KGM Korando III (C200) (2010 – 2019)

Reliability score : 7.6/10

The third-generation Korando (code name C200) marks a historic turning point for the South Korean brand (sold under the name SsangYong at the time, today KGM). Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, it abandons the ladder chassis for a modern monocoque structure, positioning it against European and Asian compact SUVs. It benefited from two major facelifts: in 2013 (significant improvement in interior quality and soundproofing) and in 2017 (new front end). Although shunned in Western Europe in favor of diesels, the 2.0 e-XGi petrol engine was a great success in Eastern European, Asian, and South American markets thanks to its simple and robust design. It is a rational SUV, offering an excellent price-to-roominess ratio and very good towing capabilities, but penalized by a weak brand image and high

✅ Strengths

Excellent overall mechanical reliability on the petrol version (2.0 e-XGi)
Generous rear roominess (flat floor) and trunk volume
High towing capacity (up to 2000 kg depending on version)
Unbeatable price-to-equipment ratio on the used market
Very smooth and reliable Aisin automatic gearbox (on petrol and 2.2 diesel)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Very high fuel consumption on the 2.0 petrol (often > 9L/100km)
Petrol engine lacking low-rev torque (197 Nm) compared to current standards
Very basic interior plastic quality on pre-2013 models (scratch easily)
DSI automatic gearbox on early 2.0 diesels (slow, jerking, fragility)
Sparse dealer network and difficult resale (high depreciation)

🎯 Verdict

The SsangYong/KGM Korando III is an extremely rational used choice for those looking for a spacious SUV without breaking the bank. The 2.0 e-XGi petrol version is the hidden gem of the range in terms of reliability: its simple architecture (no turbo, indirect injection, timing chain) shields it from the costly breakdowns that strike modern downsized engines. Its only real flaw is its fuel appetite. If you opt for a diesel, avoid the 2.0 models associated with the DSI automatic gearbox and favor the post-2015 2.2 e-XDi, which is much more refined. Buy it with full knowledge of the facts: you will keep it until the end, as its resale will be difficult.

Common issues

Défaillance du catalyseur ou des sondes Lambda Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 700 – 1 300 €

Surveiller le témoin moteur; un remplacement peut être coûteux.

Bobines d'allumage défectueuses Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 300 – 600 €

Attention aux ratés moteur; remplacer les bobines prévient d'autres dommages.

Capteurs moteur (ex: PMH, MAF) en panne Medium

🔧 90 000 – 160 000 km

💶 150 – 400 €

Des démarrages difficiles ou pertes de puissance indiquent un capteur défaillant.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£650 – 1 300
Clutch	£750 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.