The SsangYong Rexton II 2.0 e-XGDi Automatic, produced from 2018 to March 2021, represents a significant step forward for the South Korean automaker in the mid-size SUV segment. Positioned as a more premium offering within the Rexton II range, this variant featured a turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It aimed to provide a balance of performance, refinement, and practicality for buyers seeking a capable and well-equipped SUV. The Rexton II, internally designated as the Y400, was a crucial model for SsangYong, intended to revitalize the brand’s image and compete with established rivals like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento, particularly in export markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SsangYong |
| Model | Rexton |
| Generation | Rexton II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 e-XGDi (224 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | March, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8-13.9 l/100 km (17 – 16.9 US mpg, 20.5 – 20.3 UK mpg, 7.2 – 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2-8.4 l/100 km (28.7 – 28 US mpg, 34.4 – 33.6 UK mpg, 12.2 – 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.3-10.4 l/100 km (22.8 – 22.6 US mpg, 27.4 – 27.2 UK mpg, 9.7 – 9.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 239-242 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 176.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 224 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 112.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | G20GDi |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1985-2123 kg (4376.18 – 4680.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2830 kg (6239.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 707-845 kg (1558.67 – 1862.91 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4850 mm (190.94 in.) |
| Width | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Height | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2865 mm (112.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Front overhang | 895 mm (35.24 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1090 mm (42.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 203 mm (7.99 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Rexton II 2.0 e-XGDi is the G20GDi engine, a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The engine produces 224 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to good drivability in various conditions. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from AISIN, was chosen for its smooth shifting characteristics and reliability. It’s a conventional torque converter automatic, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 e-XGDi Automatic Rexton II offers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not a sports SUV, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth gear changes and responsive acceleration. Compared to the diesel-powered Rexton models, the gasoline engine is noticeably quieter and more refined, but it lacks the low-end torque of the diesel. The six-speed automatic, while smooth, can sometimes feel a bit hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a balanced feel, although it doesn’t offer the all-weather capability of the available all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 e-XGDi Automatic trim typically came well-equipped, positioning it as a mid-to-upper range offering. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Higher trim levels added features such as a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior materials were generally of good quality, offering a comfortable and refined cabin environment.
Chassis & Braking
The Rexton II utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The suspension consists of double wishbones at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, tuned for a balance of ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and easy steering feel. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a relatively simple and reliable drivetrain.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Rexton II 2.0 e-XGDi Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and generous equipment levels. However, the fuel economy was a common criticism, being significantly lower than that of comparable diesel-powered SUVs. Compared to the diesel variants, the gasoline engine offered a more refined driving experience but lacked the fuel efficiency and low-end torque that many buyers in the segment prioritized. The Rexton II generally offered a good value proposition, undercutting many of its rivals in terms of price while offering a comparable level of features.
Legacy
The SsangYong Rexton II 2.0 e-XGDi Automatic, while not a massive sales success, played a role in SsangYong’s efforts to modernize its lineup and improve its brand image. The G20GDi engine proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although regular maintenance is crucial. On the used car market, these Rextons represent a relatively affordable option for buyers seeking a spacious and well-equipped SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the higher fuel consumption compared to diesel alternatives and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The Rexton II laid the groundwork for the subsequent Rexton models, which continue to offer a compelling blend of value, practicality, and capability.
