The first-generation SsangYong Rexton offered seven-seat, low-range 4×4 ability for far less than a Land Rover Discovery or Toyota Land Cruiser. Designed by Italdesign Giugiaro and powered by Mercedes-derived engines, it finally reached official UK showrooms in 2003 after an earlier false start.
Its combination of size, towing strength and generous equipment attracted practical buyers, but low sales and the disappearance of many hard-working examples now make early Rextons a rare sight.
Rexton UK history
The Y200 Rexton appeared internationally in 2001. Importer changes delayed proper British sales until 2003, when the RX290 diesel and RX320 petrol arrived. A much more useful 2.7-litre common-rail diesel followed in 2004. Later facelifts revised the nose, interior and equipment, while the basic ladder-frame structure remained.
This guide focuses on the 2003-2012 first-generation family, including facelifted Rexton II and Rexton W-related developments where relevant. Check the exact model year because engines, transmissions and four-wheel-drive systems vary.
UK engines and performance
| Model | Engine | Output | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| RX290 | 2.9 five-cylinder turbodiesel | About 120bhp | Simple but slow |
| RX320 | 3.2 straight-six petrol | About 220bhp | Smooth, rare and very thirsty |
| 270 Xdi | 2.7 five-cylinder common-rail diesel | 163-165bhp | Main UK version; 340Nm |
Depending on specification, the 270 Xdi used a five-speed manual or Mercedes-sourced five-speed automatic. Towing limits reached approximately 3,200kg on relevant UK models, making the Rexton popular with caravan, horsebox and trailer users.
Driving, towing and practicality
The Rexton drives like an old-school off-roader. Steering is light, the body moves substantially and the ride can thump at low speeds, but it settles on longer journeys. The 2.7 diesel provides adequate torque, whereas the RX290 must work hard with a full load.
Five-seat cars offer a very large boot; seven-seat versions sacrifice luggage space when the third row is in use. Equipment was generous and could include leather, climate control, heated and powered seats, sunroof and electronic traction systems.
First-generation Rexton common problems
- 2.7 Xdi injectors: hard starting, smoke, uneven idle or diesel knock can indicate injector or fuel-system trouble. Removal can be difficult if injectors have seized into the head.
- Automatic transmission: check fluid condition, smooth engagement and changes under load. Harsh shifts or limp mode require diagnosis.
- Cooling system: inspect radiator, expansion tank, water pump and hoses. Any overheating history is a serious warning.
- Four-wheel drive: test every setting on a loose surface. Warning lamps, failed actuators and neglected transfer oils need attention.
- Front suspension: ball joints, bushes and wheel bearings work hard on this heavy vehicle.
- Electrics: test central locking, windows, seat controls, air conditioning, dashboard displays and every warning lamp.
Rust and structural inspection
Inspect the chassis rails, rear crossmember, body mounts, suspension brackets, brake pipes, fuel tank straps and towbar mounting area. Mud and old underseal can hide corrosion. Look at the floors and sills, and check that heavy towing has not distorted or cracked mounting points.
Panel and lamp availability is better than for the earlier Musso and Korando, but model-year differences matter. Poor accident repairs are common on low-value SUVs.
Service history and running costs
A stamped book is useful, but invoices showing correct fluids and substantial repairs are more important. The 2.7 Xdi needs clean fuel, suitable oil and attention to injector sealing. Automatic gearbox, axle and transfer fluids should not be ignored merely because intervals are vague.
Large tyres, brakes, fuel consumption and high emissions-based road tax make a cheap Rexton more costly to run than its purchase price suggests. Insurance can be reasonable, and access to KGM/SsangYong specialists remains better than for many defunct marques.
Which Rexton should you buy?
The 270 Xdi is the sensible choice, ideally with a strong service record and evidence of sympathetic towing use. A manual removes one automatic-transmission concern, while the automatic better suits the engine and long-distance character. The RX320 is an interesting rarity for very low annual mileage.
Frequently asked questions
When did the Rexton go on sale in Britain?
Official UK sales began in 2003. The more powerful 270 Xdi diesel joined the range in 2004.
Can a first-generation Rexton tow a large caravan?
Many UK versions were rated to tow up to about 3,200kg, but the exact limit must be checked on the vehicle plate and documents.
Is the 2.7 diesel a Mercedes engine?
It was developed from Mercedes technology and manufactured by SsangYong. Parts identification should always use the SsangYong engine code and VIN.
