The 2022 Taos is a completely new model in VW showrooms. Leading up to its official reveal, we learned about its engine specs and size details as well as its handsome design and available features.
Pros Huge back seat for its subcompact designation, generous cargo storage, really good fuel-economy figures.
Cons Acceleration isn't as spunky as some rivals, some chintzy cabin materials, maladroit dual-clutch automatic.
Pros Comfortable ride Great gas mileage Spacious, supportive seats Excellent cargo capacity
Cons Some cheap cabin materials Unrefined transmissions
All-new two-row subcompact SUV that slots below the Tiguan.
Pros Sharp handling and smooth driving character Comfortable interior that's easy to get in and out of Big cargo area for a little SUV Impressive technology features
Cons Transmission can be slow to frustratingly slow to downshift Noticeable road and engine noise at highway speeds
The SsangYong Tivoli is central to this aim, its built on an all-new platform to compete with cars such as the Nissan Juke, Ford EcoSport and the Vauxhall Mokka in the ever-popular (and still growing) small crossover market. While the Tivoli can’t match the striking styling of the Juke, this is arguably the best-looking SsangYong yet, and the company is claiming to have taken massive strides on the inside, too. The car will also come loaded with kit, including an optional seven-inch central screen on the dashboard.
Pros Spacious for its size Generous standard equipment Cheap
Cons Not as striking as the Juke Quality falls behind the best in class Bland to drive
The Ssangyong Tivoli competes in the small SUV market, alongside rivals such as the Nissan Juke and Kia Soul. These cars offer the look and feel of an off-roader, but with performance and running costs more akin to a family hatchback. Do bear in mind, however, they’re better suited to on-road driving than traversing muddy lanes. That’s certainly the case with the Tivoli, although unlike its aforementioned rivals, you can order it with four-wheel drive on higher trims. A 1.6-litre petrol or 1.6-litre diesel is available throughout the range, combined with a six-speed manual gearbox. A six-speed automatic is available for both engines on all but the entry-level SE.
You can put aside your reservations about the SsangYong badge, because the Tivoli is a thoroughly capable small crossover for the money. It’s not the most stylish inside or out, and it won’t win awards for ride comfort or refinement, but you get a lot of space and kit for little financial outlay. The latter two points are especially true of the Tivoli XLV, but it’s more expensive, and we'd go for the two-wheel-drive version to save some money. The standard Tivoli is decent to drive, while with the diesel engine and is by far the best on-road car SsangYong has built yet.
