Review of the KGM Korando

The KGM Korando is a versatile family SUV that won't let your family down. With a user-friendly interior and loads of advanced safety features, it's the perfect companion for creating memories with the family. 

Rivals to the Korando include the Volkswagen T-Cross, Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Skoda Karoq. 

Our KGM Korando review covers:

• Bold and imposing exterior design 
• Spacious and practical interior 
• 551-litre boot
• 1.5-litre petrol engine 
• Two trim levels 

Pros:

• Practical interior 
• Loads of kit as standard 
• Affordable 

Cons:

• Only one petrol engine 
• Not as exciting as some of its rivals 
• Mediocre to drive 

The Korando is now its fourth generation and has adopted a bolder and more contemporary look. The first thing you'll notice is the front grille; the chrome horizontal slats and bumper make for an imposing road presence. There's also a muscly body and unique rear end. For the latter, I'm still unsure whether I like the design or not. 

The Korando is bigger than most family SUVs, so it seriously impresses in terms of practicality. Up front, there's plenty of room for adults over six feet, and three adults can sit in the rear and get comfortable. We also like that the rear floor is flat, so the middle passenger won't be complaining. 

You get a boot space of 551 litres, which is bigger than both the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Karoq. The fun doesn't stop there; it also comes with a height-adjustable boot floor and low-loading lip, helping to ease the pain in the knees and back when loading and unloading. 

The Korando's interior is nothing out of the ordinary for a family SUV; there's a nice range of technology, and everything feels well-built. There are a few premium materials, like leather seats and soft-touch plastics, but also some cheaper ones, like harder plastics. But that's just us being critical. 

KGM calls the Korando's cabin the 'Blaze Cockpit, whatever that means. But, even with the whacky name, you'll be happy to know that it comes with two digital displays and 34-colour mood lighting. For the two screens, you get a nine-inch infotainment system (on the K40 trim) and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, the latter of which can display your navigation. 

Two trims are available: K30 and K40. 

K30 comes with 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, LED front fog lights, an eight-inch smart audio screen, a 10.25-inch digital cluster, and a leather-covered steering wheel. 

K40 has 19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, a nine-inch screen with navigation and smartphone mirroring, premium leather seats, and automatic dual-zone air conditioning. 

The Korando comes with a 1.5-litre petrol engine that's available with either a manual or automatic transmission. Unfortunately, it's only available in two-wheel drive. 

It comes with 163hp and shoots from 0 to 62mph in just over ten seconds. For fuel economy, you'll be looking at a figure in the mid-30s. 

On the road, the Korando is a smooth and composed drive. Around town, the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes, and the various driver assistance systems make inner-city driving that bit less stressful. 

The handling is decent for a family SUV, but it won't get you on the edge of your seat. It's more suited to comfort rather than performance and isn't as sporty as the Skoda Karoq or Seat Ateca. 

On the motorway, it's a pleasant cruiser but seems more suited to the middle lane than the outside lane. The fuel economy also takes a bit of a hit at higher speeds, so ensure you plan a pit stop on route. 

Prices for the new KGM Korando start from £23,965.00 OTR* or to lease from Price On Request per month.

Looking to get behind the wheel of the KGM Korando? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK's largest car leasing brokers and offers a range of leasing deals to suit your every need.

Leasing may be cheaper than an outright purchase, thanks to a low initial deposit and fixed monthly rentals.

*' On the road' price correct at time of publication and includes one year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Prices are subject to change; always check with your nearest retailer.