SsangYong Rexton facelift revealed

Mahindra-owned SsangYong has released first images of the refreshed Rexton SUV. The new SsangYong Rexton gets styling and mechanical changes.

• Updated Rexton gets styling and mechanical changes
• Gets new safety tech like trailer sway control
• Rivals the Fortuner, Endeavour and Gloster in India

SsangYong Rexton facelift: what's new?

The mid-cycle update for SsangYong's Rexton SUV gets a number of styling changes, including a fresh look for the grille, LED headlights and bumper, as well as revised side-body cladding, restyled alloy wheels and different LED tail-lamps.

On the inside, the updated Rexton gets a 12.3-inch LED instrument cluster, new-look gear leverand steering wheel with paddle shifters, a new overhead console, seatbelt reminder function for all occupants, multi-paring Bluetooth setup and a rear-cabin sleep mode that can mute speakers at back. There isalso a cabin "talk function" where second- and third-row passengers can talk with the drivers via a mic and speakers.New safety tech addition to the updated Rexton includes trailer sway control.

Under the hood, the new SsangYong Rexton gets a more powerful 2.2-litrediesel engine that now churns out 202hp instead of 181hp. It gets more torque as well at 441Nm. Gearbox duties are now carried out by a new 8-speed automatic unit, produced by Hyundai Transys, that replaces the 6-speed version. The Rexton retains a selectable four-wheel-drive system that includes high- and low-ratio modes, and off-road settings.

SsangYong Rexton facelift: will it come to India?

The Rexton is sold in India currently as the Mahindra Alturas G4. The model did get a BS6 upgrade but has been a slow seller for the brand in India. With Mahindra planning to let go of the loss-making SsangYong brand, it remains to be seen whether the updated Rexton (Alturas) SUV will make it to our shores.