[Test Drive Review] "The Ultimate Value-for-Money Contender" Actyon Hybrid

"An Electric Car Without Charging Hassles"
Urban SUV Equipped with a Powerful Motor and High-Capacity Battery
Enhanced Safety and Convenience Features, Yet Priced in the 36 Million KRW Range

Less than a year after launching the internal combustion engine-based "Actyon" in August last year, KG Mobility (KGM) has now introduced the "Actyon Hybrid." Targeting the rapidly growing hybrid market, KGM has made a bold move by equipping the model with top-tier performance and highly preferred premium features as standard. The company has minimized price increases, earning early attention as the "ultimate value-for-money" option. On July 9, I drove the "Actyon Hybrid" for about 90 kilometers from Songpa, Seoul to Yangpyeong.

Actyon Hybrid. KGM

Before the test drive, let's look at the price: the "Actyon Hybrid" is offered in a single trim at 36,950,000 KRW (reflecting a 3.5% individual consumption tax and eco-friendly vehicle tax benefits). This is less expensive than other hybrid models such as the Renault "Grand Koleos," which starts at 37,610,000 KRW, or the Kia "Sorento," priced at 38,670,000 KRW.

Compared to the existing gasoline model, the price has increased by 2,780,000 KRW. However, considering that hybrids are typically more than 3,000,000 KRW pricier than their gasoline counterparts, KGM has kept the price hike to a minimum. Despite being more affordable than competing models, the Actyon Hybrid does not fall short in terms of performance or features.

The exterior features a signature design inspired by the angular "Taegeukgi Geongon-Gamri," immediately catching the eye. The car boasts a low yet wide body, measuring 4,740mm in length, 1,910mm in width, and 1,680mm in height. The application of 20-inch diamond-cut wheels gives the side profile a dynamic and robust impression.

Actyon Hybrid. KGM

Opening the door and taking a seat, the sporty feel becomes even more apparent. The hexagonal double D-cut steering wheel, equipped with auto hold and favorite shortcut buttons, adds a unique touch to the driver's seat. In addition, the panoramic display?connecting a 12.3-inch cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment system?spans widely, offering an open and expansive view.

Upon starting the engine and pressing the accelerator, the car feels similar to an electric vehicle. Even during road driving, engine intervention is minimal. KGM's next-generation hybrid system, the "Dual Tech Hybrid System," and the hybrid-exclusive "Dual Motor Transmission" enable driving that closely resembles an electric vehicle. The system is optimized for frequent stop-and-go urban driving, allowing up to 94% of driving in electric mode.

Not only in city driving but also at higher speeds, the driving experience remains similar to that of an electric vehicle. The Actyon Hybrid is equipped with the most powerful motor (130kW) and high-capacity battery (1.83kWh) among domestic SUV hybrids. These figures surpass not only competing models but also the large Hyundai Palisade Hybrid (54kW, 1.65kWh). Even when accelerating up to 60km/h, the vehicle operates on the electric motor unless rapid acceleration is required.

Actyon Hybrid. KGM

On uphill roads or when overtaking, the engine responds and quickly propels the car forward. Depending on driving habits, you can switch between Normal, Sport, and Eco drive modes.

Sitting in the back seat, I found the second-row space ample, making it suitable as a family car. The second-row legroom is 939mm, offering plenty of knee space, and despite the coupe-style roofline that slopes downward toward the rear, the second-row headroom is a generous 1,001mm. The cargo space is 652 liters, which expands to 1,424 liters when the second-row seats are folded down.

After driving for over two hours, I noticed that engine noise was barely audible. Although hybrids must activate the engine when extra power is needed, the cabin remained impressively quiet. The application of "NVH (Noise·Vibration·Harshness)" engineering, along with optional sound-absorbing tires, reduces road noise. Additional soundproofing materials in the engine bay, engine cover, and wheel housings further minimize engine noise entering the cabin.

During the 88km drive, which took about two hours and thirty minutes, the recorded fuel efficiency was 15.2km per liter. Even though it was a Wednesday afternoon with relatively light traffic, this is a very good result. The official fuel efficiency for the Actyon Hybrid is 15.0km per liter combined, and 15.6km per liter in the city (based on Nexen tires).

Actyon Hybrid. KGM

Despite being in the upper 30 million KRW range, the Actyon Hybrid offers options such as a panoramic sunroof and a 3D around view monitoring system?features highly favored by consumers?as selectable extras, distinguishing it from competitors. Additionally, it has received Type 2 low-emission certification, making it eligible for parking fee discounts and other benefits.

The Actyon did not attract much attention after its launch due to its similarities with the Torres, but with this hybrid model, it may be able to restore its reputation. With both excellent fuel efficiency and driving performance, the Actyon Hybrid seems suitable not only for commuting but also for weekend family trips. In particular, for those who feel it is still too early to switch to a fully electric vehicle, the "Actyon Hybrid" stands out as an excellent value-for-money choice.