Ssangyong reveals new seven-seat SUV concept

Ssangyong looks set to offer a full-sized seven-seat SUV to tangle with the likes of Hyundai's Santa Fe and the Toyota Kluger.

The South Korean marquee unveiled a new concept at the Geneva motor show this week.

Dubbed XAVL, or "eXciting Authentic Vehicle Long",  Ssangyong says the machine is a "tough, masculine looking and authentic SUV" with a "tough, masculine exterior" likely to inspire the styling of future production models.

Likely to offer a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions driving the front wheels, a production version of the model would be powered by a choice of 1.5-litre petrol or 1.6-litre diesel engines. 

Ssangyong says the car serves as a showcase for future technology likely to be offered by the brand, with features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assistance and blind spot warning systems joining external pedestrian-protection airbag similar to that used by Volvo and Land Rover.

On the inside, passengers benefit from a 10.2-inch digital display, a wi-fi hot spot system an power to keep gadgets on the go. Other features include a full digital driver's display, ambient lighting, a digital link between the car and home, and roof mounted video screen.

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