Rodius returns with a new look - and a new name

The SsangYong Rodius is back - only now it's had a makeover. Often ridiculed as the ugliest car around, SsangYong has completely overhauled it with an all-new body and a new name - the Turismo. It's still big though at more than five metres long with a three metre wheelbase, making it one the largest people carriers on the market.

It can carry seven adults along with 875 litres worth of luggage while if you only have two on board you can expand the cargo area to a huge 3146 litres. The Rodius may not have been a looker but it was used by a fair few private hire firms and the better looking Turismo will no doubt have just as much appeal to those wanting a good value and big MPV.

In terms of competition there's very little than can rival it for size aside from van-based models like the Hyundai i800 but even that can't compete with the low price of the Turismo. It starts at just £17,995 and even the top EX model with an automatic gearbox and selectable four-wheel drive is only £23,995.

Standard equipment includes air conditioning, electric heated door mirrors, leather steering wheel and gear lever, Bluetooth plus a USB and aux-in port.  The ES model adds leather upholstery, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats and rear parking sensors while the top EX has a heated lower windscreen to prevent the wipers from freezing, solar controlled glass and rain sensitive wipers.

There's only one engine - a 2.0-litre diesel which is used across SsangYong's range. It's not the quietest of engines but pulls strongly and works well with the automatic gearbox, just don't expect too much in the way of outright refinement. Maximum power is 155PS and there's 360Nm of torque available from just 1500rpm, so you'll rarely have to work it hard. The standard gearbox is a six-speed manual or there's a five-speed Mercedes-Benz T-Tronic automatic.

Intriguingly the top EX model comes with selectable 4x4 with a low ratio, which could come in very handy in the winter. It's also useful if you tow a caravan or trailer regularly. All Turismo models come with a rear multi-link suspension set-up designed for ride quality and good stability.

Like all SsangYong models, the new Turismo comes with a five year unlimited mileage warranty. All the major mechanical components are covered including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock absorbers and even the audio system.  Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles, and the battery and paintwork for three years.

Turismo prices