KGM Rexton II (Y220) (2006 – 2017)

Reliability score : 7.4/10

The KGM / SsangYong Rexton II (Y220), which also encompasses the major facelift named Rexton W (Y290) from 2012 onwards, is a family SUV designed as a true off-roader. Built on a robust ladder frame chassis, it stands out for its use of technologies licensed from Mercedes-Benz (engines and gearboxes). Although the European market was flooded with diesel engines, the petrol versions (which are the focus of our review) are particularly sought after by connoisseurs for their exceptional reliability, inherited from the Mercedes blocks of the 90s. It is a heavy, rustic vehicle, an excellent tow car, but its road handling remains clumsy compared to modern unibody SUVs. Overall rating: an excellent used choice for towing or off-roading on a budget, provided you can accept the gargantuan fuel cons

✅ Strengths

Exceptional reliability of the petrol engines (Mercedes-Benz M104 and M111 architecture)
Real off-road capabilities (ladder frame chassis, low-range gearbox, solid rear axle on some versions)
Impressive towing capacity (up to 3,200 kg)
Generous interior space (available in 7 seats)
5-speed automatic gearbox (T-Tronic / MB 722.6) extremely robust if the fluid is changed
Unbeatable price/performance ratio on the used market

⚠️ Weaknesses

Astronomical fuel consumption on the 3.2L petrol (difficult to drop below 13L/100km)
Dated road handling (body roll, vague steering, barely adequate braking)
Quality of interior plastics and assembly could be improved (rattles and squeaks)
Sensitivity to corrosion on the ladder frame chassis (mountain or seaside vehicles)
Sparse KGM/SsangYong dealer network for specific parts
Disastrous reliability of the Delphi injection system on the 2.7L diesels

🎯 Verdict

The SsangYong Rexton II is a paradox. If you opt for the 2.7L diesel engines (the most common), the risk of costly breakdowns (injectors) is high. On the other hand, if you find a rare 3.2L petrol version, you are buying a vehicle with almost infallible mechanical reliability, powered by the heart of a 90s Mercedes S-Class. It is the perfect choice for towing a horse trailer or a boat over short distances, or for a bioethanol (E85) / LPG conversion to counter its gargantuan fuel consumption. Purchase is recommended provided you rigorously inspect the chassis for rust and ensure that the 4x4 transfer case works.