Ssangyong Tivoli Review: 2016 Model | Tivoli | Car Buyers Guide

Car Buyers Guide were invited to the irish launch of the SsangYong Tivoli XLV. The newly launched compact SUV, which is a revised model the SsangYong Tivoli, is 60mm higher and 238mm longer than its little brother.  

The Tivoli XLV will enter the market in direct competition with SUVs such as the Nissan Qashqai and Mitsubishi ASX. The SsangYong Tivoli XLV is available in four trims; the Tivoli XLV 4X2 ES 1.6 D Manual, Tivoli XLV 4X2 EL 1.6 D Manual, Tivoli XLV 4X2 ES 1.6 D Auto and the Tivoli XLV AWD El 1.6 D Manual. Prices will range from €24,750 -€31,495.

SsangYong are marketing this SUV to both men and women with active and busy lifestyles. Joe Harris, Managing Director of SsangYong Motors Ireland had this to say about the Tivoli XLV: “I am delighted to see that the popular features of the Tivoli, such as its harmoniously fused SUV body design. The additional storage space in the boot and the flexibility of the rear folding seats should it be needed demonstrates how this is a car which can accommodate a variety of lifestyles.”

Boot space is an area of the Tivoli XLV that SsangYong are particularly proud of. They have increased the boot space to 574 litres with the standard spare wheel and repair kit. However, as an extra option for those needing more room, SsangYong can remove this spare wheel to increase the cargo space to 720 litres. Roof rails now come as standard whereas they were extra options for the Tivoli. The front bumper also received an update with a slightly more aggressive styling.

The deluxe version of the Tivoli XLV (the EL) includes some optional equipment such as a sliding sunroof and heated front and rear seats. Speaking of the seats,the same 32.5 degree reclining rear seat remain the same from the SsangYong Tivoli. The upholstery comes in either black leather, red leather (available with special order) or beige coloured leather. Car Buyers Guide’s pick of the bunch was the Beige upholstery, which when paired with the two-tone body and roof colours adds a certain degree of style. The 18in diamond cut alloys wheels that are exclusive the the EL also win the Tivoli XLV some extra style points.    

Safety wise, The SsangYong Tivoli boasts seven airbags: front airbags for driver and passenger, curtain airbags front and rear, side airbags for front seat passengers, and driver’s knee airbag. Also included as standard is an anti-lock braking system, electronic stability program (ESP) with hydraulic brake assist (HBA), hill start assist (HSA) and active rollover protection (ARP). Front and rear parking sensors are optional.

We only had a short time with the Tivoli XLV so I can’t comment too much on the drive quality. But from first impressions the Tivoli XLV drives smoothly, taking corners easily and the 18in alloy wheels help absorb any imperfections on the road. Car Buyers Guide will be taking the Tivoli XLV for an extensive test drive in the very near future, so check back soon for a full review.