SsangYong Tivoli SUV - Practicality & boot space

The compact crossover class is a section of the car market where practicality is sometimes sacrificed on the altar of style, but the SsangYong Tivoli matches some of its rivals when it comes to cabin and boot space.

The elevated ride height that defines the crossover class helps make getting in and out straightforward. All four doors open wide and once you’re inside the seating is firm and supportive. If you need more space, SsangYong used to sell the Tivoli XLV, which has a stretched boot for extra luggage space.

SsangYong Tivoli interior space & storage

This is a supermini-sized car, but a six-footer can sit relatively comfortably behind another adult of similar dimensions, making this one of the best models in the class for buyers intending to regularly use the rear seats.

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Storage space in the cabin is plentiful, with deep pockets in the doors and more in the centre console. It’s only really in terms of material quality where the Tivoli’s cabin gives anything away to its rivals.

There’s plenty of space inside for five adults – although taller adults sitting in the back may find they’re a bit short on legroom. A multitude of cubbies, including deep door bins and a large glovebox, means there’s a decent amount of storage space and makes the Tivoli an excellent choice for families. There are also ISOFIX mounting points on the rear bench for two child seats.

Boot space

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The Tivoli has a 393-litre boot, which compares favourably with what you get in the Ford EcoSport (350 litres) and Hyundai Kona (334 litres). The Renault Captur offers a bit more luggage capacity, with between 422 and 536 litres. SsangYong says the boot of the Tivoli will fit three golf bags. The boot also has a false floor that can be folded and stored inside the car, while the folding rear seats go completely flat.

It seems miserly that you don’t get a luggage cover as standard on the entry-level EX model. Besides letting passers-by see what it’s in the boot, it also makes the interior a little noisier.

Towing

The Tivoli really is the little crossover that can, as the diesel model has a 1.5 tonne maximum towing capacity, and that's the same whether you choose the manual or automatic versions. The petrol versions aren't as impressive, with a 1,000kg limit.