The small SUV market is the most rapidly growing markets in the automobile industry, over the years consumer preference for small SUVs has increased exponentially. This is also the reason why this segment is one of the most competitive segments. So for any car to really make it in the segment they have to really stand out to get noticed and fortunately the SsangYong Tivoli does just that; it stands out.

Tivoli is one of those small SUVs that provide the look and feel of an Off-roader but with the performance and running costs of an everyday family hatchback. How does the Tivoli stack up against its competition? Read on to find out.

EXTERIOR

On the outside the Tivoli looks small and low, its not very high off the ground so we don’t recommend you go off-roading in this. On the front you get a bumper that masks the headlights and the fog lights down below with a narrow slit for the grille. The fog lamps are also wrapped around with body colored bumpers.

You’ll find black inserts between the headlamp units that come with projectors and DRLs with a sizeable SsangYong badge placed in the middle. Over to the side, the first thing you will notice is the sloping roof with two clean lines above and below the door space with a sharp curve line just above the rear door handle that has also been raised to add some muscle to the car.

While this raised bodywork looks normal in pictures it is very pronounced when face to face as it even shows in the rearview mirrors. All this sits on alloy wheels, which adds to the decency of the vehicle.

INTERIOR

As we’ve said earlier, it is important to stand out. Tivoli does that on the inside, starting from the doors that open nice and wide. And space is the name of the game. Our review team consists of 5 larger than average Nepalese, with the driver’s seat set to the needs of one of our reviewers who is over six feet tall, there was plenty leg room and head room for others at the back.

Seating three in the back is also comfortable because of the low transmission tunnel, you could definitely go on a long drive with all 5 on board without any complaints. The materials used inside the cabin is also good, the steering feels nice and chunky with media controls, the touchscreen infotainment system is also smart and responsive, there are adequate soft-touch materials and there are lots of storage spaces.

SAFETY

Tivoli is equipped with 7 airbags for maximum passenger protection on impact – the most in its class.

These include a driver’s knee protection airbag – a feature normally found in prestige vehicles- also a high grade steel monocoque structure and a range of electronic safety aids. Tivoli EX and ELX also feature AEBS, an automated braking system that gives these models 4 star Euro NCAP rating. In addition to this, ELX models feature a Lane Keeping Assist system, Traffic Sign Recognition and High Beam Assist. Tivoli is equipped with ISOFIX child seat mountings to the rear outer seats to allow a firm and rigid attachment of child seats. In the event of a collision, the pre-tensioner immediately tightens the seatbelt over the chest and lap, ensuring the occupant is in the best possible restrained position if the airbags are deployed. Rest assured, the Tivoli makes you feel very safe when you are on the road.

PERFORMANCE

Tivoli is powered by a 1.6-liter petrol, which is mated to a 6-Speed transmission that produces 124 BHp. It is a naturally aspirated petrol engine, with maximum power coming in at 6,000rpm, while peak torque of 160 Nm arrives at 4,600rpm. The accelerator is responsive and the clutch is light, and with a steering wheel, that has different selectable modes. The double disc brakes Tivoli offers also gives you a sense of confidence behind the wheel.

While the lack of ground clearance will discourage you from going offroad, on-road experience in the car feels commendable. Coming back to that steering wheel, it offers three modes; “Normal” which as the name suggests is preferable for normal everyday driving which doesn’t require further explaining. There’s a “Comfort” mode which increases the sensitivity of the steering wheel and decreases the weight and the feedback, which equals to smooth city driving, taking tight U-turns becomes as easy and smooth as carving butter. Then there is the “Sport” mode, which adds extra heft and feedback to the steering wheel that is felt in every turn, this adds an extra sporty feel to the car.

VERDICT

Tivoli is that small SUV with a big heart; it is amazingly spacious and properly equipped.

The drive is easy around the cities and the car is loaded with safety kit that gives you confidence behind the wheel. The car has all the features you need and on the outside it is quite the looker. Tivoli is one good small SUV that you should take a look at.