What's the news?
Remember the 1990s SsangYong Korando? This, allegedly, is its spiritual successor, although you'd never think it. The XAVL concept will debut at the Geneva Motor Show in a couple of weeks, and the Korean brand is aiming high.
What does XAVL stand for? Nope, try again. Its 'eXciting Authentic Vehicle Long SUV' - and if you look beyond the seemingly random assortment of words that make up its moniker you'll find a striking seven-seater crossover.
Following the lead of domestic rivals Hyundai and Kia, the XAVL is a statement of SsangYong's intent to move the brand upmarket. While no concrete details are available just yet, a host of occupant and pedestrian safety features are promised, along with the choice of petrol power or a new range of diesel engines.
Connectivity will feature highly, and the digital display evident on the interior cabin sketch looks bang up to date. According to SsangYong, the XAVL 'presents a tough and masculine looking SUV concept that blends advanced convenience and the practicality of a multi-purpose MPV.'
That's as much as we know for now, but more details will be revealed at the SsangYong stand come March 9th.