The South Korean automaker SsangYong owned by Mahindra and Mahindra group is all set to launch its Rodius Multi-purpose vehicle in Indian auto market. Currently SsangSyong only possesses Rexton in its product portfolio, which is also quite a success in its segment. The Rodius MPV was first revealed in 2013 Geneva Motor Show by SsangYong with few different variants. The vehicle is quite spacious and with the right use of the available space the vehicle can come in any configuration ranging from 7, 9 and even 11 seater version.
Earlier it was expected that SsangYong Korando will be the next product in the company’s Indian line-up. But for now it is confirmed that Rodius will be the next vehicle in India instead of Korando. The MPV houses a new four cylinder 2 litre turbo diesel engine. The engine is boosted with the variable geometry turbocharger and is capable of producing maximum power of 156 bhp and peak torque of 360 Nm. The new vehicle will be available in six speed manual and five speed auto transmission. While the model will also feature rear wheel drive as an option, the top end variant will be coming with All wheel drive system.
SsangYong Rodius comes with the independent suspension in the front and multi-link independent suspension at the rear. The model comes in a 3 meter wheelbase that clears the way for its 11 seater arrangement. The vehicle will come equipped with all safety features including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and also it comes with rollover protection. The other features also include airbags, cruise control, ventilated seats, parking sensors and infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity. All these features make this MPV and overall attractive product. It is expected that the model will be launched at the end of the year with a price somewhere around Rs. 20 Lakh.
Mahindra and Mahindra recently invested about 80 Billion Korean Won in the South Korean auto maker for the new shares. The company propelled by the investment is now exploring the possibilities in different product segment with smaller engines. It is also looking in the small crossover segment. This diverse product portfolio will help company to gain strong foothold in Indian auto Industry.