A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4
Running Costs
4.2
Practicality
4.3
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a compact SUV that offers genuine value without breaking the bank? The SsangYong Tivoli delivers exactly that with its practical design and competitive pricing in the crowded crossover market. This Korean built SUV punches above its weight with a spacious interior, decent equipment levels, and a comprehensive seven year warranty that few rivals can match. While it may not have the badge appeal of competitors like the Nissan Juke or Renault Captur, the Tivoli makes up for it with honest practicality and strong value for money. The driving experience is comfortable rather than exciting, with engines that prioritise economy over performance. Inside, you’ll find more space than many rivals offer, plus a generous equipment list that includes essentials like air conditioning, electric windows, and a decent infotainment system as standard. Running costs are reasonable thanks to efficient petrol engines and that impressive warranty coverage. The Tivoli appeals to buyers who want SUV practicality without paying premium prices, making it an excellent choice for families seeking reliable transport with flexible finance options available.
What's the SsangYong Tivoli Like to Drive?
The SsangYong Tivoli focuses on practical performance rather than outright speed. The petrol engine lineup includes a 1.6 litre naturally aspirated unit producing around 128 horsepower, which feels adequate for most driving situations. There’s also a turbocharged 1.6 litre option delivering 163 horsepower for those wanting more punch. Both engines are smooth and refined, making motorway cruising comfortable and relaxed.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.6L 4-cylinder Petrol / 1.6L Turbo Petrol
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Power Output
128 - 163 bhp
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0-60 mph
10.8 - 9.2 seconds
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MPG Combined
38 - 42 mpg
- Boot Space
- 423 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the SsangYong Tivoli: Comfort & Features
Open the doors and the Tivoli’s interior feels more upmarket than the price suggests. The dashboard design is clean and modern, with soft touch materials in key areas. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with good adjustment range to help you find an ideal driving position. Build quality feels solid throughout, with controls operating with satisfying precision.
The SsangYong Tivoli is a no-frills compact SUV that prioritizes practicality and value over flair. Its smooth, refined engines deliver relaxed cruising, though lack urgency for spirited driving. The interior feels premium for the price, with ample space and modern tech. Competitive running costs and a seven-year warranty add appeal, making it a solid choice for those seeking reliable, functional motoring without premium branding.
Is the SsangYong Tivoli Expensive to Run?
The Tivoli’s biggest strength is its affordability, both to buy and run. Fuel economy figures of around 38 to 42 MPG are competitive for the class, helping keep running costs manageable. Insurance groups are reasonable, typically falling into groups 12 to 16, which should keep premiums affordable for most drivers. The standout feature is SsangYong’s impressive seven year, 150,000 mile warranty, offering genuine peace of mind.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
Is the SsangYong Tivoli Practical for Everyday Use?
The Tivoli excels in practical everyday use. The 423 litre boot is generous for the class, easily accommodating a weekly shopping trip or holiday luggage for a family of four. The rear seats fold down to create a large, flat loading area when you need to carry bulky items. The higher ride height makes loading and unloading easier on your back compared to traditional hatchbacks.
Bought our Tivoli two years ago and it’s been brilliant. Really spacious inside, comfortable on long trips, and the warranty gives us confidence. The only downside is it’s not the most fuel efficient, but the low purchase price more than makes up for it.
The SsangYong Tivoli stands out in the competitive compact SUV market by offering exceptional value for money. It packages genuine SUV practicality, a generous warranty, and solid build quality into an affordable and easy to live with package. While it may not have the badge appeal of premium alternatives, it delivers where it counts for everyday family life.