Resurrection. A comeback after 20 years. This is the coupe-style SUV ‘Actyon’ from KG Mobility. I drove 30km from Pyeongtaek to Anseong in Gyeonggi Province on August 20th.
The Actyon is a coupe-style SUV that SsangYong Motors launched in 2005. Its rounded roofline resembling that of a beetle failed to attract consumers, leading it to disappear from the market in 2010. In the meantime, the company was acquired by KG Mobility, which decided to revive the coupe model under the name ‘Actyon’.
The front features LED daytime running lights in a Geon-gon-gam-li pattern and full LED headlights, presenting a robust yet dynamic impression. The vertically oriented rear lights and ACTYON lettering complete the design in a stable manner.
With dimensions of 4,740×1,910×1,680mm, the sloping roofline from the A-pillar to the D-pillar showcases the Actyon’s uniqueness. The wheelbase is 2,680mm. Unlike typical coupe SUVs, the Actyon offers enough space for two fists above the head, and two fists of legroom in front of the knees. The center tunnel provides comfort even for the second-row passenger seated in the middle.
The second-row seats can recline up to 32.5 degrees. While second-row passengers have endured discomfort during long trips, they can now enjoy long journeys in comfort. The trunk space is also spacious; folding the second row opens up to a maximum cargo area of 1,568 liters. Adults nearing 190cm can lie down, making it suitable for car camping or transporting bulky items. It’s a versatile vehicle.
The 12.3-inch driver’s instrument cluster and Infocon display are seamlessly integrated, enhancing driver focus. The Infocon display includes both the navigation screen and climate control interface, allowing temperature adjustments at a touch. The doors and dashboard are accented with suede leather and red stitching, while ambient lighting gives a refined touch. The crystal-style electronic toggle shifter exudes luxury, and the Actyon returns as a sleek and sophisticated vehicle.
No need to go back home for a car key. The digital key system enables locking and unlocking the car doors through a smartphone. However, the absence of a head-up display, common in competing models, is disappointing.
It makes a 2.5 turns lock to lock. The steering response is quite light. Pairing a 1.5 turbo gasoline engine with a maximum output of 170 horsepower and a torque of 28.6kg.m, along with a 6-speed automatic transmission from the third-generation Aisin, enhances performance. Attention was paid to sound insulation treatment between the vehicle underbody, engine compartment, and cabin. In urban driving, the engine noise—a robust sound—is heard smoothly, akin to a baby humming.
At 100 km/h, engine speeds fluctuate between 1,900rpm in 6th gear and 4,500rpm in 3rd gear. The small-hearted vehicle surprises the driver with its surprisingly swift movements.
The humming noise of a baby in the city transforms into a rich engine sound when accelerating on the highway. Wind noise and underbody sounds remain quiet at higher speeds. The Actyon’s tightly configured suspension delivers nimble handling without any underbody vibrations.
Advanced driving assistance systems have been integrated. The intelligent adaptive cruise control adapts not just to the vehicle’s speed but also adjusts according to traffic flow. The lane-keeping assistance system exhibits unwavering composure on curves, appearing akin to a well-trained soldier.
When exiting a parking space, there’s a safety exit notification feature that alerts passengers when vehicles are approaching from the rear. Additionally, there’s a front vehicle start notification feature to capture the driver’s attention if they become distracted while talking to someone next to them or looking away while waiting at a traffic signal.
The Actyon has amassed 58,000 pre-orders and 13,000 confirmed contracts, completely erasing its troubled past. The Actyon has reemerged with a fresh face appropriate for a new era.
The test vehicle is the Actyon S9 trim, priced at 36,490,000 KRW.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr