Years ago SUV They are here to stay and Nissan is largely to blame for this. First the Qashqai popularized C-segment crossovers, while later the Nissan Juke did the same with the segment B. In recent years we have seen how the smaller SUVs are gaining ground against the utility vehicles and more and more manufacturers want to play in this market niche.
There are many alternatives offered by the market, but at ActualidadMotor we have decided to make a comparative test with two of the latest innovations in the segment: The ssangyong tivoli and Suzuki Vitara. Both have many things in common, but they stand out for being two of the most revolutionary models on the market for their respective brands. The first is due to the change of course and the improvement it represents for SsangYong, while the second leaves aside the Vitara's off-road philosophy to become a commercially successful SUV.
the opponents
For this comparison, we have tried to obtain two cars that are very similar to each other, and we have succeeded. They both have a 1.6 liter gasoline engine, manual gearbox and 4×2 front-wheel drive. They even sport white bodywork and similar trim levels. Although in general terms they look identical cars, there are some differences. For example, the engine of the SsangYong Tivoli G16 has 128 horsepower and direct injection, in front of 120 horses and the multipoint injection of the Vitara VVT. The Korean also offers a six-speed manual gearbox, compared to five for the Japanese.
In terms of dimensions we also find some differences. The SsangYong Tivoli is slightly longer and wider than the Vitara and also has a battle 10 centimeters greater.
Speaking of equipment, both are the highest finish in their range and although they are very complete, each one has its gaps. For example, the Tivoli Limited does not have heated seats, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and start, automatic emergency braking system or front and rear parking sensors, while in the Vitara GLX We will miss the photosensitive interior mirror, the dual-zone climate control or the variable power steering.
Exterior design
This is the most subjective part of the entire comparison, but in terms of design, there are some differences. They both present a aggressive and sporty front, much more masculine and robust looking at the Tivoli. In the side view, the Vitara will give us the feeling of being larger due to its rear custody windows, but the reality is that the Tivoli is slightly longer. the Tivoli's 18″ alloy wheels achieve a sportier appearance than the Vitara. At the rear, the Tivoli exudes personality and its design makes it look very wide and low. It is here that the Vitara brings out its Japanese genes and shows us a stamp somewhat lacking in personality, with a simple design.
Something remarkable in the B SUV segment is that they usually offer various customization options and neither the Vitara nor the Tivoli are less. Both offer different wheel designs depending on the finish, and even in different colors. They can also have various combinations of two-tone bodywork and some accessories that give them more personality. This aspect is the most personal and each one will have their preferences. On this occasion, neither of the two cars in the comparison stands out for having striking color combinations, they are quite discreet in this regard.
Quality and interior design
ssangyong tivoli
Moving on to the passenger compartment, we will find a series of differences that make the two SUVs pass the ball at every moment. The Vitara has a more classic dashboard, very Suzuki, but the control layout is much more intuitive and ergonomic. The most noteworthy is the climate control, more simplified in the Vitara, while in the Tivoli the buttons are smaller and their reading on the go is more complicated, which could distract us. The quality to the touch of the buttons is more successful in the Vitara, except for the light and clean levers, which are more modern and have a better touch in the Tivoli, which remind us of those of an Audi.
Fit quality is very good on both cars. All the plastics seem well assembled and when pressing on them there is no creaking sound. There are also no crickets when driving through bumpy areas. In terms of materials, the Vitara is much more conservative and makes more use of hard plastics, although with a good appearance. On top of dashboard and doors the Tivoli resorts to a more rubbery and padded material, more pleasant and with better quality to the touch.
Suzuki Vitara
Both cars have separate screens in the center of the dashboard. The Vitara has a simpler look and has touch buttons to go to home, settings, voice control and even manipulate the volume. The Tivoli has a screen that makes less reflections and the buttons are physical, better handling, especially on the go. Nevertheless, the way of displaying the Tivoli information and the menus are not very intuitive, while in the Vitara it is very easy to get used to its management. On the other hand, tactile feedback is better on the Tivoli.
When it comes to displaying information, both cars have simple clock panels, but the Vitara's is easier to read and the multifunction screen is easier to interpret as it shows less information, since the fuel level and temperature clocks are physical and are not in the LCD as if it happens in the Tivoli. Where none approves, it is in the button to change the screen of the on-board computer. In the Vitara it is located to the right of the clock panel and it is a lug like the one for resetting the partial odometer, while in the Tivoli it is located in the center console. On the steering wheel or on one of the light or wiper levers would be much better.
As for the seats, both have the sides upholstered in leather, with the central area in suede in the case of the Vitara and in fabric in the Tivoli. That of the Vitara is more pleasant to the touch, although it will probably age worse due to the typical wear and tear of these upholstery. THE SsangYong Tivoli has front seats that offer better lateral grip, especially on the sidewalk, which is appreciated when driving on twisty roads. In the front seats it is appreciated that the Vitara have an extendable armrest. In the rear, neither has a center armrest.
indoor habitability
ssangyong tivoli
If we go on to talk about the indoor habitability, here there is no doubt that the winner is the SsangYong Tivoli. The Korean is slightly larger in its external dimensions, although it may not seem so, but inside the differences in space are palpable. In the front seats it is not so evident, although in the Tivoli the width is more loose. Where the difference is really noticeable is in the rear seats.
El longitudinal legroom is really good in the Tivoli, we will not miss it, and the width is also greater. The greater width of the rear bench makes it possible for three adults to travel more comfortably and they will also enjoy more headroom. In the Vitara, when traveling with three occupants, those at the ends have to be placed closer to the doors, where the height of the ceiling is less and the highest ones could touch their heads. Also, in the SsangYong Tivoli the transmission tunnel is almost non-existent, while the Suzuki's is more intrusive.
The Suzuki Vitara has more usable shapes and a better loading mouth
The trunk is another point in favor of the Tivoli. According to homologation, cubic 423 liters compared to 375 of the Vitara, although it is true that at first glance the Viatara seems much larger. We don't know where SsangYong has gotten so much space. In what there is no doubt is that the trunk of the Suzuki is more practical, since the loading mouth is considerably wider and lower. Both have a double bottom and in the Vitara in its highest position it is located flush with the loading mouth, while the Tivoli will always have a step. The shapes of the trunk of the Vitara are also more cubic and usable.
At the wheel
When driving them, it will be where we will find the most differences between the two SUVs, despite the fact that on paper they show very similar figures. The Vitara is much more accomplished in its powertrain. The 1.6-horsepower 120-liter engine is much more refined in operation, less noisy and also uses less fuel. In the homologation there is already a significant difference in favor of the Vitara (5,3 compared to 6,6 liters) and the truth is that it is easy to find those differences of one liter between the two opponents.
The engine of the SsangYong Tivoli has some strange noises on hold and when we accelerate below 2.000 laps, as if we were forced. At the same time, at the exits it vibrates slightly and performance-wise, it is more lazy. The Suzuki Vitara has noticeably better response and this is probably where the Vitara wins by a better staggering of relations in its five-speed box. The Tivoli has six relationships.
Both are atmospheric and neither is exempt from having to turn up the gears and downshift when it comes to reacting with agility, but the Vitara's liveliness is superior in all situations. Both gearboxes have a precise feel, but the Tivoli makes some noises, as if there was some play when changing gear. We rule out that it may be a problem with this unit, since models like the SsangYong Korando in two units did the same.
If we talk about Stop & Start, the truth is that neither of them is brilliant, but this is where the Vitara takes off again, since at startup it is almost imperceptible, while the Tivoli makes the same noise as if we started with the key.
It is in terms of dynamic behavior where the two cars are further apart. The Suzuki Vitara has a noticeably more comfortable set-up. Its suspension better filters irregularities in very bumpy areas and pampers the occupants more, although, however, it allows the body to balance more. The Tivoli, for its part, has firmer suspension and has a more poised and sporty driving., to which seats with better lateral support contribute. When traveling we will notice that both can suffer from a lack of sound insulation, especially in the face of aerodynamic noise, although the Vitara is quieter.
In the direction of both cars we find differences, and while that of the Vitara is more direct, it suffers from excess assistance, it is very light. The Tivoli is not very reactive in the first turning angles, but it has three selectable hardnesses and in the Sport mode has the ideal weight. When it comes to light driving, both cars exhibit good behavior given their nature and are quite neutral. In the case of the Vitara, when the traction control kicks in, it does so in a very subtle, practically imperceptible way.
Our veredicto
At the end of the test, it is time to judge. The aesthetic section is completely personal and in many cases it will be decisive, since this is one of the most important factors in buying a car. The price will not be too decisive, since both offer similar rates, with an approximate range of 700-800 euros.
If one of our priorities is space, there is no discussion possible, and the Tivoli is a better option., also accompanied by a somewhat more dynamic behavior. On the other hand, if we prioritize comfort, the Vitara is postulated as the most interesting, in addition to offering a more refined engine, effective and efficient and a remarkably more complete equipment. In the case of the Vitara, it has passed the EuroNCAP with five stars and good grades, while the Tivoli has not been tested by this independent body.
CONGRATULATIONS FOR THE VIDEO AND THE TESTS IN GENERAL…YOU ARE THE BEST ON THE INTERNET, KEEP IT UP AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR EFFORT AND WORK.
I forgot…..Is the Suzuki engine from Fiat or from the brand?….Does it have a timing belt or chain?
Ssangyong price and Auxiliary price
in 15ooo km there is no longer disc brakes in the korando
The suzuki has a timing chain and is a 100×100 Japanese engine
I am happy to find posts where to find information as practical as this. Thanks for contributing this article.
regards