The SsangYong Tivoli (facelift 2019) 1.5 T-GDi AWD represents a significant iteration of SsangYong’s compact SUV offering, produced from October 2019 through 2023. This variant, positioned as a mid-range option within the Tivoli lineup, aimed to provide a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability. The facelift brought updated styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced safety features to the already popular Tivoli, which itself was based on the SsangYong XIV concepts and aimed to compete in the increasingly crowded European and Asian crossover market. The addition of all-wheel drive and the turbocharged 1.5-liter engine broadened the Tivoli’s appeal to buyers seeking a more versatile and capable vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SsangYong |
| Model | Tivoli |
| Generation | Tivoli (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T-GDi (163 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | October, 2019 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G15DTF |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390-1472 kg (3064.43 – 3245.2 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 458-540 kg (1009.72 – 1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 311 l (10.98 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1002 l (35.39 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4225 mm (166.34 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1621 mm (63.82 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 745 mm (29.33 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 178 mm (7.01 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.5° |
| Departure angle | 27.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tivoli 1.5 T-GDi AWD is the G15DTF engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single-scroll turbocharger and intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to responsive acceleration in everyday driving situations. The engine features a 9.5:1 compression ratio and a four-valve-per-cylinder configuration. The drivetrain employs a permanent all-wheel-drive system, where the front wheels are primarily driven, and the rear wheels are engaged as needed via an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. This system enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The 6-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option available for this configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The Tivoli 1.5 T-GDi AWD offers a noticeable step up in performance compared to lower-powered versions of the Tivoli. The turbocharger provides a good amount of low-end torque, making it easy to navigate city streets and merge onto highways. While not a sports SUV, the 163 hp engine provides adequate power for most driving scenarios. The all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence on slippery surfaces, providing enhanced grip and stability. The manual transmission allows for greater driver engagement, but the gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. Compared to the base engine options, the 1.5 T-GDi AWD delivers a more refined and capable driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 T-GDi AWD trim typically included features such as alloy wheels, roof rails, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Standard safety equipment included ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on practicality and durability.
Chassis & Braking
The Tivoli 1.5 T-GDi AWD utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel. The all-wheel-drive system adds weight to the vehicle, but the suspension is tuned to compensate for this, providing a stable and controlled driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The SsangYong Tivoli 1.5 T-GDi AWD was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability. It was often compared to rivals such as the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, and Kia Stonic. The Tivoli offered a more spacious interior and a more robust all-wheel-drive system than some of its competitors. Fuel economy was competitive, with combined fuel consumption figures around 6.8-7.5 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 33-31 mpg). Reliability was generally considered average, with some reports of minor issues with the infotainment system and electrical components.
Legacy
The SsangYong Tivoli 1.5 T-GDi AWD has established itself as a solid and dependable compact SUV in the used car market. The G15DTF engine has proven to be relatively reliable, with proper maintenance. The all-wheel-drive system remains a valuable asset for buyers in regions with harsh winters or challenging road conditions. While SsangYong has faced financial challenges, the Tivoli remains a popular choice for those seeking a practical and affordable SUV with a good level of equipment and capability. The Tivoli’s success helped to revitalize the SsangYong brand and establish it as a credible player in the European and Asian automotive markets.
