New KGM Torres EVX is a £44k electric SUV from rebranded Ssangyong

• Family SUV with rugged looks
• Choice of petrol engine or EV
• Both on sale now

The electric KGM Torres EVX SUV has gone on sale in the UK, joining its petrol powered twin – the Torres – that appeared in dealerships earlier this year. Those EVX initials bring more than just electric motors to the Torres – it gets a unique exterior design and a heftier price tag to match, costing from £44,495.

Formally known as SsangYong, the South Korean manufacturer underwent a rebranding process last year and the Torres is the first all-new model to be launched in the UK under the ‘KGM’ name. We first covered the KGM Torres in 2022 following its initial reveal, but at the time there was no mention of a petrol-powered variant making it to the UK. It seems the rebranding process brought a fresh lineup strategy, as the Torres initially launched with a 1.5-litre petrol engine, while the fully electric Torres EVX has only just gone on sale.

What does the KGM Torres look like?

KGM describes the Torres as sitting between the typical mid-size and large SUVs currently on sale, with its length of 4,700mm aligning closest with the BMW X3 and Honda CR-V. It’s sold as both with a traditional petrol combustion engine, or a fully electric powertrain.

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The petrol-powered KGM Torres’ styling is a departure from that of the brand’s previous lineup; there are various squared-off styling details and a generally rugged demeanour to exemplify the brand’s new “powered by toughness” design language.

The front end is defined by strong vertical and horizontal lines, along with a pair of LED daytime running lights reminiscent of the first-generation Range Rover Evoque. You’ll notice various silver-painted accents around the exterior, adding to what KGM calls a “rugged and tough aesthetic”.

The electric Torres EVX gets a unique look of its own, with an arrangement of thin horizontal LED running lights across the nose sitting above an entirely different bumper, as well as unique wheels.

What about the interior of the KGM Torres?

Inside, you’re greeted by a pair of 12.3-inch digital displays – one for the driver and one for infotainment. It’s a simple, minimalist layout, similar to some interiors we’ve seen in the latest Kias and Hyundais. There’s leather upholstery, along with metal trim pieces and ambient lighting.

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There’s all the usual connectivity, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and USB ports, although the lack of interior buttons suggests that media and climate controls will be handled through the central touchscreen or steering wheel shortcuts.

What engines are available with the KGM Torres?

There’s only one petrol engine available for the KGM Torres – a 1.5-litre four-cylinder. It produces 161bhp and drives either the front or all four wheels – depending on spec – through a six-speed automatic gearbox. While it certainly won’t accelerate like a sports car, the Torres has enough grunt to tow up to 1.5 tonnes.

The electric Torres EVX is the more powerful option, with a single 204bhp motor powered by a 73kWh BYD-derived battery. The system provides the Torres EVX with up to 287 miles of range and it retains the 1.5-tonne towing capacity of the petrol variant. 

How much does the KGM Torres cost and when can I order one?

The entry-level Torres K30 starts from £35,080, with the K40 model costing £38,080. The latter is available with four-wheel drive, adding another £1,915. Torres K30 and K40 models are available to order now, while the four-wheel drive model is expected to join the lineup in the summer. The electric Torres EVX is on sale now, starting from £44,495 in K30 specification, while the K40 costs £47,495. 

All models come with a reassuring seven-year, 90,000-mile warranty, plus a separate 10-year, one-million-mile warranty for the EVX’s battery.
There are plenty of SUVs on sale to rival the KGM Torres – read our top 10 list to find out which are best...