SsangYong’s XAVL Concept to Debut in Geneva with SUV Looks, MPV Practicality

It’s the follow-up to the XAV Concept from 2015

We've lost track of how many concept SUVs SsangYong has released in recent years, and another one is just around the corner.

Coming up at the Geneva Motor Show is the XAVL Concept — which is SsangYong speak for "eXciting Authentic Vehicle Long SUV." As the name suggests, XAVL is a further iteration of the XAV design study that launched at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.

SsangYong says the XAVL's styling draws inspiration from the classic Korando model of the 1990s, but that's where the similarities end. Whereas the Korando was a tough off-roader, the XAVL presents itself as a combination between an SUV and an MPV. The mid-size crossover blends sports utility vehicle traits such as the raised ride height and rugged appearance with the convenience and practicality of a minivan.

As a result, the XAVL study offers a "wide inner space" for seven passengers. It also features a user-friendly interface that includes connected car technology and a digital display. The concept showcases new safety aids as well and can pack both gasoline and diesel engines.

Judging from the renderings released so far, the XAVL looks more like a prototype than a design study, which means it should spawn a production-spec version rather sooner than later.