probably doesn’t matter anyway.
In terms of driver and passenger comfort, the Korando doesn’t fare too badly. Both wind and tyre noise are competitive and the suspension does a good job of soaking up imperfections without completely wilting through the bends. Over more ravine-like potholes there’s some banging and crashing but that’s about it.
Should I buy a KGM Korando?
Decent sized new cars under £30k are becoming an increasingly rare commodity, especially ones which come with as much standard kit as the Korando. Combine that kit with its fresh new looks and ease to live with and it’s definitely worth a look, just don’t expect the most modern powertrains.
By Ben Harrington
2025 KGM Korando Automatic Specifications:
Engine – 1.5l GDi petrol, Transmission – 6-speed auto, Layout – Front engine, FWD, Power – 162bhp,Torque – 280Nm, Emissions – 184g/km CO2, Economy – 34.87mpg, Maximum Speed – 117mph, Acceleration – 10.84s – 0-62mph, Price – £27,996 OTR
The 2025 KGM Korando is available now, priced from £26,995. For full details go to:www.kgm-motors.co.uk
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