Ssangyong Korando

The 2010 SsangYong Korando marked a major turning point for the South Korean automaker. Known for its rugged utility vehicles since the early 1980s, SsangYong reimagined the third-generation Korando as a thoroughly modern compact crossover SUV. Codenamed C200, the all-new Korando debuted with a fresh platform, a new design philosophy, and a new role: to lead the company’s updated lineup into the global market. Designed by Fabrizio Giugiaro at Italdesign, the 2010 Korando was a radical departure from its body-on-frame predecessors. With its sleek, contemporary styling, Giugiaro infused the vehicle with refined lines, bold stance, and a European sensibility that moved it firmly into the competitive compact crossover space. It was also the last SsangYong vehicle styled by Giugiaro before Italdesign joined the Volkswagen Group in 2011—making it a symbolic design farewell to a long-standing collaboration. Compared to segment rivals like the Hyundai ix35 and Kia Sportage, the Korando stood out with a slightly longer wheelbase, translating into improved interior space and comfort. It was built on an all-new monocoque chassis, a first for the Korando line, replacing the traditional ladder-frame structure and signaling a shift toward better ride comfort, handling, and refinement. Inside, the cabin emphasized practicality and space efficiency, earning praise for its clean layout and generous room for passengers and cargo. The vehicle was powered by a range of combustion engines, including newly developed diesel units designed for efficiency and reduced emissions—essential for international competitiveness. The name Korando, an abbreviation of “Korea Can Do,” was more than just a catchy phrase; it embodied SsangYong’s ambition to reinvent itself on the global stage. With the 2010 Korando, the brand not only modernized its image but also delivered a product that was stylish, capable, and globally relevant, all underpinned by Giugiaro’s masterful design touch.