We have driven the new KGM Torres EVX, the 100% electric version of the SsangYong SUV, which debuts the new brand name that the South Korean models and manufacturer will have from now on.
If recent history has taught us anything, it is not to undervalue South Korean brands. And in this regard, we bring you the test of the KGM Torres EVX. Although many will still know it as SsanYong Torres, despite the brand name change since on this occasion, we are talking about an electric car.
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The truth is that SsangYong is still present, but now it is part of the large KG conglomerate, which wants a greater presence in various sectors, both in South Korea and in the rest of the world. And this is the first electric SUV of that new era.
Design of the KGM Torres EVX
The Torres EVX has grown slightly compared to its counterpart with an internal combustion engine. It measures 4,715 mm long, 1,890 mm wide and 1,725 mm high (including the roof rack). Some considerable measures, but not excessive.
On an aesthetic level, it is one of those cars that have returned to the origins of SUVs and all-terrain vehicles. Square shapes with well-defined edges, rectangular mirrors and a really curious lighting signature.
The differences with the combustion model lie in a new front bumper that eliminates one of the grilles and only maintains the lower grille, which has active cooling for the battery with the aim of reducing aerodynamic resistance. And also, the C pillar is black, following the style of the entire upper part.
Inside, we find a cabin with truly surprising qualities. Leather on the seats and steering wheel or imitation wood on the dashboard, in addition to some metallic physical elements and piano white trim in the case of my unit.
In the middle we have a floating center console with two USB-C connections and its curved interface that integrates a digital instrument panel and multimedia screen stands out. Both 12.3 inches. And a part of the second, dedicated to air conditioning functions, due to the absence of physical buttons beyond the driving control and on the steering wheel.
The comfort of the cabin is notable, with heated and ventilated seats, plenty of space (even in the rear seats for people 1.90 meters tall) and a trunk capacity of 703 liters, expandable up to 839 liters with the double bottom.
KGM Torres EVX engines
During the test of the electric SsangYong Torres I drove the only engine available at the moment: with 204 HP and 339 Nm of maximum torque and a 73.4 kWh battery capacity. A powertrain signed entirely by the Chinese brand BYD.
The SUV reaches a range of up to 462 kilometers in the WLTP cycle. And, on the other hand, it supports fast charging up to 300 kW in DC (Direct Current) to increase its energy level from 10% to 80% in 37 minutes.
Its average consumption, unfortunately, is somewhat high using air conditioning and on the road. Although it should be noted that the speed limits in Turkey are up to 140 km/h. I oscillated approximately 25 kWh per 100 kilometers. Quite high, although many other vehicles are in that brand.
It is not bad in terms of performance, but according to those responsible for the company, a second option is expected with another battery that could be perfect for purely urban use. Also provided by the Asian brand BYD.
Is the KGM Torres EVX worth it?
We still have to run the car and we don't know the price, so venturing here is treading on swampy ground. The internal combustion SsangYong Torres starts at 34,000 euros, so the KGM Torres EVX could approach or exceed 50,000 euros.
What we do know is that up to 7 different colors and three interior upholstery models will be offered: white and vanilla, ocher and black with bronze details. On the other hand, there will be three models of wheels: two 18 inches and one 20 inches.
What we have seen, we liked. On the exterior we have a very characteristic design and on the interior, everything is finished with quality and its multimedia system is quite pleasant. In addition, the dynamics are pleasant and the driving aids worked without problems. We will have to wait for more hours of driving and information to draw conclusions!