SsangYong Rexton 2.2 Ultimate (2023) Review

IN the space of a couple minutes I see genuine fear etched on the faces of two car drivers as they approach down a narrow country lane.

It is clear from their expressions this is a fight they are destined to lose and sure enough they stop and reverse into a makeshift passing place.

A cheery wave and an appreciative smile tells them I welcome their efforts and perhaps, subliminally, says that this gargantuan SsangYong is a bit of a gentle giant.

They can of course be forgiven for thinking the opposite. The face that stares down on their tiny cars is bold and full of aggression. A huge cheese grater grille is flanked by two sets of four LED lights which collude to give the Rexton massive road presence. I think it looks great and it’s why this SUV remains one of my favourite big off-roaders.

From the side Rexton looks strong and muscly with pronounce haunches leading back to a solid and purposeful rear end. It’s a very attractive and resolute looking vehicle.

And it’s not just for show, Rexton’s power and performance is more than a match for its aesthetics. More than 200PS is available from the 2.2 litre diesel which gives it sprightly performance and supreme towing ability.

On the road it is sharper than you would imagine such a large vehicle could possibly be and it will run in rear wheel drive and all-wheel-drive at speed. When conditions dictate you can drop it down into a lower ratio box giving Rexton proper off-road ability.

It feels immensely strong and well built. There is no flex in the body over the bumps and no squeaking or rattling from the high quality trim. Overall Rexton just feels incredibly well built and long lasting – which is probably why it comes with a five year warranty.

It bowls along the straights with the heartbeat of a marathon runner at rest. But it will fly up hills when required and handles well for such a big lump. Economy isn’t bad either and I see 35mpg on the trip computer while driving with care.

SsangYong has been making 4x4s for the past 65 years and really knows its stuff. I actually prefer it to many very expensive and equally sizeable SUVs as it is just as capable, a third of the price and somehow more relaxing to drive.

With life becoming tough all-round, whether that’s the cost of living crisis, people’s increased aggression and more episodes of harsh weather, the Rexton provides the perfect sanctuary at an amazing price.

For around 40K you get everything you could possible want in a vehicle all wrapped up in a package that is completely flawless.

The cabin is also a delight with every luxury imaginable. The interior is made from high quality tactile materials. The ergonomics are perfect for me. It is incredibly well specified, amazingly spacious with room for seven seats in three rows and the controls and displays are well-thought through.

All my must-have functions are there as well. So the steering wheel is heated, as are the electrically operated seats (which are also cooled for the summer). The Bluetooth to my phone is easy to set up and plays my tunes clearly through the excellent hi-fi. The tailgate is powered and can be operated from the keyfob so there’s no need to get your hands dirty.

The previous Rexton was great and the new one is even better. It won’t just be putting the wind up other road users with its massive road presence but is likely to be scaring the opposition too.