Korean SUV maker now owned by KG Mobility reveals technical details of its new EV.
KG Mobility – formerly known as Ssangyong – has revealed technical details of its new Torres EV-X electric SUV as it prepares to take pre-orders in its native Korea.
The Torres EV-X, the name of which derives from a combination of ‘electric vehicle’ and ‘extreme’, is powered by a 73.4kWh battery and a front-mounted 150kW electric motor.
According to KG, range stands at around 500km based on WLTP testing. Tests conducted by the Korean government, meanwhile, suggest a range of around 420km on a single charge.
The Torres is due to go into right-hand drive production later this year as a rival to the likes of the Skoda Enyaq and Toyota bZ4X. Just two specification levels will be available, named E5 and E7.
In E5 specification, the car is fitted with a heat pump, 18i-inch wheels, LED headlights, electric mirrors, a roof rack and automatic wipers. Inside, it features a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, dual-zone climate control, electric seats, an electric tailgate and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with sat-nav.
E7 trim adds upgraded leather seats, keyless entry, rear heated seats and a more rugged exterior design.
Both models are equipped with a suite of safety kit as standard, including lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.
The Torres has been priced at around 45,000,000 won in Korea, which translates to just under over $50,000 in Australia. Range-topping models come in at around $57,500.
If prices remain low when the Torres comes to Australia late 2023 or early 2024, the EV would sit very comfortably in our market. However, only a petrol version of the new SUV has been confirmed for now.
Images of the rugged SUV were first released on KG’s social-media channels, showcasing its new Powered by Toughness design direction, which includes a Jeep-style front end.
Other external features include slim LED headlights, faux front air intakes, a large aluminium skidplate and a long rear overhang.
The pictures also detailed a side storage box – like on the Land Rover Defender – and side steps, although it’s expected that these will be cost options.
KG said the new look draws on its “distinctive design heritage”, with a range of nods to the 1990s Musso – a Brit-designed, Mercedes-Benz-engined SUV.
Inside, there’s a ‘floating’ touchscreen in the middle of the dashboard and another screen directly below for controlling the interior temperature, driving modes, parking sensors and more. A slim digital instrument panel has also been shown.
The Torres is already on sale in Korea with a choice of petrol or diesel power.