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The C200 is a modern, contemporary urban
passenger car with styling by Giugiaro’s ItalDesign in Italy. It is
similar in size to a Toyota RAV4, a Honda CRV and a Nissan Qashqai and
with a 2,640mm wheelbase, is slightly longer than a VW Tiguan. |
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The C200
concept, unveiled last week at the Paris Motor Show, is the first
indication of SsangYong’s future direction in broadening its range and
offering European customers greater choice. It follows the South Korean
manufacturer’s announcement earlier this year that it plans to introduce
20 new models on five different platforms, between 2009 and 2014.
The SsangYong C200 is quite unlike anything seen from SsangYong before.
The C200 is a modern, contemporary urban passenger car with styling by
Giugiaro’s ItalDesign in Italy. It is similar in size to a Toyota RAV4, a
Honda CRV and a Nissan Qashqai and with a 2,640mm wheelbase, is slightly
longer than a VW Tiguan.
The C200 is also a departure from current SsangYong models in that it uses
monocoque construction to ensure a passenger car look, feel and comfort.
The platform is adaptable, so while the C200 uses four-wheel drive, the
chassis can also be used for a front-wheel drive passenger car.
The drivetrain is completely new. An advanced 2.0 litre diesel engine has
been designed for lower noise levels and reduced vibration, and is mated
to a six speed manual transmission. The engine produces 175 hp and
complies with Euro V exhaust emissions requirements as well as producing
lower CO2 levels.
Extensive use of aluminium suspension components reduces weight and
together with a low centre of gravity, ensures a comfortable and compliant
ride with the kind of sharp and agile handling demanded by European
drivers.
Paul Williams, managing director of SsangYong distributors Koelliker UK
said: “This is much more than just a concept car. It marks a sea change
for SsangYong with a move to monocoque construction, new engines and
transmissions and adaptable platforms. It is also a strong signal of
future intent that will see a wider and more contemporary line-up that
will be able to compete aggressively in Europe. SsangYong has said that it
plans to develop the vehicle into a strategic global model.”
The C200 model tag represents the trend towards more compact and
convenient city cars with a younger, urban relevance. It is designed to be
very comfortable with the best possible use of space, while retaining a
design elegance and sophistication that sets it apart from current
offerings.
The C200 is the first tangible result of co-operation with Shanghai
Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), which merged with SsangYong four
years ago. The relationship is likely to see the release of a steady
stream of new products, with the intention of becoming one of the global
leaders in product development, production, sales, and service.
C200 specification
Overall length 4400mm
Overall width 1810mm
Height 1685mm
Wheelbase 2640mm
Engine 2.0 diesel, 1999cc
Max. power (hp) 175
Max. torque (Nm) 370
Drive system 4wd
Transmission 6 speed manual
Wheels & tyres 255/60/R18
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