In the past, SsangYong has inflicted on us some of the ugliest cars ever seen on UK roads. The original Rexton was hideous enough to make children cry, although things have greatly improved with the latest version.
Now the company has come up with the supermini-sized Tivoli, which may be a bit gawky-looking and might have styling which hints at everything from VW to Mini and DS3, but it’s not at all bad. And best of all, it’s very good value, with the range starting at just under £13,000.
In its most expensive guise, as a four-wheel drive 1.6-litre diesel automatic, it costs £19,500. But you don’t get a bargain-basement vehicle with nasty cheap plastics in its cabin and a spine-jarring ride. Instead, this is a pretty polished small car, with a supple ride and build quality to rival its fellow Korean car-makers Hyundai and Kia.
This small crossover vehicle is also surprisingly effective off the road. We are not talking Land Rover levels of ability, but it waded through deep without leaking and crept along muddy banks at alarming angles with great poise. For someone needing moderate levels of off-road ability, it is fine.
Interior finish is perfectly adequate, with EX and ELX trim getting leather as standard. There is the usual mixture of piano black and plastic looking like brushed aluminium, the dials are clear and the whole cabin feels rattle-free and well-screwed-together. The boot holds 423 litres of luggage and rear head and leg room are good.
The 115PS 1.6-litre diesel is refined and unfussy at motorway speeds and SsangYong claims 300Nm of torque and a so-so 51.4mpg. The Tivoli is a big step forward and is worth a look.
SsangYong Tivoli Diesel Automatic 4x4
Top speed: 107mph
C02: 146g/km
MPG: 51.4
Price: £19,500
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