The SsangYong Rexton I RX 270 Xdi, produced from 2003 to 2006, represents the initial foray of the South Korean automaker into the mid-size SUV segment. Built upon a body-on-frame construction, the Rexton aimed to offer a robust and capable vehicle, particularly appealing to those seeking towing capacity and all-weather capability. The RX 270 Xdi variant, equipped with a 2.7-liter diesel engine producing 163 horsepower and an automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground within the Rexton lineup, balancing affordability with a degree of refinement. It was positioned as a practical choice for families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle for both on-road and light off-road duties.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SsangYong |
| Model | Rexton |
| Generation | Rexton I |
| Type (Engine) | RX 270 Xdi (163 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 228 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 177 km/h (109.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 345 Nm @ 1800-3250 rpm (254.46 lb.-ft. @ 1800-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | D27DT |
| Engine displacement | 2696 cm3 (164.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.2 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.4 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1972 kg (4347.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2805 kg (6183.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 833 kg (1836.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 935 l (33.02 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1524 l (53.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 4785 mm (188.39 in.) |
| Width | 1870 mm (73.62 in.) |
| Height | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm (111.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/70 R16; 255/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 16; 8J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The RX 270 Xdi is powered by SsangYong’s D27DT 2.7-liter inline five-cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler, boosting power output to 163 horsepower and 345 Nm (254.46 lb.-ft.) of torque. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing usable power across a wide rpm range, peaking between 1800 and 3250 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The automatic transmission is a conventional five-speed unit, chosen for its ease of use and suitability for everyday driving. While not known for its lightning-fast shifts, it provided smooth and predictable gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The Rexton RX 270 Xdi with the automatic transmission offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.5 seconds, and top speed was limited to 177 km/h (109.98 mph). The automatic transmission, while convenient, did slightly diminish the engine’s performance compared to the available manual gearbox. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising rather than outright acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable vehicle for inclement weather or light off-road use. However, the body-on-frame construction resulted in noticeable body roll during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RX 270 Xdi typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an AM/FM radio. Higher trim levels offered options like leather upholstery, sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Safety features included ABS brakes and, depending on the year and market, airbags. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The Rexton offered seating for five or seven passengers, depending on whether a third-row bench seat was specified.
Chassis & Braking
The Rexton I utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The front suspension consisted of coil springs and a double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employed a rigid axle with coil springs. This configuration prioritized ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS system helped to maintain steering control during hard braking.
Market Reception & Comparison
The SsangYong Rexton RX 270 Xdi received mixed reviews. Critics praised its spacious interior, strong towing capacity, and all-wheel-drive capability. However, the engine was often criticized for being noisy and lacking refinement compared to some of its competitors. The automatic transmission was also seen as somewhat sluggish. Compared to other diesel SUVs of the time, such as the Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento, the Rexton offered a more rugged and utilitarian experience. Fuel economy was reasonable for its class, averaging around 27.4 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The SsangYong Rexton I, including the RX 270 Xdi variant, laid the foundation for SsangYong’s presence in the mid-size SUV market. While not a sales success in many regions, it established the brand as a manufacturer of capable and durable vehicles. The D27DT engine proved to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial for longevity. Today, the Rexton I can be found on the used car market as an affordable and practical SUV, particularly appealing to those seeking a vehicle with towing capacity and all-wheel drive. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s age and potential maintenance needs.
