KGM Actyon (2025) Review

EVERYONE is staring because, like me, they haven’t seen another one on the road.

“What is it,” they ask, interested in the large, imposing SUV in the drive, that looks a bit Jeepy from the front, Range Rover-meets-Kia at the back.

Telling them it’s a KGM helps little. “A what,” is the common retort. “It used to be SsangYong,” I reply. “Ah!’’

KGM has a relaxed approach to the name change and hasn’t embarked on massive down your throat marketing campaigns, but then they have a relaxed approach to car sales, not demanding high pressure, big volume, sales targets.

It’s probably because KGM’s car business for the past 70 years – yes it has been around that long – is one of just ten enterprises the Korean giant is involved with, including chemicals and steel.

In some ways it’s a bit of a shame as unless you have a local dealer you might not think to go looking for what is an excellent range of cars.

Actyon is the latest – I must ask how to pronounce the name – and it’s a beauty. I’m not surprised it catches the eye as it is large and imposing. Aesthetics hint at it being an electric vehicle but it’s not, it’s actually a 1.5 litre petrol turbo, which is a relief as I do get sick of charging.

Apparently, styling takes inspiration from the South Korean Flag and its square lines make it look bold and confident, with angular wheel arches, unusual running lights and attractive 20in alloys, yet somehow it also looks sleek, streamline and coupe-like.

Despite being a large vehicle, with only an on-paper modestly-sized 1.5 litre motor, the Actyon is surprisingly zesty thanks to more than 160PS under the bonnet. That engine size-to-weight ratio does mean than fuel consumption suffers a bit and it’s not the most frugal on the road. I struggle to get 30MPG and wonder whether a hybrid might be on the cards.

That said it is a great vehicle to drive, with decent performance, sharp steering and controlled ride.

The EV feel extends inside the well-appointed cabin which is luxurious and contemporary featuring great equipment and tactile materials.

Specification is high and occupants benefit from huge amounts of space inside the cabin and a gargantuan boot that is biggest in class and will take four golf bags.

Inside, there’s a chunky six-sided steering wheel which sits well in the hands and the cockpit feels exceptionally wide and hi-tech. There is loads of hand-stitched Nappa leather and suede which oozes quality and blends traditional with contemporary.

Even the glovebox is well thought out as it will happily swallow a tablet and other digital devices. There’s a floating centre console as well with capacious storage underneath adding further to the sense of interior space.

Soundproof windows and noise reducing Michelin tyres keep NVH to a minimum adding to the feel of plushness.

There is a raft of safety features, heated seats, 360 degree cameras, a smart tailgate with kick sensor, eight way adjustable seats and 32 colour ambient lighting, satnav, blindspot warning so the Actyon wants for nothing.

The keep lane assist is easy to switch off, just press the button on the steering wheel, but if you need to silence the overzealous bingy-bongy speed limit warning claxon you have to go into the menu on the touchscreen. It’s worth doing every time before you set off.

I really like the Actyon which is great looking, immensely practical, enjoyable to drive and good value SUV. With traits like this it must surely soon find its way into the consciousness of the buying public.

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