SsangYong’s next rugged-looking SUV, codenamed KR10, has been leaked.
Korean outlet Autopost has shared images of what appears to be a mock-up at SsangYong’s design centre.
The upcoming KR10 has only been previewed in sketch form previously.
Like the recently revealed Torres, which SsangYong Australia says is in its plans, the chunky KR10 has made the transition from 2D sketch to 3D vehicle with few changes.
There are flared wheel arches, distinctive circular lighting elements and a creased bonnet.
There’s an unusual diamond-patterned grille, while underneath there’s a pronounced skid plate.
The exterior mirrors also resemble those of the Torres.
While no photos were leaked of the rear, the sketches show it’ll feature a tailgate design similar to that of the Torres.
There’s a simulated spare tyre hump, giving the KR10 – like the Torres – a more rugged look than existing SsangYong SUVs like the Korando.
It’s unclear if the production model will offer the sliding canvas roof depicted in the sketches.
It’s also unclear what will power the KR10, though an electric powertrain option appears likely considering the Korando and, soon, the Torres have electric power.
The sketches and mockup also appear to show a closed-off grille, hinting at an electric powertrain.
Further, we don’t know what platform will underpin the KR10. SsangYong has also yet to confirm what underpins the Torres, although it appears to share its turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with the Korando.
While the Torres slots between the Korando and the Rexton, the KR10’s planned positioning is unclear.
SsangYong recently confirmed it would launch an electric SUV in the second half of 2023, though this could be the electric version of the Torres.
It’s also indicated it plans to introduce an electric ute.
It’s unclear if any of these previously stated plans will be affected by SsangYong’s pending sale to a consortium led by the KG Group.
The Korean chemical and steel company has been approved by the Seoul Bankruptcy Court as SsangYong’s final bidder after the automaker went up on the auction blocks again.
SsangYong Torres
Edison Motors had previously been chosen as the bidder, but the deal was scrapped when it didn’t make payment.
The KG Group will reportedly acquire SsangYong for 950 billion won (A$1.06 billion), including 600 billion won (A$671 million) of operating capital.
SsangYong is reportedly aiming to sign a deal with the KG Group consortium in early July, before submitting its rehabilitation plan to the court later that month for approval in late August.
SsangYong has until October 15 to find a new owner and submit a new restructuring plan to the Seoul Bankruptcy Court.
