SsangYong reveals revised Rexton W

SsangYong is giving its ageing Rexton a new lease of life with the launch of the new Rexton W. The facelift brings a new look as well as much needed improvements to the interior. The seven seater will go on sale in the UK by the end of 2013 and will be cheap with prices starting at just £21,995. Oh and apparently the W stands for 'worldwide.'

That gets you the entry-level SX version while the EX is priced at £24,495. The new front end gives the Rexton a much neater appearance than the ungainly model it replaces, although the basic shape remains unchanged. As before it uses a body on frame construction with double wishbone and coil spring suspension to the front plus a five link rigid axle with coil springs at the rear. Cutting edge it may not be, but the Rexton is designed as a proper off roader.

Power comes from SsangYong's own 2.0-litre diesel engine with 155PS and 360Nm of torque which peaks from just 1500rpm making it ideal for towing. It has a three tonne towing capability too which is ideal if you have a full-size caravan or a double horsebox. A six-speed manual gearbox comes as standard or there's a five-speed Mercedes-Benz T-Tronic automatic which costs an extra £1500.

The inside has been overhailed with new aluminium-effect and chrome finishes plus soft-touch materials while it retains the third row of seats which flip out of the boot floor. And as you'd expect from a brand like SsangYong, standard equipment levels are high with all models getting cruise control, air conditioning, electrically operated & heated door mirrors, a leather covered steering wheel and gear lever plus iPod and Bluetooth connectivity.

The EX model adds an electrically operated memory driver’s seat, leather upholstery, privacy glass, sunroof and rear parking sensors.

The Rexton also comes with SsangYong's 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.