SsangYong Rexton 4WD 2005 review

People are really interested in what the Rexton actually 'is'.

"What sort of vehicle is that mate?" often resonates when we park the Rexton and comments on the styling are favourable.

They reckon it looks a bit like a Prado at the rear but the handsome front owes nothing to anything.

Explore the 2005 Ssangyong Rexton range

• SsangYong Rexton 4WD 2005 review
• SsangYong Rexton 2005 review

The Rexton is a handy device off road especially with its gas dampers, double wishbone front and five link long travel suspension. Ssangyong has set the Rexton up with firm suspension for an off roader but it doesn't detract in the rough at all, in fact, due to the lack of roll and pitch, the Rexton is more comfortable than some other mushy makes.

And there is the added benefit of flatter cornering on the road.

The selectable 4WD system has low and high range 4WD activated by a button on the dash – it's that simple and in low, pretty well nothing stops the Rexton short of a rock wall.

We spent time meandering through sand hills, rolling along the beach and then ventured further inland for a picnic. This was child's play for the Rexton.

The vehicle is built on a ladder chassis and has a five speed automatic transmission that combine to make off road driving a breeze.

The road oriented Bridgestone tyres also stand up pretty well to challenging traction.

There's plenty of ground clearance and about the only thing to touch bottom were the optional side steps. But they have other benefits for everyday driving.

The torquey 2.7-litre, five cylinder turbo diesel gives impressive fuel, economy and performance and the vehicle is never lacking for get up and go out on the highway. It surprises plenty of other motorists just how much acceleration the Rexton has. And it will average around 10.0 litres/100km fuel economy – pretty good for a two tonne 4WD.

The test vehicle is the topliner and features leather upholstery, power everything. climate control, cruise, steering wheel audio controls – not much is left off the list.

We still have trouble accepting the automatic door locking system that activates after about the first 500 metres. It's a really American, paranoid thing to have in a car and can be annoying. The steering wheel leather is slippery.

But we really like the large load area, full size spare, folding rear seats and flip up tailgate glass.

The kids have no trouble getting in the back seat and there is plenty of room for five adults. An optional seven seat arrangement is available.

Also impressive is the build quality of the vehicle. Forget any preconceptions about "cheap" Korean here. Close the doors, "thunk" – hear the quality.