The SsangYong XLV 1.6, produced from 2016 to 2021, represents a key iteration of SsangYong’s entry into the compact crossover SUV market. Positioned as a more practical and spacious alternative to traditional hatchback offerings, the XLV (Expanding Leisure Vehicle) aimed to provide family-friendly utility with a focus on value. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.6-liter diesel engine producing 115 horsepower, served as a core model within the XLV lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and acceptable performance for everyday driving. It was primarily marketed towards European consumers seeking a versatile and affordable vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SsangYong |
| Model | XLV |
| Generation | XLV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 year |
| End of production | 2021 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 121 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 81.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3400-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D16DTF |
| Engine displacement | 1597 cm3 (97.45 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1405 kg (3097.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 565 kg (1245.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 720 l (25.43 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1440 l (50.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4440 mm (174.8 in.) |
| Width | 1798 mm (70.79 in.) |
| Height | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 167 mm (6.57 in.) |
| Approach angle | 20° |
| Departure angle | 21° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | independent torsion suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The XLV 1.6 utilized SsangYong’s D16DTF engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of the family of engines developed in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for improved combustion and reduced emissions. The valvetrain consists of four valves per cylinder (DOHC), contributing to efficient gas exchange. The engine’s 15.5:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, maximizing thermal efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a relatively direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission was chosen for its balance of fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 115 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque offered by the 1.6-liter diesel engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the XLV. Acceleration was reasonable for everyday driving, with the engine delivering its peak torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm, making it relatively flexible in various driving situations. Compared to higher-output versions of the XLV, such as those equipped with a more powerful diesel engine, the 1.6 felt less responsive, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain optimal engine speed for efficiency or power, but the gear ratios were tuned more for economy than outright performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of all-wheel-drive variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The XLV 1.6 typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment, focusing on practicality and convenience. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, if not luxurious, design. Higher trim levels offered options such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The XLV aimed to provide a good value proposition, offering a competitive level of equipment for its price point.
Chassis & Braking
The XLV 1.6 featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering, making it maneuverable in urban environments. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing ride quality over sharp cornering. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The SsangYong XLV 1.6 was generally well-received as a practical and affordable crossover SUV. Critics praised its spacious interior, generous boot capacity, and competitive fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.6-liter engine felt underpowered, particularly when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to other compact crossovers in the European market, such as the Nissan Qashqai or Kia Sportage, the XLV offered a more affordable price point but lacked the brand recognition and refinement of its competitors. The 1.6-liter diesel engine offered better fuel economy than the gasoline engine options available in some competing models, making it an attractive choice for drivers prioritizing efficiency.
Legacy
The SsangYong XLV 1.6, while not a sales blockbuster, established SsangYong as a viable contender in the competitive crossover SUV segment. The D16DTF engine proved to be relatively reliable, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. On the used car market, XLV 1.6 models are generally considered to be good value for money, offering a practical and spacious vehicle at an affordable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the typical maintenance requirements for a diesel engine, including regular servicing and potential issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF). The XLV paved the way for SsangYong’s subsequent SUV models, demonstrating the brand’s ability to produce competitive and well-equipped vehicles.
