SsangYong unveils LIV-2 concept at Paris Motor Show

Mahindra Group-owned Ssangyong’s LIV-2 concept car, which previews next year’s new production Rexton, has gone on show at the Paris Motor Show.

As the last of several evolved concepts over recent years, the LIV-2 is all but production ready, and with a Rexton badge will take on Hyundai’s Santa Fe in 2017. The name stands for Limitless Interface Vehicle, and it introduces a new design language for SsangYong’s future mid-size and large SUVs.

SsangYong says that the LIV-2 – and therefore the Rexton – will be its flagship car for the future, with a focus on premium comfort that it hopes will help the Korean firm expand into new market areas.

Finished in matt and gloss white, the LIV-2 has a grille designed to resemble the spread wings of a bird – a feature first seen on the Tivoli and one that will become a regular sight on future SsangYongs, as will the sculpted details on the sides.

Other features include electric side steps and tech that creates an illuminated path for occupants approaching or leaving the car.

The interior has been designed to emulate both a luxury limousine and an executive lounge, with particular focus on the rear-seat passengers. Each get a reclining individual chair, complete with massage function. The interior is finished in leather with patterned and piano black accents, while mood lighting has been installed to highlight the centre console and door panels.

Technology includes a 9.2-inch monitor in the dashboard, and 10.1-inch displays in the back of the front seat headrests. Connectivity comes through wifi, Apple Play and Google Android Auto, all of which can be controlled from the rear centre console through a touchscreen.

Power in the LIV-2 derives from choice of petrol or diesel engines. The 2.0-litre GDi turbocharged petrol engine boasts 222bhp and 258lb ft, mated to either a six-speed automatic gearbox or a six-speed manual. The 2.2-litre turbodiesel developed 179bhp and 310lb ft through a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic.

Safety equipment includes nine airbags and an advanced emergency braking system that uses cameras, radar and laser to scan ahead for obstacles. The LIV-2 also features a blind spot monitoring system and headlights with a high beam assist system, as well as lane departure warning and cross traffic alert, which warns against approaching traffic when reversing out of a parking space.

As well as the LIV-2, SsangYong also used the Paris show to unveil updates to its Tivoli and the XLV SUVs for 2017. Both will get new safety features including an autonomous emergency braking system as standard, and an options list that includes lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, high beam assistance and traffic signal recognition systems.

The steering wheel on the Tivoli is now fully adjustable for rake and reach, and ventilation has been improved for front seat passengers while the rear seats recline. Load carrying ability has been increased thanks to a revised boot floor that can be used in two different positions. The XLV now has the option of rear heated seats.

Phill Tromans