The SsangYong Rexton W is a reminder of the way big 4x4s used to be. That’s no surprise: today’s car traces its roots to the Rexton that went on sale in 2003. While most off-roaders have become lighter but costlier, the Rexton W stays true to the old formula of a big car with a small price. Practical Caravan’s team has had a top-spec Rexton W EX Auto on the long-term fleet, and put the car through a full tow test.

We know the Rexton W weighs a lot and costs relatively little, but how rough and ready is it? Are driver appeal, refinement and comfort compromised for a two-tonne kerbweight and a high towing limit? Our expert test team took the SUV to the test track to find out.