Ssangyong unveils Tivoli compact SUV

Ssangyong is considering a tilt at the fastest growing new car segment in Australia with a city-sized SUV named Tivoli.

The compact unit is under strong consideration for Australia and could go toe-to-toe with new models such as the Jeep Renegade and Mazda CX-3. A spokesman for the brand says the model could go on sale as early as July if its local importer commits to the model.

The South Korean manufacturer unveiled its latest model in Seoul ahead of a global debut at the Geneva motor show in March.

Ssangyong says the model was developed over the course of four years with a view to exporting at least 60,000 examples each year to countries such as Australia.

It says the car will be marketed as "my first SUV to customers who want both style and practicality in their car".

With sharp styling that represents a departure from the brand's recent efforts, high-spec Tivoli models will feature LED daytime running lamps, alloy wheels, a sunroof and roof rails to tempt customers.

A sporty interior with a new flat-bottomed steering wheel is available in black, beige or red tones that join a 7.0-inch touch screen infotainment system with a reversing camera and HDMI input for portable devices.

The Tivoli's dashboard features a compact digital display, and can be customised with six different coloured backing lights.

Powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 93kW and 157Nm, the Tivoli uses around 8.3L/100km in six-speed manual form. An Aisin-sourced automatic transmission will be available as an option, with both variants driving the front wheels.

Luxury extras include a tyre pressure monitoring system, dual-zone climate control, a ventilated driver's seat and heated first and second row seats.

The car has seven airbags that complement four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic stability control, thought there is no sign of autonomous emergency braking or lane departure warning systems.

The Tivoli is likely to undercut rivals such as the Holden Trax if it goes on sale locally, which would put its entry-level price close to the $20,000 mark.

Full pricing and local specifications will be available closer to its local launch.

Ssangyong Tivoli pricing and specifications:

Price: Not yet confirmed

On sale: Not yet confirmed

Engine: 1.6-litre 4-cylinder petrol

Power: 93kW

Torque: 157Nm

Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic

Fuel use: 8.3L/100km