Ssangyong Tivoli Sport R: Serious contender
Trivia:
Tivoli when read backwards is “I lov it”, but the crossover took its name from the Italian town of Tivoli, Lazio.
Korean automaker SsangYong is making the country’s compact crossover segment more exciting with its Tivoli Sport R.
The Tivoli Sport R leads the list of exciting vehicles being offered by the Korean brand that is being distributed in the country by the famous Berjaya Motor Philippines Inc.
In Cebu, the SsangYong dealership is being handled by Joeson Motors Company Inc.
The Tivoli Sport R is a smart, modern urban vehicle that is expected to appeal to the younger generation.
The highlight of the crossover is its bold styling that makes it stand out.
The design adopts the “Nature-born 3 Motion” design code. This new design ethos, according to SsangYong, aims to deliver maximum value and enjoyment to customers while drawing inspiration from nature.
The slim, wide grille and bumper with built-in honeycomb air intake project a rugged feel while projector headlamps with daytime running lights enhance the front end.
The two-tone treatment in the front extends to the wheel arches, side sills and rear, further enhancing the Tivoli’s intent to stand out. Another thing we liked were the blacked out A, B and C pillars, along with the rear upper garnish, which render the roof as a floating panel, thus signifying a youthful vibe.
Capping off its sporty look is the 18-inch wheels in Brilliant Black finish.
The Tivoli doesn’t only look exciting in Cebu roads, it is also fun to drive.
Under the hood is a Motivated by a 1.6-liter Dual-CVVT gasoline engine that is mated to a AISIN six-speed automatic transmission that features a direct-control solenoid valve designed to deliver the shift response of a dual-clutch transmission. The engine produces 128 PS of power and 160 NM of torque.
In Cebu’s ultimate car testing field, the Transcentral Highway, the Tivoli handles well, zipping through corners with ease and taking the steep climbs confidently.
CDN PHOTO/BRIAN J. OCHOA
The MacPherson front and a compact torsion beam rear suspension layout is responsible for the impressive handling of the Tivoli.
Inside, the Tivoli carries on with the fresh and active feel. The Sport R’s interior is made more exciting with its red accent. There’s also a pinch of premium feel with the soft touch materials on parts of the dashboard, leather seats and a smart user interface.
There is an abundance of large storage areas located at the side and center panels as well as the center arm console. There is even an upper tray on the dashboard that can accommodate a wide variety of items such gear and gadgets, making the all-new Tivoli perfect for the mobile and active crowd.
The rear cargo area is designed for easy access for up to three golf bags even. At 423-liters of volume, it is the largest in its class.
There are several features , though, we think the Tivoli needs such as xenon or LED headlights to replace the halogen setup, a better sounding audio system and a telescopic-adjusting steering wheel.
But would these be deal-breakers?
Considering the price difference against its competitors, we really don’t think so.
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