SsangYong XLV-Air and XAV Concepts Hint at a Future Off-Road

For Frankfurt this year, SsangYong has two concepts with the XAV-Adventure and XLV-Air (pictured above), and both of them are almost certain to spawn future production models.

The XAV-Adventure was also on display at this year's Seoul Motor Show where the chunky compact crossover imagined a future version of the SsangYong Korando. The styling is meant to appeal to a younger audience, and it carries a rugged look similar to a modern upgrade of the classic Toyota Land Cruiser. The roof features a canvas section that moves out of the way for infinite headroom inside. Power is provided by either a 1.6-liter petrol or diesel engine. In addition, there's a 13-horsepower electric motor at the front and two more 40-hp units at the rear to provide some hybrid propulsion from a 2.1 kWh lithium-ion battery.

SsangYong also has the XLV-Air concept on display in Germany. The larger crossover looks more menacing with its combination of matte paint and red lipstick. Underneath the mean look, the model is actually a longer version of the SsangYong Tivoli. In an earlier announcement, the brand said that a production version should hit the road early next year. In concept form, there's a choice between a 1.6-liter diesel or gasoline engine with a six-speed automatic or manual and two- or four-wheel drive.