KGM ACTYON (2025) Review
Move over, Sportage. There’s a new contender in town. KGM (formerly SsangYong) has thrown its hat into the compact SUV ring with the 2025 KGM Actyon, and it’s surprisingly... impressive.
We took a spin at the UK launch and walked away with mixed but mostly positive impressions. So, is this new C+ class SUV enough to tempt buyers away from mainstream favourites like the Kia Sportage or Hyundai Tucson? Let’s dive in.
It’s well-priced, well-equipped, and well-thought-out. This isn’t the KGM (or SsangYong) of old—it’s a confident, mature new player finally starting to punch above its weight.
One Trim. One Price. One Strategy.
KGM is keeping it simple: the Actyon launches in the UK with just one trim, priced at £37,795. And here’s the kicker—it’s fully loaded. Everything you’d usually find on the options list? Already fitted.
There’s no hybrid. No plug-in. No diesel. Just a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, producing 161 bhp and paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. It’ll tow up to 1.5 tonnes, too.
It’s a bold choice in 2025’s increasingly electrified world, but it seems to be working… kind of.
Driving Impressions
On the road, the Actyon feels far more mature than its badge history might suggest.
Pros:
Smooth, quiet ride in most conditions
Minimal steering correction needed—much improved from the Torres
Confident on motorways and surprisingly refined
Cons:
Fuel economy is the weakest link, officially rated at 33 mpg WLTP
The engine needs a good push for overtakes
A little unsettled over rougher tarmac
The Actyon’s ride is largely composed and comfy, but it can feel a bit firm on broken roads. Still, it’s a noticeable step forward from the Torres and shows KGM is learning fast.
Space & Practicality
Here’s where the Actyon shines. The boot is cavernous—arguably bigger and better shaped than many rivals, and with a wide, flat opening and very little load lip. Add in underfloor storage, and you’ve got a seriously practical SUV.
Rear seat space is generous too, with ample legroom (even behind taller drivers), soft-touch materials, rear USB-C ports, and a sliding passenger seat control—a nice touch for chauffeuring taller back-seat passengers.
Tech & Interior
You get a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and matching 12.3-inch digital driver display, both snappy and neatly integrated. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and TomTom-based sat nav come as standard.
Everything—from climate control to driving assistance—is handled via the touchscreen, which may frustrate some. That said, there’s a customisable star button on the wheel to shortcut to your favourites.
Interior Highlights:
No fingerprint-prone piano black here—thankfully replaced by a carbon-effect trim
Soft-touch materials and a faux-wood dashboard give a surprising premium feel
Wireless phone charging, dual USB-C ports, and plenty of storage
It’s one of the best interiors we’ve seen from a brand many dismissed not long ago. Seriously.
Is It All Sunshine?
Not quite. The biggest sticking point is fuel efficiency. That 1.5L turbo petrol might be fine for now, but with no hybrid or EV options, it’s lagging behind market trends. KGM is taking advantage of a regulatory loophole that exempts low-volume brands from stringent emissions targets, but that’s not sustainable long-term.
Also, while the Actyon feels refined, it's still fighting for attention in a crowded market full of established players offering electrified drivetrains.
Verdict: Should You Consider the 2025 KGM Actyon?
Yes—if you want a fully-loaded SUV with great space, strong features, and don’t mind a petrol-only powertrain.
It’s well-priced, well-equipped, and well-thought-out. This isn’t the KGM (or SsangYong) of old—it’s a confident, mature new player finally starting to punch above its weight.
Skip it if: You prioritise hybrid or electric tech, or want razor-sharp fuel economy.
Buy it if: You want a no-fuss, practical SUV with a surprisingly premium cabin, a generous spec sheet, and a healthy underdog story.
What We’d Like to See Next
An electric version. Honestly, the Actyon feels like it’s begging for a battery. With its solid platform, generous interior space, and comfort-oriented setup, an EV variant could be a game-changer. And if KGM’s paying attention to the UK market—as they say they are—it could very well be on the way.
To find out the latest lease prices for a KGM Actyon, Click here.
