# Ssangyong Rodius — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Ssangyong Rodius on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/ssangyong-rodius

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2016
- **Ideal trim**: EX
- **Target mileage**: 60,000–90,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 3
- **Target price**: £7,500

## Why this model

The Ssangyong Rodius is a bit of a Marmite car when it comes to looks, but if you need serious space on a budget, it's hard to beat. It offers seating for up to seven (or even eleven in some markets, though seven is standard in the UK) with a huge boot, or you can fold seats down for van-like cargo capacity. It's built to be a workhorse, so while it might not be the most refined, it's generally robust if looked after. It's also already taken a massive hit on depreciation, making it a very affordable large MPV.

## What you should pay

The Rodius has always been a budget-friendly option, and on the used market, it represents incredible value for its size. Prices have stabilised at a low point, meaning you're buying it after the steepest depreciation curve. A well-maintained 2016 EX model with average mileage should fall comfortably within our target price range.

## Which trim to buy

The EX trim offers a great balance of features without pushing the price up too much. You'll typically get things like alloy wheels, climate control, and often an automatic gearbox, which makes driving such a large vehicle much more relaxed. The base SE can feel a bit sparse, and the top-spec ELX doesn't always justify the extra cost for the additional luxuries on a car of this type and age.

## What to check before you buy

- Suspension bushes wear (especially rear)
- Electrical gremlins (windows, central locking)
- DPF issues on models used for short journeys
- Rust around wheel arches and sills
- Automatic gearbox can be slow or clunky if not maintained

## Running costs

Running costs for a 2.2L diesel Rodius will include fuel at around 19p per mile (based on 35 MPG and £1.50/litre diesel). Road tax (VED) for a 2016 model will be around £360 per year due to its CO2 emissions. Insurance is typically moderate, falling into groups 20-25, so expect £400-£700 annually depending on your personal circumstances. Servicing costs are reasonable, but specific Ssangyong parts can sometimes be pricier or take longer to source than more common brands.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Diesel
- **Horsepower**: 178 hp (2.2L Diesel)
- **Mpg**: 30-35 MPG (real-world combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Mixed, generally robust but watch for specific issues
- **Safety Rating**: No Euro NCAP rating available for this generation

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| SE | £20,000 | £6,000 | Manual air conditioning; Electric windows; CD player with AUX/USB |
| EX | £23,000 | £7,500 | Automatic climate control; 17-inch alloy wheels; Rear parking sensors |
| ELX | £26,000 | £8,500 | Leather upholstery; Heated front seats; Electric driver's seat adjustment |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £7,500 | 100% |
| 2027 | £6,000 | 80% |
| 2028 | £5,000 | 66.7% |
| 2029 | £4,200 | 56% |
| 2030 | £3,500 | 46.7% |

You're buying the Rodius well past its initial steep depreciation phase. The value has already bottomed out significantly, meaning you'll lose less in absolute terms over your ownership period compared to buying a newer car. It's now in the 'affordable workhorse' segment where depreciation slows down considerably, making it a smart buy if you plan to keep it for a few years.

Total value lost since new: 53.3%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Kia Sedona/Carnival
- Hyundai i800
- [Ford Galaxy](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/ford-galaxy.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.