The company importing the Rexton, Tivoli and Korando SUVs, SsangYong Motor UK, has rebranded to KGM Motors UK in line with the Korean vehicle manufacturer's global relaunch as it seeks to move on from its troubled recent history.

In addition to the new name, the UK distributor proudly adopts the brand's global slogan, "Go Different. KGM," reflecting a unified vision to inspire customers to embrace innovation and break away from the ordinary.

The niche, SUV-focused brand SsangYong had been used since 1988 by various parent groups, including Daewoo/GM Korea, SAIC and Mahindra, which owned it until SsangYong went into receivership in 2020 and was then bought by KG Mobility in early 2023, which is behind the rebrand to KGM.

In the UK, the new name will be set to the right of the brands iconic winged logo, which pays homage to KGM’s heritage since 1954. This corporate identity (CI) change will introduce a new refined brand colour scheme, where white on black replaces the current white on blue colour palette.

Existing SsangYong dealers will be rebranded, and the distributor hopes to grow its retail network to around 80 locations.

Kevin Griffin, managing director of KGM Motors UK, said: “KGM Global has changed its name for the first time in 35-years as it transforms into a brand for the future. This is an exciting period for us all in terms of unveiling a refreshed, modern brand identity alongside the development and launch of impressive products which utilise new technologies.

"We have embraced the change here in the UK and we will continue to grow as a proud and respected SUV and pick-up truck brand.”

It also has a strategy to steer away from the conventional 'value for money' perception and become known for high quality features and technology.