SsangYong releases Tivoli images
When the X100 concept car took shape as the XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure concepts at the Paris Motor Show in October 2014, we could analyze two major changes happening at SsangYong under Mahindra & Mahindra’s ownership. First, the fourth largest Korean manufacturer is boosting their plans in a bid to become a global brand, and the second is the adoption of a new signature design language. The first pictures of the concept- turned production model have been released over SsangYong UK’s Facebook page recently and has been christened as Tivoli.
The car seems take a rather different track compared to the current generation of SsangYong vehicles, with a more evolved design and detailing. The pictures make it clear the production model does justice to the concept models. Inside, the design of the dash is classy and up-market, a flat-bottom steering adds a sporty touch. A more functional dash compared to the current crop, it will include a central touchscreen, Bluetooth audio, a rear-view camera and dual-zone climate control. Also, the Tivoli comes with 7 airbags including a driver’s knee airbag, curtain airbag, and side airbags. Though, the Tivoli is a compact SUV, SsangYong offers a very competitive luggage space of 423litres.
The rest of the details will be divulged in January when they launch the SUV in South Korea. A 1.6-litre engine in both petrol and diesel, mated to automatic and manual transmissions is expected. The Tivoli is expected in 4WD and 2WD variants depending on the market.
A Google search explains Tivoli is an ancient Italian town in Lazio. As the manufacturer is planning expansion to international markets, especially the U.S. market, a universal name makes perfect sense for the new SsangYong product. Mahindra introduced the SsangYong Rexton in India and more models are expected, which means there is a chance of the Tivoli reaching our shores. The SsangYong kid will go up against the Ford EcoSport, and the Renault Duster (Nissan Terrano) once the manufacturer launches the compact SUV in India by the end of 2015.
