SsangYong C200 Compact SUV Debuts in Paris

Unless you have some twisted automotive fetish for vehicles like the Rodius and Actyon, the C200 Concept study that made its world premiere at the Paris Salon is by far the best looking product in SsangYong’s current line-up. Even though we do detect a hint… of Kia Forte (see here) in the C200’s fascia, overall not a bad attempt from the Chinese owned Korean automaker. The production version of the C200 which should arrive in the market in late 2009 will be virtually unchanged from the concept. -Continued

Notably, the C200 is the first SsangYong to feature a monocoque construction as existing SsangYong models sold in Europe feature separate body/chassis construction. Although this platform can also be used with a front-wheel drivetrain, the C200 employs SsangYong’s full-time four-wheel-drive system. Power is provided by a new 175HP 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine that’s mated to a latest generation 6-speed manual gearbox.