Ssangyong Motor Co., South Korea’s smallest automaker, on Thursday unveiled the latest version of its diesel-powered leisure utility vehicle in a bid to meet growing consumer demand for outdoor leisure activities.

The Korando Sports is equipped with a 2.0-liter e-XDi200 diesel engine, which produces a maximum 155 horsepower. The company said the engine has a high fuel efficiency of 15.6 kilometers per liter and six-speed automatic transmission, the carmaker said.

“Ssangyong invested 90 billion won ($77.7 million) for two years in the development of the Korando Sports,” said Lee Yoo-il, the CEO of Ssangyong Motor, in a media launch program in Seoul. “The Korando Sport targets urban drivers who enjoy outdoor sports and other activities.”

LUVs are a new type of car that specializes in leisure activities with a rear deck and wider interior space for carrying luggage and other large-size items, Ssangyong said.

The Korando Sports is the third generation of the carmaker’s LUVs, following the Musso Sports released in 2002 and the Actyon Sports in 2006.

Ssangyong Motor said the new vehicle meets the Euro-5 rule, the Europe’s stringent emission standard for cars, and has improved safety with front and side airbag protection. It also features a special body designed to minimize the impact for passengers.

Ssangyong Motor, currently under control of Indian sport utility vehicle maker Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., sold 113,001 vehicles last year, ranking fifth in South Korea’s domestic car market. 

(Yonhap News)