SsangYong ventures into the MPV market. SsangYong have recently launched the Stavic (meaning rising star in Korean) into the MPV market.This radical looking vehicle is re-inventing the MPV adding more power, space and utility to a very comfortable and stylishly designed vehicle. The STAVIC is one of a kind, something you've got to experience to believe! The Stavic gives you the freedom and versatility of an SUV with the elegance and class of a saloon car. Performance The STAVIC is powered by the new 270Xdi CRD power plant which is also used in the Rexton SUV. With assistance from Mercedes Benz engineers, SsangYong have created an engineering masterpiece with a diesel motor as quiet as a luxury saloon. This highly sophisticated motor develops 121kw of power at 4000rpm and a delivers 340Nm of torque at 2400rpm. The Mercedes 3rd generation common rail system uses the Mercedes Can engine management system to ensure optimal handling through real time torque control and is among the most robust power plants in its class. The 270Xdi motor is coupled to the Mercedes Benz 5 speed tip-tronic gearbox. This gearbox has been programmed to match the Stavic's engine for optimal performance and economy. In manual mode just nudge the gear lever left or right to get the dynamic response one expects from a manual transmission. The STAVIC is rear wheel driven for better stability and balance. An optimized combustion system ensures outstanding fuel efficiency for greater economy and currently complies with the latest Euro III emission standards and has satisfied Euro IV in internal tests. Suspension The STAVIC is equipped with double wishbone front suspension and a multilink rear suspension. This 10 link rear system is normally only found on top-end vehicles such as Jaguar, Mercedes Benz and BMW 7series. Exterior - bold styling that stands out from the crowd The STAVIC was selected for outstanding industrial design in the SUV/MPV category for 2004 in an annual event organised by the Korean Institute of Design. Large high intensity head lamps provide superb illumination and reflect a hint of ruggedness and these lights surround the SsangYong's signature triple-line grill pattern to give a feeling of retro styling that project luxury and dynamism. The front view illustrates dynamic fusion for to-day and tomorrow. The sleek side view conjures up the image of a luxury yacht. Futuristic rear styling projects a sporty image. The large swing doors provide easy access to the second and third row seats Interior-ergonomics and aesthetics have been blended to perfection The centre cluster consists of speedometer, rev counter, fuel and heat gauge whilst the warning and operation lamps have been placed in front of the driver. This is a genuine seven seater with incomparable roominess and spatial efficiency to make travelling fun. The middle seats have dual armrests to for added comfort. Middle and rear seats slide forward or back for increased leg room or packing space, boot space is 620dm3 A multi meter is mounted overhead and provides useful information such as travel time, average speed, date and time as well as featuring a compass, barometric pressure as well as an altimeter. A large dual centre console has ample space for CD's etc. The leather clad steering wheel has paddle style audio and remote controls for the luxury audio system which features front loader CD player, tape deck, equaliser and a six speaker sound system. The Stavic features electronically controlled air conditioning which includes an air quality control system. This air-con system has air ducts in the roof to improve heating and air conditioning effectiveness in the rear seats. Rear passengers have their own air-con control. Safety Driver and passenger airbags are standard. The Stavic also features front, side and roof protection. ABS and EBD are standard as well as ventilated discs all round. Automatic light switch is standard as well as headlamp height adjusters. Pricing The STAVIC is priced from R299 900.00 for the SV270 A/T which includes a three year 100000km warranty and a three year 60000km maintenance plan.