The production version of last year’s SsangYong SUT 1 Concept, the new Korando Sports utility pick-up, will go sale in the UK this October, the Korean company confirmed today.

The automaker has not yet released pricing but SsangYong marketing and communications director Steve Gray pointed out that it will be “extremely competitive”.

For the record, the regular SUV variant of the Korando series starts at £16,995 in Britain.

“This is more a passenger car with pick-up versatility,” said Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK. “Consequently, it offers refinements that few of our competitors can match.”

The Korando Sports comes with standard four-wheel drive and the towing capability to haul up to 2.3 tonnes. At the back, there’s a flat deck that provides a 2.04m2 load area, complete with load deck liner and anchor points while SsangYong will also offer an optional rigid hard top.

Power for the Korando Sports comes from the brand’s latest e-XDi active 2.0-liter diesel engine with a maximum power of 153hp (155PS) and peak torque of 265 lb-ft (360Nm) delivered between 1,500rpm and 2,800rpm.

Along with the standard manual gearbox, there will also be an optional 6-speed automatic transmission.

The range will include two trim models, the SX and the better equipped EX with leather upholstery with seat warmers, powered driver’s seat, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated, electrically adjustable and power folding door mirrors, and rear parking sensors.

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