Ssangyong Korando Family 4WD
The SsangYong Korando holds an important place in Korean automotive history as one of the first domestically produced SUVs. The name Korando is a contraction of 'Korea Can Do,' expressing the national determination that characterized South Korea's rapid industrialization. The first-generation Korando, produced from 1983, was based on the Jeep CJ-7 platform, which SsangYong acquired tooling rights to from American Motors Corporation.
The Jeep heritage was evident in the Korando's body-on-frame construction, four-wheel-drive system with transfer case, and rugged styling. However, SsangYong adapted the design with Korean-specific components and a Mercedes-Benz-derived diesel engine, the result of a technology partnership that would define SsangYong's products for decades. The 2,299 cc turbodiesel produced 101 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque, providing reasonable performance for a vehicle of this size and weight.
The Korando's drivetrain featured a five-speed manual gearbox and a part-time four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case. High and low range ratios were selected manually, providing genuine off-road capability for a vehicle at this price point. The independent front suspension used double wishbones with coil springs, while the rear used a conventional live axle, also on coil springs.
The Korando served multiple roles in Korean society. It was popular with outdoor enthusiasts, rural workers, and as a utility vehicle for small businesses. Its rugged construction and four-wheel-drive capability made it suited to Korea's mountainous terrain, where winter conditions could be severe. The Mercedes-derived diesel engine proved durable and economical, important qualities in a country that was still developing economically.
The 'Family' variant represented the more civilized version of the Korando, with additional sound insulation, improved interior trim, and passenger-oriented equipment. This variant appealed to buyers who wanted the capability of an SUV but also needed to transport their families in reasonable comfort.
The Korando nameplate has continued through multiple generations to the present day, evolving from a Jeep-based off-roader into a modern crossover SUV. The first-generation model, however, remains the most characterful and represents the beginning of Korea's significant role in the global SUV market.
SsangYong's use of Mercedes-Benz diesel technology in the Korando was a smart strategic decision that gave the Korean company a technological credibility it could not have achieved independently. This partnership continued for decades and was fundamental to SsangYong's identity as a manufacturer of diesel-powered SUVs.
Survivors are found primarily in South Korea. Body-on-frame construction is robust but check for chassis rust. The Mercedes-derived diesel is reliable but check for injection pump condition. Transfer case and front axle seals can leak. Body panels can be sourced through Korean suppliers. Four-wheel-drive system should be tested in all modes.
The first-generation Korando was produced from 1983 to 1996 at SsangYong's Pyeongtaek factory. The Jeep CJ-7 tooling was acquired from AMC.