The automotive world rarely surprises with a vehicle that combines luxury, practicality, and affordability in such a balanced package. The 2025 KGM Actyon, a compact premium midsize SUV, aims to shake up the C+ class segment with its impressive array of features and competitive pricing. Launched in the UK at £37,950, this SUV is available in a single, fully loaded trim. Let’s dive into the details to explore why the Actyon might just be the best new car you haven’t heard of.

Key Specifications

• Engine: 1.5L Turbo Petrol
• Horsepower: 161 bhp
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters
• Towing Capacity: 1.5 tons
• Fuel Economy: 33 MPG (WLTP)
• Price: £37,950

These specifications highlight a well-rounded vehicle suitable for both urban and rural environments. The 1.5L turbo petrol engine strikes a balance between efficiency and performance, while the towing capacity ensures versatility for hauling trailers or small caravans.

Exterior Design and Boot Space

The KGM Actyon’s exterior design is understated yet functional, focusing on practicality without compromising on aesthetics. The streamlined design integrates well with modern tastes, featuring clean lines and a bold front grille that exudes confidence. The alloy wheels and LED lighting elements further enhance its premium appeal.

The boot space, in particular, sets it apart from competitors like the Kia Sportage. With a wide, easily accessible opening and minimal load lip, loading and unloading cargo is effortless. The boot’s generous 500 liters of space accommodates suitcases, sports equipment, or even camping gear. There’s additional underfloor storage for smaller items, enhancing its practicality for families and adventurers alike. Foldable rear seats expand the cargo area further, making it ideal for larger loads or road trips.

Interior Features and Technology

Premium Cabin Experience

Stepping inside, the Actyon impresses with a surprisingly upscale interior for its price point. The cabin features high-quality materials, including a carbon-fiber-effect trim that resists fingerprints, soft-touch rubberized surfaces, and wood accents for a refined aesthetic. The seats are upholstered in premium leather, offering excellent comfort for long journeys. Ambient lighting adds a touch of sophistication, customizable to match your mood.

Infotainment and Displays

• Driver Display: 12.3-inch digital driver information display provides crisp graphics and vital driving information.
• Infotainment System: 12.3-inch touchscreen with:
  • Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for seamless smartphone integration.
  • TomTom-based navigation for precise and reliable guidance.
  • Screen-controlled climate settings for modern convenience.

While the lack of physical buttons may polarize some users, the intuitive interface and customizable shortcuts (such as a dedicated star button) simplify navigation through the system. Voice commands further enhance ease of use, allowing drivers to stay focused on the road.

Convenience Features

• Heated steering wheel for cold mornings.
• Wireless charging pad for hassle-free phone charging.
• Dual USB-C ports (front and rear) ensure all passengers stay connected.
• Central armrest with storage doubles as a practical feature.
• Alcantara-style headliner with rear sun blinds enhances rear passenger comfort.
• Rear seats with generous legroom and headroom cater to taller passengers.

Attention to detail extends to thoughtful touches like seatback storage pockets, integrated cup holders, and rear air vents, making every ride enjoyable.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Engine and Transmission

The 1.5L turbo petrol engine delivers 161 bhp, paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is adequate for city commuting and highway cruising, though overtaking maneuvers may require planning. The paddle shifters add a touch of sportiness, allowing drivers to manually select gears when desired, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Ride and Handling

The suspension setup offers a comfortable ride under most conditions, soaking up small bumps and uneven surfaces with ease. However, on particularly rough roads, the stiffness becomes noticeable. Compared to its predecessor, the SsangYong Torres, the Actyon demonstrates significant improvements in stability and steering precision. The electric power steering is light for urban maneuverability but firms up at higher speeds for better control.

For those seeking occasional adventures, the Actyon’s ground clearance and sturdy chassis ensure it can handle light off-road conditions, making it a versatile option for families and explorers.

Fuel Efficiency

At 33 MPG (WLTP), the Actyon’s fuel economy is modest for its class. The absence of hybrid or electrified options limits its appeal to eco-conscious buyers. However, for those prioritizing a traditional petrol engine with proven reliability, it remains a competitive choice. Driving conservatively can help achieve optimal fuel efficiency, making it an economical option for daily use.

Safety and Assistance Features

The Actyon comes equipped with an extensive suite of safety features, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike:

• Adaptive cruise control for relaxed highway driving.
• Lane-keeping assist to prevent unintentional lane departures.
• Emergency braking with pedestrian detection for urban safety.
• Blind-spot monitoring to enhance awareness of surrounding traffic.

What sets it apart is the ease of customization: most driver assistance systems can be disabled or adjusted via a simple swipe-down menu on the infotainment screen, catering to user preferences. Additionally, the robust build quality contributes to its impressive safety credentials, offering excellent crash protection.

Comparison with Rivals

Kia Sportage

• Price: Slightly higher.
• Interior: Comparable, but the Actyon offers more premium materials and thoughtful touches.
• Technology: Both vehicles feature advanced infotainment systems, but the Actyon’s customizable controls stand out.

SsangYong Torres

• Price: Similar starting price.
• Driving Experience: The Actyon offers a more refined and stable ride, particularly at higher speeds.
• Interior: The Actyon’s cabin materials and design feel more upscale, appealing to those seeking luxury at a budget.

Potential Improvements

While the Actyon excels in many areas, there are a few drawbacks worth noting:

1. Fuel Economy: Introducing a hybrid or fully electric variant would greatly enhance its appeal to eco-conscious buyers.
2. All-Screen Controls: Adding traditional physical buttons for essential functions like climate control would improve usability for some users.
3. Ride Comfort: Slight refinement in suspension tuning could address its occasional crashiness on uneven roads.
4. Power Options: Offering a higher-powered engine variant could cater to performance enthusiasts.

Final Verdict

The 2025 KGM Actyon is a compelling entrant in the compact premium SUV market. With its premium interior, practical design, and generous equipment list, it offers excellent value for money. While its fuel economy and lack of electrified options may deter some buyers, the Actyon’s overall package makes it a strong contender in its class. For those seeking a stylish and well-equipped SUV at a competitive price, the Actyon is worth serious consideration.

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