Ssangyong Tivoli : Full details of new baby SUV revealed

The full unveiling of the Tivoli comes around three weeks after Ssangyong released a front three-quarter sketch of the production version and a snapshot of its interior.

We now know the Ssangyong Tivoli measures 4195mm long, 1795mm wide, 1590mm tall and rides on a 2600mm wheelbase, positioning it between the Nissan Juke and Holden Trax in terms of its exterior dimensions, while its 423-litre boot is closer in size to the larger Nissan Qashqai. The rear bench can also be folded flat to create extra cargo carrying space.

Ssangyong has confirmed the Tivoli will be available with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 93kW of power at 6000rpm and 157Nm of torque at 4600rpm.

The engine can be teamed with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions that send drive to the front wheels and deliver combined cycle fuel consumption of 8.3 and 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres respectively.

A 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine will become available later in 2015 along with an all-wheel-drive option.

The Tivoli comes standard with Ssangyong’s Smart Steer system, which offers three steering weightings: Normal, Comfort, and Sport.

LED daytime running lights, 16- to 18-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, auto headlights and wipers, smart key entry, dual-zone climate control, a sunroof, and a 7.0-inch infotainment display make for an impressive equipment list, while seven airbags (dual front, side, curtains, and driver’s knee) and electronic stability control headline the Tivoli’s standard safety package.

Ssangyong’s Australian distributor Ateco Automotive has high interest in the Tivoli, and hopes to launch it as early as July/August if the business case adds up.

Local specifications will be announced after the model is confirmed for our market. Expect prices to start in the low $20,000s.