Ssangyong has continued its assault on the crossover market with the launch of a Tivoli model that adds extra boot space and a bagful of kit to the company’s best-selling standard version.

The SUV-cum-estate XLV takes its power from a 115hp, 1.6-litre diesel that, although tinny in sound, provides adequate propulsion for most trips.

A variable geometry turbocharger is designed to pep-up performance in the mid-to-low speed range, but things can get shouty when combined with the self-shifting auto gearbox.

The Tivoli XLV boasts a 115hp, 1.6-litre diesel engine and extra legroom

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There is no petrol option, so decision-making simply comes down to a question of transmissions.

Deeper pockets

Budget buyers will look no further than the six-speed manual and front-wheel drive, but those with deeper pockets could be tempted to make the £1,000 jump to the auto ‘box.

It, too, comes with six cogs, though it is left waning in the consumption department.

While the cheaper model claims economy north of 60mpg, auto buyers will have to accept thirstier figures that amount to 45mpg on paper.

Shifts are smooth, though a little notchy, and the rev needle has a tendency to swing around the dial fairly frequently.

Tyres and wind also stir up a cabin racket during faster-paced journeys.

Four-wheel drive

The four-wheel drive system is electronically controlled and directs power solely to the front wheels for the most part.

Should things get slippery, the computer will take note of the spinning shoes and direct torque to those with most traction.

Elsewhere, the new model shares the same 2.6m wheelbase as the standard Tivoli but an extra 245mm of bodywork accounts for the pretty generous boot space and hangs well over the rear axle.

The Tivoli XLV places the driver up quite high

Front seats position the driver fairly high, although grappling with the vague steering and sharp-corner bodyroll can get draining.

Politer driving delivers a more comfortable ride, and it handles potholes and speed bumps without any gripes.

Second-rowers should be happy with the rear legroom, too.

There’s just one trim level, which is the equivalent of a top-spec standard model. It means rollover protection, hill-start assist and a tyre pressure monitoring system are all included in a surprisingly generous package.

Kit

Ssangyong’s comprehensive list of toys continues with a high-res seven-inch screen, satnav and a rear view camera.

Cruise control, rain-sensing wipers and auto headlights are thrown in there, too.

Buyers will have to part with £18,250 for the two-wheel drive manual and £20,500 for the 4×4 auto.