- How much will be changed for the real car?
Quite substantial, we reckon. Although Ssangyong has made no bones about its pending baby crossover for the B-segment, the XIV concept car would be largely adulterated for the showroom car due likely next year.
The side-view mirrors, for one, are too space-age to be made, along with many other details. But the basic shape would remain.
- Will those cupboard-style doors be made?
At first sight, such doors sound too whacky. But let's not forget that Opel/Vauxhall use those so-called suicide doors on its Meriva midi-MPV in Europe. So it's just a matter of cost for the Koreans to consider.
It would be nice, though, to have them so that Ssangyong's yet-to-be-named crossover can stand out against some flashy competition like the Kia Soul, Mini Countryman, Nissan Juke and Skoda Yeti.
- That iPad inside looks cool!
Yup, it appears that such digital gadgets are making an impact in cars today. Accommodating such items will become essential in the future, following iPhone's compatibility in many of today's wheels.
But don't think for a moment that the cabin will be made in the same manner as the XIV. It will certainly be toned down to prevent buyers from getting a shock in showrooms.
iPads are making an impact in cars.
- What about the technical credentials?
The following announcement has been made: the new B-segment crossover will come with choices of 1.6-litre diesel or petrol engine, six-speed manual or automatic gearbox and two- or four-wheel-drive.
The logical combo for Thai showrooms is diesel/auto/2WD because it needs to stand out against its rivals by burning oil, most Thais have forgotten how to use a manual shiftstick and concrete roads are taking over the country.
- Just like its bigger Korando brother, right?
Right. The C-segment Korando is currently trying to attract SUV punters with its 2.0-litre diesel-turbo engine and 1.8 million baht price tag.
The Korando's smaller B-segment sibling should come in the 1.3-1.5 million price strata. Sure, this is CR-V territory, but imported baby crossovers are all about being chic and different, not logical.
The production model won’t look as flashy as this concept.
Credit: Bangkok Post (www.bangkokpost.com)
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