Ssangyong targets ‘new segment’ with beefed-up Torres SUV
The South Korean brand says it is filling the gap between “semi-medium-sized” and “large” SUVs. Is it overthinking things?
Ssangyong has revealed its new SUV, the Torres, which it says will straddle the space between mid- and full-size SUVs. In effect, it is adding a model that will sit between the Korando and Rexton respectively.
Previously code-named J100, the new model will hit the Korean market in the summer ahead of a European launch before 2024, this time with an electric powertrain.
Artwork released in May reveals a beefed-up exterior and portray an SUV that is destined for muddy trails, hiking trips and hill climbs. Ssangyong says the Torres was named after a national park in Patagonia, well known for all of the above, and aims to create “a sense of adventure, challenge and escapism.”
Although there are only illustrations to go by, foldout lantern stands, roof-mounted spotlights and chunky off-road tyres certainly fit the bill. High ground clearance and gaping wheel arches only push the point home: the Torres will be far more than a Chelsea tractor.
Outdoor adventure has been a guiding light for several brands of late; Dacia says its Bigster SUV concept was designed for similar pursuits, for example, with initial images even placing it at the foot of a mountain and parked by a lake.
The overall design of the Torres is aggressive, but not overly so. There is a touch of Range Rover Evoque about the front end, with slightly-squinty headlights paired with a metal front grille and sunken fog lights above the splitter. Ssangyong says this creates a “tough and rugged appearance.” It is a handsome car that would not look out of place next to its North American competitors.
Elsewhere, a series of gentle creases run from front to rear, lining up perfectly with the rear T-shaped taillights. An offset handle implies that at least part of the boot lid may open sideways like a submarine hatch. There is every chance, however, the door handle has simply made way for the large ‘Torres’ logo mounted at the centre.
Ssangyong argues it is developing a new segment with the Torres, sitting between “semi-medium-sized” and “large” SUVs. It could be argued the distinction is not entirely necessary, but is perhaps illustrative of just how dominant the SUV sector has become.
Whether Ssangyong is indeed plugging a gap in the market or simply filling out its line-up of SUVs is up for debate, but one thing is clear: rightly or wrongly, the onslaught of big, bulky utility vehicles is set to continue.