The SsangYong Tivoli (facelift, introduced in October 2019) 1.6 e-XDi, producing 136 horsepower, represented a key offering in SsangYong’s compact SUV lineup. This variant, available through December 2020, aimed to balance fuel efficiency with reasonable performance for the European and Korean markets, where the Tivoli found its primary customer base. Positioned as a mid-range option, it slotted between the base petrol models and the more expensive, fully-equipped trims. The facelift brought updated styling and improved technology to the original Tivoli, launched in 2015, aiming to increase its competitiveness in the crowded crossover segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SsangYong |
| Model | Tivoli |
| Generation | Tivoli (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 e-XDi (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 2019 |
| End of production | December, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 146 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 174 km/h (108.12 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 97.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 215.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D16DTF |
| Engine displacement | 1597 cm3 (97.45 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390-1477 kg (3064.43 – 3256.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 483-570 kg (1064.83 – 1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 311 l (10.98 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1002 l (35.39 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 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) | 156 mm (6.14 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 18° |
| Departure angle | 27° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 14° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| 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 this Tivoli variant is the D16DTF 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of SsangYong’s ‘e-XDi’ series, known for its focus on efficiency and low-end torque. The D16DTF utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance, boosting power output to 136 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. The engine features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, contributing to its durability. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its balance of fuel economy and driver engagement. While an automatic transmission was available on other Tivoli trims, it wasn’t offered with this specific engine configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 e-XDi with the manual gearbox provided a practical and economical driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it well-suited for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the petrol versions, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy and a more relaxed cruising experience. However, it lacked the responsiveness of the higher-output engines available in the Tivoli range. The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency rather than outright acceleration, resulting in a 0-60 mph time of around 11-12 seconds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 e-XDi typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels added features like a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and leather upholstery. The interior generally featured durable materials and a functional design, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Tivoli’s chassis employed a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly engaging for enthusiastic drivers. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The electric power steering offered light and easy steering, making it convenient for urban driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The SsangYong Tivoli 1.6 e-XDi was generally well-received by critics as a value-for-money option in the compact SUV segment. Its fuel efficiency and low running costs were highlighted as key strengths. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Compared to the petrol versions, the diesel offered superior fuel economy but came with a higher purchase price. Against rivals like the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, and Kia Soul, the Tivoli offered a more spacious interior and a longer warranty, but its brand recognition was lower.
Legacy
The D16DTF engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. Common issues included diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly on vehicles used primarily for short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of quality diesel fuel were crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. On the used car market, the Tivoli 1.6 e-XDi represents a budget-friendly option for those seeking a practical and economical SUV. Its relatively low running costs and spacious interior continue to appeal to buyers looking for a no-frills, dependable vehicle.
