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
3.5/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3
Comfort & Interior
3.5
Running Costs
4
Practicality
4.5
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 spacious family vehicle that won’t break the bank? The SsangYong Turismo might just be the practical solution you’ve been searching for. This large MPV offers genuine seven seat capacity and impressive value for money in a market dominated by more expensive alternatives. While it may not have the premium badge appeal of rivals like the Ford S-Max or Seat Alhambra, the Turismo makes up for it with generous space, decent equipment levels, and competitive pricing. The diesel engine provides reasonable fuel economy for such a large vehicle, making it an attractive option for families who need maximum space without premium running costs. SsangYong’s improving build quality and extended warranty package add extra peace of mind to the ownership experience. Whether you’re looking at taxi work, large family transport, or simply need a vehicle that can handle seven passengers comfortably, the Turismo delivers practical motoring at a sensible price point that’s hard to match elsewhere in the market.
What's the SsangYong Turismo Like to Drive?
The SsangYong Turismo focuses on utility rather than excitement behind the wheel. The 2.2-litre diesel engine produces around 178 horsepower, which is adequate for moving the sizeable MPV and its potential seven occupants. Acceleration isn’t thrilling, with 0-60 mph taking around 10.5 seconds, but there’s enough torque for comfortable motorway cruising and overtaking when needed.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.2L 4-cylinder Diesel
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Power Output
178 bhp
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0-60 mph
10.5 seconds
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MPG Combined
35 - 40 mpg
- Boot Space
- 875 litres (5 seats) / 130 litres (7 seats)
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the SsangYong Turismo: Comfort & Features
Step inside the Turismo and you’ll find a spacious, practical cabin designed with families in mind. The dashboard layout is straightforward and functional, though the materials used feel budget-oriented compared to premium rivals. The infotainment system includes smartphone connectivity, and while it’s not the slickest system available, it covers the essential bases adequately.
The SsangYong Turismo prioritises utility over thrill, delivering spacious seven-seater practicality at competitive pricing. Its 2.2-litre diesel offers adequate torque for cruising and overtaking, though acceleration feels restrained. Comfortable seating and refined interior quality offset modest performance, while low running costs and generous cargo space make it a compelling family hauler. However, its lack of dynamic flair and premium feel limit its appeal beyond budget-conscious buyers seeking value over excitement.
Is the SsangYong Turismo Expensive to Run?
The Turismo’s strongest suit is its value proposition and reasonable running costs. Fuel economy sits around 35-40 mpg in real-world driving, which is respectable for such a large vehicle. Insurance groups are moderate, typically falling in the lower bands due to the car’s sensible nature and modest performance figures.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
How Practical Is the SsangYong Turismo?
The Turismo excels in the practicality department, which is exactly what matters most in this segment. The 875-litre boot with five seats in use is genuinely cavernous, easily accommodating holiday luggage or large shopping trips. Even with all seven seats occupied, there’s still 130 litres of space for essential items, which beats many rivals.
We needed a proper seven-seater that wouldn’t cost a fortune and the Turismo fitted perfectly. It’s not fancy but it’s incredibly practical and reliable. The kids love the space and we can fit everything for our holidays without any trouble.
The SsangYong Turismo stands out in the MPV market by offering exceptional value and genuine practicality. It provides seven-seat capability that actually works for adults, combined with impressive cargo space and budget-friendly running costs. While it may lack the refinement and badge appeal of German rivals, it delivers where it matters most for family buyers.