Charm design and luxurious interior KGM Actian..How competitive are you in Europe?
Apr 15, 2025
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During the long-term test drive, KGM Actian's strengths and weaknesses were clearly revealed.However, it indirectly shows how advanced Actian has developed in that it is highly marketable enough to be evaluated on the same basis as global mainstream competitors, not low-cost models in emerging economies.
As we continued with the long-term test, we were able to find out more. The total mileage was 1,208 kilometers, and fuel efficiency was 13.7 kilometers per liter. For consumers looking for cheap new cars, COVID-19 is over, but the options are not the same.
As legal standards for the environment and safety increase, manufacturers are forced to raise the price of new cars. In addition, large global brands are also moving to avoid price competition with cheap new internal combustion engine cars in China or India as they withdraw from the low-end market.
All of these factors are making KGM Actian's future interesting. Previously known to Europe under the name 'Double', the brand has always valued cost-effectiveness in the UK. However, with the launch of the mid-size SUV Actian, it is attempting to transition to a more high-end market.
KGM is counting on Actian's interior space and specifications, as well as its high-end materials and designs.Through this, we expect to be able to compete almost on par with Kia Sportage, Peugeot 3008, and Volkswagen T-Rock.To determine whether it was a vain confidence or a realistic possibility, I experienced this car firsthand for six months and confirmed its true value.
Actian currently offers a gasoline turbo single powertrain, a single trim level, and only a few options. Compared to competing vehicles with multiple trims, you may be embarrassed by the narrow selection, but it is also easy to choose backwards.
The test drive is Grand White. Only this color is available for free. All other colors add 650 pounds (about 1.2 million won).Additional options such as side steps, towing bars, dog guards, and indoor protective mats are provided. Even if all options are selected, not exceeding £40,000 is the part that highlights the cost-effectiveness.
The first impression is that it doesn't look bad on the outside or the finish looks too cheap. The front is Kia Sorento, and the back is marked by Range Rover sports. KGM has traditionally adopted an angled SUV design.The bonnet handle shape is a bit awkward, but the diamond cutting alloy wheels are attractive.However, the 20-inch wheel looks somewhat smaller than the heavy body.
The interior is even better.Thanks to the body size, KGM offers a big advantage in terms of indoor space.In particular, its advantages stand out in the back seat, and despite its height of 180cm, it has plenty of head and leg space.And 668 liters of ample trunk space is also noticeable.
What is worse than expected is the indoor quality.Actian is definitely on par with its mainstream rivals in terms of robustness, material and design.Sitting on a leather and suede seat, looking at the 12.3-inch central touchscreen, digital cluster, and neatly finished dashboard, you will feel relieved that you saved 3,000 pounds (about 5.5 million won) compared to the same Kia car.
Relatively, the infotainment system seems to be somewhat lacking. I often have to press the screen multiple times for input, and I have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but I don't have a wireless connection.
Although it is still a new car, there is also a big difference in active fuel efficiency.Up to 17 kilometers per liter is possible on the highway, but it is difficult to get over the middle of 8.5 kilometers per liter on city driving.Officially, the combined fuel efficiency is 14 kilometers per liter. On average, it is moderate, but the higher the engine speed, the worse the fuel economy is.
The biggest disadvantage I have felt during the long-term test drive so far is the comfort of riding. To say the least, there is a strong bouncy feeling depending on the road surface.On city roads with frequent manholes and dents, the Actian is not as comfortable as its peers.
However, the ride is better than the same level in places where the road surface is smooth.On open roads, you should get used to the sounds of lane departure warning systems.Fortunately, you can turn off these driver aids in the submenu of the infotainment system.
Taken together, attractive exterior design and luxurious interior significantly increase fuel efficiency depending on the part to be praised or driving conditions, and the ride quality is significantly reduced depending on the various road surfaces. It is necessary to compensate for the shortcomings including various power trains such as hybrids to give satisfaction with the higher price. Only then will you be able to get a choice instead of a competitive vehicle.
Meanwhile, Actian was launched in August 2024 in the domestic market and predicted an early sensation. Although 16,000 units were contracted on the day of the pre-contract, KGM set its own new record, the actual shipment volume is less than 1,000 units per month due to the high evaluation of the powertrain, which has only 1.5 turbo gasoline. Recently, it has dropped to less than 400 units. A new powertrain applied to Torres Hybrid will be applied in the second half of the year, and it seems that a quick introduction is needed to overcome Actian sales.
Editor Song Moon-cheol mc.song@carguy.kr
This article was translated by Naver AI translator.
