Ihad the opportunity to test drive the all new KGM Ssangyong Torres recently, with the promise that it was “more than an SUV” packed full of all the features you could wish for and more.
So I rolled into Mount Gambier KGM Ssangyong looking for a surprise packet – and boy did it do just that!
I drove the top of the range 1.5l turbocharged petrol Torres Ultimate, which could be best described as a mid-sized SUV for your full-sized weekend.
First impressions are always important, and I was absolutely struck by the gleaming metallic ‘Dandy Blue’ paint that sparkled under Mount Gambier’s spring sun.
The Torres Ultimate has all the bells and whistles – and more – with plenty of attention to detail both inside and out.
It features striking three-dimensional grille and headlights, LED daytime running lights and an elevated ride that completes the SUV look.
I was extremely impressed with the elegant slim dashboard, high-end finishes and ambient interior lighting.
The interior was finished with a classy bronze panelling with the colouring then incorporated through to the stitching, giving it a stylish feel.
There was also a floating centre console, which was just the right height and features two generous cup holders, plus the steering wheel was certainly eye-catching with its unusual shape.
The dashboard’s twin 12.3-inch displays were simple to navigate, with a full easy to use touchscreen and not a knob or button to be seen.
There were heated front and rear seats, 8-way position and 2-way lumbar support for the driver’s side and ventilated front seats to keep you cool on those warm days.
Ultimate by name and Ultimate by nature, the Torres was extremely comfortable to sit in, and rear passengers are also in for a luxurious comfort experience.
Topping off the comfortable, contemporary cabin packed with the latest tech was a sunroof, powered tailgate and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
The reverse camera can be set to rear view or full 360-degree view – or a combination of both – and were very clear and gave a great perspective of your surroundings.
I was particularly impressed by the ample boot space, boasting 1662L, with Ssangyong boasting the Torres offers the best-in-class boot space for a mid-sized SUV.
When it came to driving, the Torres was pretty zippy around town, very responsive under foot and just a genuinely pleasant car to handle.
Parking was a breeze and it had no trouble tackling hills or heading out onto the open road.
Once you adjust to the European style indicator and wiper configuration, it was just a joy to drive, and I must admit it appeared to be a bit of a head turner!
When it comes to the nitty gritty, Ssangyong takes pride in providing safety from the ground up, with the Torres having advanced steel framework – integrating high-tensile steel in 78% of its construction, complemented by advanced hot press forming.
There are also eight airbags fitted for the driver, driver’s knee, passenger, side, curtain and rear seats.
In the way of safety the Torres features an advanced driver-assistance system with standard features include autonomous emergency braking, blind spot detection warning, rear cross traffic collision assist and driver attention alert just to name a few.
The Torres is sold with a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty to further add to the impressive price-point of the vehicle.
Starting at just $38,595 for the entry-level Torres ELX, $43,595 for the Torres Adventure and
$47,595 for the top of the line Torres Ultimate, there is plenty of value to be found across the entire range.
If you’d like to find out more or experience the KGM Ssangyong Torres for yourself, pop in and see the team at Mount Gambier KGM Ssangyong at 203 Jubilee Highway West or contact the dealership on 8725 7999 today.
