2015 Geneva Motor Show: Ssangyong Tivoli Makes Its Global Debut

South-Korean automobile manufacturer has launched its compact SUV the Tivoli in its home market, at the beginning of 2015. Ssangyong had confirmed this model will be offered in several international markets. Now they have unveiled their Tivoli at 2015 Geneva Motor Show.

The Tivoli has caught the attention of many buyers. It has been a popular compact SUV in Korea, they have already sold over 10,000 units since its launch in January, 2015. Ssangyong is gearing itself up for more orders in the coming months from its international operations.

In Europe, Ssangyong will offer its Tivoli with a 1.6-litre petrol powered engine. It will be capable of generating 121.98 horsepower, along with 157 Nm of peak torque. The South-Korean manufacturer will offer a 1.6-litre turbo diesel engine at a later stage. They will also offer optional two-wheel or four-wheel drive option system for the Tivoli.

Yoo-il Lee, CEO, SsangYong Motor Company, expressed, "This is not just a new car, but a new beginning for SsangYong around the world, Tivoli is our first new car since we introduced the Korando C-segment SUV crossover in 2010, and the first to be launched following the merger of SsangYong and Mahindra & Mahindra in 2011."

He further added, "After some 42 months of development and an investment of 280 million Euros (350 billion Korean won), this is a landmark product, a major achievement, and a significant day in the brand's history. With new 1.6 litre engines and an all new platform, Tivoli is SsangYong's first B-segment SUV, and will add 100,000 units to our annual production."

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. is a major stakeholder in Ssangyong, they already offer the Rexton model in the country. We expect they will bring the Tivoli to India as well, understanding that compact SUV segment is on a rise in the country. They will have to price their offering aggressively to compete in a tough market.