We first drove the Ssangyong Tivoli back last year when it launched as the first small crossover
in the manufacturer’s range and the car it’s really banking on to crack the European
market.
Typically known for its large SUVs and pickups, things seem to have gone well for Ssangyong
and the Tivoli so far, and a larger MPV-style version is due to join the range later this
year.
We’ve got our hands on the range-topping ELX model which features these rather smart
black alloys and contrasting black roof, so let’s jump inside for a closer look.
In general, although it mightn’t be quite as sleek as offerings from other rivals, the
Tivoli features a nifty cabin design that’s lightyears away from the rugged build of Ssangyong’s
more traditional vehicles.
The dash and centre console are reasonably well laid out if a bit button-heavy, and although
the plastics aren’t amazing, it’s nothing that would keep you awake at night.
All models except the entry-level version get this seven-inch touchscreen, while even
the basic SE trim gets cruise control, keyless entry and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
Nice.
Given that this ELX sits at the pinnacle of the range, you get a smart instrument cluster,
front and rear parking sensors and sat-nav, along with full leather upholstery and auto
lights and wipers.
In the back, passengers can ride comfortably with plenty of leg and headroom despite the
Tivoli’s relatively small dimensions compared to the rest of Ssangyong’s range.
Do bear in mind that a larger version called the Tivoli XLV will be out later this year
with more space, so if you like the look of it but need a bit more practicality, the XLV
might be worth holding out for.
The boot holds a respectable 423 litres with 60:40 split rear seats.
Buyers can also specify an optional split-level boot floor, and while it mightn’t hold as
much as a Renault Captur for example, there’s still plenty of space for most drivers.
Currently, only two engines are available with the Tivoli, a 1.6-litre petrol and a
1.6-litre turbodiesel.
Good news then for anybody who likes their choices simple, while both also come with
either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic.
We’ve got the diesel engine here, with 113bhp, four-wheel drive and the automatic transmission.
It’s not fast by any means and it does get a little shouty under duress, but it’s got
more than enough poke for the motorway and the drive, while a bit uninspiring, is entirely
competent.
If we’re being critical, the brakes are a bit grabby; they don’t bite immediately
and then suddenly all come on at once, and there’s a fair bit of jiggling around from
the suspension when in the corners, but the ride is comfortable even on these 18-inch
alloys.
More interesting is the fuel economy.
Ssangyong says that this diesel can return up to 65.7mpg with just 113g/km of CO2, which
ain’t half bad.
Beware though, that the automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive will see that drop to
around 48mpg, while CO2 emissions will rise to 156g/km.
The 4x4 system, something of a Ssangyong specialty, is able to cope impressively well with slippery
surfaces despite the fact that the car isn’t a dedicated off-roader, while it can even
tow up to 1.5 tonnes regardless of whether it’s front or four-wheel drive.
Given that pricing for the Tivoli ranges between just £12,950 and £19,500, it’s incredibly
well-placed amongst its rivals and also comes with a fair bit more equipment as standard.
As well as that, you also get a five-year unlimited warranty which isn’t quite Kia
good, but is still better than many competitors.
With a wide range of equipment, a decent drive and keen pricing, really the only thing that
could hamper the Tivoli’s success is that it sits in one of the most hotly-contested
segments in the market.
While it still has some way to go in order to be as good as the real big hitters in its
segment, in the Tivoli Ssangyong has created a European-style car that could genuinely
appeal to Europeans.
So long as you’re not too bothered about whether or not the neighbours can pronounce
its name, that is.
But what are your thoughts on the Ssangyong Tivoli?
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