KGM Actyon – hybrid happiness

KGM may be a car company whose name doesn’t instantly set bells ringing, but it’s far from being a new kid on the block.

Originally known as SsangYong, the Korean manufacturer has rebranded, refreshed its range and issued a wake-up call to rivals.

Now it’s hoping the new Actyon Hybrid will lure family SUV buyers away from popular choices from the likes of Nissan, Ford, Kia and Hyundai.

The Actyon – a title meant to reflect the concepts of Act Young and Act On – arrived as a coupe SUV early last year to celebrate KGM’s 70^th anniversary.

It was launched with a single 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine option, but now has the same unit working alongside an electric motor – the upshot being an average fuel figure of 46.4 miles per gallon as opposed to the standard model’s 33.1mpg.

Styling-wise it’s a model that polarises views. Either way, whether you think its design shines or stinks the Actyon Hybrid has plenty going for it.

With its daytime running lights inspired by the three line symbols in each corner of the Korean flag it definitely catches the eye – one thing is certain, this is a car with character.

The hybrid system, ensuring the Actyon has a total output of 201bhp, enables the car to run on electric power for short periods, making it quieter and smoother than you might expect from a family SUV of this size.

And on the open road there’s more than enough performance for overtaking and motorway cruising, though the petrol engine does sound a bit harsh when you ask for maximum wallop.

The emphasis is on comfort, the suspension coping well with broken urban roads and potholes, while the light steering and parking camera makes squeezing into tight spaces fairly straightforward despite the KGM’s dimensions.

Step inside the cabin and a pair of sharp 12.3-inch digital displays dominate the dashboard, though the main touchscreen is disappointingly slow to respond. But the overall quality of the fit and fittings is of a high standard.

Providing a premium experience at a more affordable price than their rivals is a priority for KGM and to that end the Actyon brings the likes of leather and suede upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel as standard.

Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, sat nav, wireless smartphone connectivity and adaptive cruise control plus a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems are also included, leaving little need to delve into the options bin.

Space is another strong point. Five adults can travel comfortably with plenty of rear legroom, while the 668-litre boot will easily swallow shopping or sports gear and family holiday luggage. Practicality hasn’t been sacrificed in pursuit of the coupe-style silhouette.

There are a few compromises though, notably some interior plastics that remind you this is a value-focused offering rather than a luxury SUV and clearly one that may not suit buyers seeking more dynamic performance.

That said, with a price point of just under £39,000, the Actyon Hybrid offers generous equipment, impressive practicality and respectable fuel economy, backed by a five-year/100,000-mile warranty.

When rivals with similar specification can easily cost several £K more, it begins to look like a very sensible buy.

For buyers willing to look beyond the badge, the KGM Actyon Hybrid deserves a place on the shortlist – it may not be class-leading in every department, but as an efficient all-round family SUV it shows the KGM revival is really gathering momentum.