SsangYong Motor Company is taking forward its design reputation with every passing auto show. The Korean carmaker, owned by Indian Mahindra & Mahindra has unveiled its XIV-2 convertible CUV (crossover utility vehicle). Talk about creating segments within cross segments!
XIV-2, short for eXciting User Interface Vehicle 2 has its philosophical DNA as a ‘fun vehicle’. Ssangyong thinks that an advanced convertible roof would allow an open top experience, and give the passengers a ‘wind in the hair’ experience for enhanced fun. It’s comparable to B-segment cars in size, but retains its rugged SUV DNA, and has been designed across global design clinics to appeal to young drivers in their twenties.
The XIV-2 will be equipped with Euro VI compliant 1.6 petrol and diesel engines mated to six speed manual or automatic transmission. The car will have an Stop/Start system to save fuel while idling. XIV-2 will be launched in various body styles including 5 door, 3 door, coupé and an extended body version.
SsangYong XIV-2 features a fabric roof with a one-touch automatic operating system to provide open air driving experience. SsangYong XIV-2’s cabin controls are integrated into one central system and managed using a centre console mounted screen. The system can connect with the user’s smartphone and other devices to enable the users to stay connected on the go.
SsangYong’s design philosophy focuses on conveying ‘driving fun’ through its experimental and progressive design spirit. Just as XIV-2 reflects SsangYong’s design principle now, the same ethos will be displayed in all future concept vehicles.