The first generation of the SsangYong Rexton (Y200) frame SUV, produced from 2001 to 2006, was built on the Mercedes-Benz M-class (W163) platform with design input from Italdesign. The vehicle was offered exclusively with a five-door station wagon body and a spacious interior. The engine lineup included licensed Mercedes-Benz power units: 2.3-liter and 3.2-liter petrol engines, as well as 2.7-liter and 2.9-liter diesels. Transmissions included a 5-speed manual or automatic gearboxes (including 4-speed and 5-speed 5G-Tronic units). Compared to the preceding Musso SUV, the new model featured a more modern design, improved comfort levels, and richer trim options. In 2004, the car underwent an upgrade, receiving a new 2.7-liter XDi common-rail turbo diesel engine. The main target markets for the model were South Korea, Europe, Asia, and Russia, where assembly was established at local plants.