Bigger is better apparently. Which is why we have extra-large bacon double cheeseburgers, smartphones that no longer fit easily into a trouser pocket and cruise ships the size of small cities.
But when it comes to towing and holiday packing, bigger really is better, and that’s something SsangYong (now renamed KGM) cottoned onto with its Tivoli small SUV for towing, which it extended by 24cm to create the Tivoli XLV.
So, is a used SsangYong Tivoli XLV the tow car equivalent of the mega meal deal and is it worth looking at if you’re after one of the best used cars for towing a caravan?
What’s a Tivoli XLV like inside?
As far as small SUVs are concerned, theSsangYong Tivoli XLV is one of the roomier options on the market. There’s good space for the occupants of both the driver and front passenger seats, and finding a comfortable driving position is easy, which could be a consideration when you’re looking for a tow car.
One thing to be aware of is the fact that there’s no footrest for the driver’s left foot, which could make longer drives wearisome.
Those in the rear seat area are pretty well catered for, too, because there’s decent head- and legroom for three reasonably sized adults. The person in the centre seat will have a central tunnel to straddle, but it isn’t very big so won’t impinge on comfort too much.
However, one thing that is reasonably big is the boot area, which is especially the case in the XLV model – all of the car’s extra 24cm of length is behind the rear wheels, which means there’s plenty of space to pack all of your caravan essentials. The loading lip is quite high though, so make sure that isn’t a problem for you, especially if you have a bad back!
Standard equipment is strong in all versions, but there are plenty of top-spec ELX-trimmed examples out there, and they don’t cost much of a premium over lesser cars.
These come with kit such as parking sensors all round, leather interior trim and dual-zone climate control. Don’t forget to add in those useful towing gadgets or accessories like the best caravan towing mirrors and you’ll be all set.
How does it drive?
The 1.6-litre diesel is the model tow car buyers should aim for, because while it produces just 113bhp, it also generates 221 lb ft of torque, which is much better for towing duties.
Performance is pretty lackadaisical, but the Tivoli feels pretty secure when towing, although it does feel affected when passing lorries or when slowing down – the trailer can move around a bit.
The manual handbrake also needs a good tug to hold the car securely, so you’ll need to make sure that it’s properly adjusted at all times.
If you choose a four-wheel-drive example, traction when pulling away will be good, even on slippery surfaces.
The Tivoli is a reasonably unassuming partner when driving solo, but that also means there’s nothing particularly engaging about it when behind the wheel.
Body roll is kept pretty well in check, but the ride can feel too firm on rough roads. The steering is devoid of feedback though. Still, an average of 57.6mpg isn’t bad.
What will it tow?
- Kerbweight: 1505kg
- Towing limit: 1500kg
- Noseweight limit: 80kg
- 85% match: 1279kg
Running costs
- Insurance group: 15
- Annual VED: £200
- Average economy: 57.6mpg
- Full service: £174
(Servicing price supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262, www.servicingstop.co.uk)
Trouble spots
The SsangYong Tivoli has been subject to three recalls. In the first recall, 1433 examples were returned to dealers to have a fuel hose replaced. Then 3241 examples were recalled to have new shielding and a new clip fitted to a fuel pipe. Finally, a fuel pipe was found to be vulnerable to cracking, so had to be replaced.
Full details of the recalls can be found at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk.
What to pay
- High: Price: £4800; Model: 1.6 e-XDi ELX; Year: 2016; Miles: 98,000
- Sweet spot: Price: £11,000; Model: 1.6D Ultimate; Year: 2019; Miles: 18,800
- Low: Price: £9700; Model: 1.6D ELX; Year: 2018; Miles: 23,000
Verdict
The SsangYong Tivoli XLV is one of those cars that will do a job for you, but little else.
It’s a car you can tow with, get out of, and instantly forget about. It’ll carry you, your family, and lots of your stuff around, and running costs are pretty reasonable too, but is it the sort of car you’ll engage with, cherish and care for?
Not a chance. And that’s a big thing to consider.
Don’t miss our tips on how to make towing a caravan more affordable either.
Alternative to consider
Ford Kuga (2013-2020)
If you want a car that can tow capably and is also fun to drive, then the Ford Kuga is a decent place to look. It’s a strong and stable tow car that doesn’t get flustered by crosswinds or passing large vehicles. The Kuga is also well equipped, and easy to service, partly because there’s bound to be a Ford dealer near you, wherever you are. However, it doesn’t have the sort of space a Tivoli XLV buyer might expect.
You can also take a look at our review of the more recent 2022 Ford Kuga 2.5 FHEV 190PS ST-Line X Edition FWD Auto to get an idea of what we thought of it when we put it to the test.
Škoda Octavia Estate (2013-2020)
No, the Octavia isn’t an SUV, but it is nevertheless a highly competent towing machine, on top of which it has a simply enormous amount of passenger and boot space. It’s also available with a DSG automatic gearbox, which can take the strain out of towing. The Octavia excels when not towing, too, because it’s good to drive on a twisty road, and comfortable on a long motorway slog. It really is a one-size-fits-all towing choice.
Interested in a more recent model? Then take a look at our review of the 2023 Škoda Octavia Estate 2.0 TDI 150PS SE L DSG.
Suzuki SX4 S-Cross (2013-2021)
A car has to be pretty good to win its class in the Tow Car Awards, but that’s what the Suzuki did back in 2017. It has a comparatively light towing limit of 1200kg, but manages to pull its 85% match of 1074kg confidently. It’s also pretty stable during brisk lane-change manoeuvres. You’ll enjoy driving it when it isn’t hitched up, too, because it’s quite good fun. That said, the hard ride might prove a little tiresome after a while.
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