The bargain-priced crossover

The Ssangyong Tivoli isn’t the most obvious crossover choice, but is it worth considering? Ted Welford finds out.

Notamonthgoesby without details of another new crossover hitting the streets, and when there are so many models to choose from, a car really has to stand out if it stands a chance of succeeding. This puts somewhat unknown brands, like Ssangyong, in a precarious position. As the South Korean firm’s most compact model, the Tivoli has been its best-selling model yet, though its sales are still tiny next to competitors. But with the introduction of a noticeably updated car, does Ssangyong now stand a greater chance?

WHAT’S NEW?

The Tivoli – named after an Italian town – arrived in 2015, showcasing a stylish design, generous equipment levels and good value. Three traits it continues with to this day. Though Ssangyong calls this a ‘model year update’, considering it gets a range of new engines and overhauled interior, we’d argue it’s a bit more than that.

UNDER THE BONNET

Ssangyong still offers the Tivoli with a 1.6-litre diesel engine, but the new additions are a pair of turbocharged petrol engines

– a 126bhp 1.2-litre and a more powerful 161bhp 1.5-litre that’s used in our test car. You can choose it with either a six-speed manual or the six-speed auto, which allows for a 0-60mph time of 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 108mph. However, it’s remarkably thirsty for a model of this size – Ssangyong claims 36.7mpg, but we only managed 30mpg across a range of driving situations. CO2 emissions of 175g/km are also poor for a front-wheel-drive crossover.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Value for money is one of Ssangyong’s best assets, and the Tivoli’s £14,345 starting price makes it one of the most affordable new crossovers – only eclipsed by a few hundred pounds by the Dacia Duster. Standard kit on the base EX trim includes cruise control, keyless start and an assortment of driver assistance kit, but the mid-range Ventura would be our pick. While it commands a £3,000 price increase, it’s still a few thousand pounds less than the cheapest Juke, and gains features like heated seats, alloys wheels, an eight-inch touchscreen and a reversing camera. Ultimate models start from £20,345, and bring leather seats, electric mirrors, 18-inch alloy wheels and a digital instrument cluster.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

The Tivoli was a breath of fresh air when it launched, and almost seven years it’s still an appealing-looking option to our eyes. Its twin LED rear lights look great at night, while there’s just the right amount of plastic cladding to assert the ‘rugged’ crossover looks without it being overkill. The front end gets a nip and tuck, too, with a redesigned lower grille and new LED front fog lights being introduced. It’s a shame there isn’t yet an option for main LED headlights, as yellow halogens date the design.

THE VERDICT

If you rate value for money above all else, the Tivoli is worth considering. Prices undercut rivals, while the level of standard kit is generous too. Add in Ssangyong’s seven-year, 150,000-mile warranty and there are plenty of reasons as to why this crossover deserves your attention. It’s not the complete package, though, as many rivals are far better to drive and roomier inside.