SsangYong has revealed the electric version of its Torres SUV, and plans to show off plenty more new models later this month.
Previously codenamed U100, the new Torres EVX will slot in above the Korando e-Motion in SsangYong’s line-up.
The company has released images of the new EV’s exterior and interior ahead of an in-person reveal at the 2023 Seoul Mobility Show, which runs from March 30 to April 9.
The exterior features a thoroughly revised front-end, with a completely different grille, bumper and lighting.
For example, instead of the petrol-powered Torres’ LED daytime running lights, which draw from the fender, dip down below the headlight and angle back up next to the vertical-slat grille, there are horizontal DRLs that give the appearance of running behind the grille slats.
More aerodynamic, machine-finish wheels with a floral pattern have also been employed, though we don’t yet know what changes have been made to the rear.
Given spied prototypes have featured camouflage on their rear ends, we can expect some changes. SsangYong does make note of tail lights incorporating symbols for sea, fire and earth, though just what that will look like in a lighting assembly is unclear.
SsangYong has overhauled the interior too, installing a curved glass assembly incorporating the digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system. The petrol model features a free-standing touchscreen and an inset cluster.
The company has yet to release powertrain specifications, though given the petrol Torres hews closely to the Korando, we could see the Korando E-Motion’s heart transplanted into the EVX.
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SsangYong KR10 leak
In e-Motion guise, the Korando uses a 61.5kWh battery and a front-mounted electric motor with 140kW of power. Claimed WLTP range is 339km.
SsangYong says it will reveal a total of 16 vehicles and EV platforms, including the Torres EVX, at the show. Some will be concepts, and others production vehicles.
It specifically mentions concepts called the KR10, O100 and F100. Photos have previously been leaked of the KR10 concept, first teased in sketch form, which is a rugged-looking SUV.
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Petrol-powered Torres
SsangYong Australia has previously said “all models and concepts from the factory are under consideration for the Australian market”.
The petrol-powered Torres’ local launch has been affected by strong demand for the model in its home market, a good sign for a brand that’s trying to establish a solid footing after a tumultuous few years.
SsangYong now has a new owner, KG Group, and plans are afoot to rename the brand KG Mobility given the “painful image” of the existing name.
At 4700mm long and 1890mm wide, the Torres is about the same size as the Mitsubishi Outlander.
Until the EV arrives, the only powertrain on offer is a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 125kW of power and 280Nm of torque, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front- and all-wheel drive configurations are available.
Petrol models feature a digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a separate 8.0-inch display for the climate controls.
Available safety equipment includes autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot assist, lane-keep assist, leading vehicle departure alert, and front, front-side, curtain and knee airbags
There’s also available adaptive cruise control with stop/go, tyre pressure monitoring, and automatic high-beam.
