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.
For 2021, the GLA-class is a clean-sheet redesign. While it still resembles the previous-generation GLA-class, the new model looks more premium inside and out, which will help it blend with the throng of Mercedes-Benz SUVs that launched for the 2019 and 2020 model years. It shares a platform with the brand's other small offerings, including the slightly larger GLB-class SUV and the entry-level A-class sedan.
Pros Responsive handling, lots of available features, interesting design.
Cons Cramped interior, uncomfortable ride, not as luxurious as a Benz should be.
The GLA has been fully redesigned for 2021.Part of the second GLA generation introduced for 2021.
Pros Smooth ride and comfortable seats Features one of today's best, most advanced infotainment systems Mercedes badge at an affordable price
Cons Most of the GLA's advanced safety features are optional Too much road noise for a luxury SUV Cargo capacity is small compared to Mercedes' GLB
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is the smallest and least expensive SUV in its lineup, and a welcome entry to the brand.
Pros Stylish interior Reasonably well-equipped Roomier rear seats Extensive options
Cons Expensive options Some options should be standard Small cargo area Can’t wait for the GLA45
