The SsangYong Korando KJ is one of the rarest officially sold 1990s 4x4s in Britain. Its round headlights, separate front wings and compact three-door body gave it a deliberately retro appearance, while a ladder chassis, low-range transmission and Mercedes-derived engines made it a serious off-roader.
It arrived as a SsangYong in 1997 and later became the Daewoo Korando. Contemporary estimates suggest only a few hundred reached UK buyers, so finding a sound survivor is now the greatest challenge.
UK history
The Korando name predates SsangYong ownership, but the KJ generation was a fresh design led by British designer Ken Greenley. It entered the UK market in 1997, joining the larger Musso. SsangYong’s acquisition by Daewoo brought a badge change in 1999, revised trim and lower prices.
Daewoo offered the three-door Korando with 2.3-litre petrol and 2.9-litre diesel power. UK stocks disappeared during 2002, though related versions continued in other markets. Both SsangYong- and Daewoo-badged British cars belong to the same basic KJ family.
Engines and mechanical specification
| UK version | Engine | Approximate output | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3 petrol | Mercedes-derived four-cylinder | 140-150bhp | Smoother; high fuel consumption |
| 2.9 diesel | Mercedes-derived five-cylinder | 98-100bhp | Very steady performance |
| 2.9 TD | Turbocharged five-cylinder diesel | About 120bhp | More usable; scarce in Britain |
| 3.2 petrol | Straight-six | About 210-220bhp | Rare and not a mainstream UK choice |
Most cars have part-time four-wheel drive and low range, selected by a dashboard control. The short wheelbase and small overhangs give useful off-road geometry, but the three-door layout limits everyday practicality.
Driving and practicality
The Korando is more composed on the road than its appearance suggests, although the steering is slow and refinement modest. The 2.9 diesel suits off-road use but feels underpowered on modern traffic routes. Petrol cars are quieter and quicker but can consume fuel at an alarming rate.
Rear access is awkward, yet the cabin and boot are reasonable for a short three-door 4×4. Equipment on Daewoo versions could include ABS, air conditioning, electric windows, remote locking and an alarm.
SsangYong Korando KJ common problems
- Cooling system: check radiator condition, hoses, viscous fan operation, coolant staining and any evidence of overheating.
- Head gasket and oil leaks: inspect both diesel and petrol engines for mixed fluids, pressurisation and leaks around the head and front covers.
- Gearbox and transfer case: listen for bearing noise and test every ratio. Confirm four-wheel drive and low range engage without warning lights.
- Front hubs: neglected vacuum or automatic hub systems can prevent drive reaching the front wheels.
- Electrical faults: immobilisers, central locking, window mechanisms and aging connectors can cause intermittent failures.
- Suspension and steering: inspect ball joints, track-rod ends, bushes, dampers and wheel bearings.
Rust and accident damage
Check the entire ladder chassis, especially body mounts, rear sections, suspension brackets and areas hidden by mud. Examine sills, floors, inner wings, seat-belt mounts and the rear body. Rust can turn a cheap Korando into an uneconomic project.
Replacement exterior panels and trim are scarce. The unusual front wings, grille, lamps, bumpers and optional hard- or soft-top pieces should all be present and undamaged.
Parts and servicing
The Mercedes-derived engines encourage optimism, but buyers should avoid assuming components can be ordered against a Mercedes model. Use engine codes and the Korando’s VIN. Mechanical specialists and owners’ groups can help cross-reference service parts; body and interior components often depend on used stock.
Look for evidence of regular oil, coolant, axle and transfer-fluid changes. Off-road use demands closer inspection of breathers, seals, underbody damage and wheel bearings.
Buying verdict
Buy the best, most complete example rather than chasing a particular badge. A diesel suits the Korando’s rugged character, while the 2.3 petrol is more pleasant for occasional use. Avoid severe corrosion, incomplete four-wheel-drive systems and cars missing unique trim even if the purchase price is tempting.
Frequently asked questions
Was the Korando KJ sold as both a SsangYong and Daewoo?
Yes. It launched in Britain as a SsangYong in 1997 and was rebadged after Daewoo took control of the company.
How rare is it in the UK?
Period used-car material reported only around 360 Daewoo-era examples sold here, with earlier SsangYong cars also uncommon.
Is it a genuine off-roader?
Yes. Its ladder chassis, selectable four-wheel drive, low range and short overhangs provide real off-road ability.
