The most compact crossover in the Korean brand KGM's lineup entered the Russian market in 2025, although its history began back in 2015. Since then, the model has undergone three updates, the latest in 2023, but the feeling of "novelty" of the Tivoli still raises reservations.
Despite its solid age, the Tivoli does not look outdated against the backdrop of the stream of fresh Chinese SUVs. Its design rather stands out due to non-standard solutions. The front part is memorable for the lowered trapezoid of the radiator grille and the blank jumper in the usual place, as well as the original three-level fog lights. The rear attracts with the shape of the fifth door with embossed stampings and unusual lights. Bright details such as the red plug of the towing hook and contrasting decorative elements under the edge of the hood add individuality to the image. At the same time, behind the spectacular appearance lies a lack of modern options: LED optics are only available in the top version, there is no servo drive for the trunk, and a sunroof or panoramic roof cannot be ordered even for an extra charge.
If the exterior is still trying to look up-to-date, the interior immediately returns to the middle of the last decade. The analog instrument panel, the abundance of physical buttons, and the compact eight-inch multimedia screen clearly indicate the age of the architecture. But the ergonomics here are top-notch: all controls are at hand, adjusted quickly and without immersion in touch menus. This approach will surely be appreciated by supporters of classics, while fans of large displays and minimalism will consider the interior outdated. The Tivoli clearly lacks a balance between "analog" and modernity.
The functionality of the multimedia system is modest, but the essentials are present. You can control the radio, audio, screen brightness, and connect a smartphone. Support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is implemented correctly, works quickly and without complaints, which partially compensates for the simplicity of the system itself. The analog dashboard reads perfectly, and the monochrome display of the on-board computer between the tachometer and speedometer scales is not overloaded with unnecessary information.
The front seats are comfortable, with the right profile and normal lateral support, but the range of adjustments could be wider. The steering wheel is adjustable in height and reach, but even in the top configuration, all adjustments are exclusively mechanical, which looks strange given the price. The finishing materials are mostly hard, although soft inserts and pleasant fabric upholstery of the doors are found in key places. There are no complaints about the build quality: the gaps are even, the elements are fitted neatly.
There is exactly as much space in the second row as you would expect from a compact crossover. Two passengers will be comfortable, the third will already be cramped, despite the presence of a central headrest and seat belt. Amenities include an armrest with cup holders, niches for bottles, soft inserts in the doors, and original rubber pockets on the backs of the front seats. Asceticism continues in the trunk: hard plastic, a minimum of trim, and a thin cover of the underground, under which a spare wheel hides. But there is a 12 V socket, lighting, and a standard roller blind. The volume of the cargo compartment is 423 liters, and with the seats folded down - 1115 liters.
In technical terms, the Tivoli is offered without alternatives: front-wheel drive, a 1.5-liter gasoline turbo engine with 163 hp and 260 Nm paired with a six-speed Aisin automatic. The suspension is classic for the segment - McPherson at the front and a semi-independent beam at the rear. The engine is all-aluminum, with direct injection and a Dual VVT system, developed with the participation of the German company FEV. It has been used for a long time on other KGM models and is considered reliable, provided normal maintenance and temperature control. The automatic transmission is also well known, requires oil changes every 60 thousand km and, with proper care, is able to travel hundreds of thousands of kilometers.
On the go, the Tivoli is pleasantly surprising. The car accelerates briskly, confidently keeps pace and does not suffer from delays in the transmission. The steering is precise and informative, with a clear zero and good feedback. The suspension is focused on comfort: it smoothes out small and medium bumps easily, there are no serious breakdowns, although on speed bumps at high speed, harsh responses from the rear are possible. There are rolls in corners, but within reasonable limits. For active, but not sporty driving, the settings are successful and in many ways win against Chinese competitors. But the Tivoli has nothing to do off-road - a ground clearance of 178 mm and front-wheel drive limit the possibilities.
Prices are the most controversial point. The basic City version costs from 2,990,000 rubles and already includes heated seats, cruise control, parking sensors, air conditioning and a luggage blind. The top Icon is estimated at 3.6 million rubles and adds climate control, leather trim, keyless entry and an extended safety package. At the same time, even taking into account discounts, the Tivoli remains an expensive offer in the class. Yes, it has reliable technology, pleasant handling and honest Korean assembly, but for a compact crossover, the price still looks overpriced.