BIG BOOT-E – KGM TORRES EVX REVIEW

Kimchi, the spicy pickled cabbage from Korea, is an acquired taste for many, and today we have a car that fits a similar mold: the KGM Torres EVX. This Korean SUV may be a bit unusual at first glance, but it promises to be an excellent choice for many buyers.

KGM is a new name in the automotive world, and takes over from the troubled SsangYong brand. After undergoing some business challenges and acquiring new ownership, the company rebranded, marking a fresh start. Despite being developed under the old management, the Torres EVX reflects a bold new direction for the brand.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The KGM Torres EVX stands out with its aggressive, boxy design. It’s a medium-sized family SUV that draws visual cues from off-road vehicles, featuring a studded front grille reminiscent of Jeep’s iconic look. The light structures and patterns on the vehicle nod to the Korean flag, proudly showcasing its heritage.

While the exterior is striking, looking impressively capable off road despite its on-road focussed platform and front-wheel drive engineering. We like the look, which actually downplays the vehicles serious interior volume as well. The fake tyre cover design on the rear door – which is styled to look like it is side-opening rather than its actual top-opening setup – looks a little odd, but fun.

The 20-inch wheels are substantial for a vehicle of this size, but don’t actually look it in context to the boxy shape.

INTERIOR AND FEATURES

Inside, the Torres EVX is modern and functional. The cabin features plenty of storage options including a large armrest cubby, cup holders, and USB-C ports.

There are some nice touches, like contrasting stitching and ambient lighting. Some plastics feel less solid and more plasticky than desired, but overall, the cabin is comfortable and visually appealing.

The front seats are electrically adjustable, heated, and cooled, providing a high level of comfort. Visibility is excellent, aided by a standard 360-degree camera system.

The backseat of the Torres EVX is huge, with ample headroom thanks to the unique roofline. The front setback design takes some cues from Kia and includes features like a coat hanger and phone holders, enhancing convenience for passengers. The rear seats also offer heating, a rare luxury in this market segment.

Cargo space is another strong suit, with 700 liters available with the seats up, rivaling the Tesla Model Y in terms of load capacity. Folding the seats down expands the cargo space to over 1600 liters, making it highly versatile for various needs.

Additionally, the vehicle includes a free vehicle-to-load adapter, allowing you to power appliances while camping or engaging in other outdoor activities.

PERFORMANCE AND DRIVING EXPERIENCE

Before looking at the drive, you need to check out the KGM’s impressive battery. Supplied by BYD, it is LFP and has a capacity of 73.4 – one of the biggest tat this price point. Charging is solid too: 145 kW for DC and 11 kW for AC.

The EVX’s motor produces 150 kW of power and 339 Nm of torque, resulting in a 0-100 km/h time of 8.1 seconds. It offers a WLTP range of 462 kilometers, though expect high 300km results in daily conditions.

The SUV performs well both in city driving and on the open road, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. The steering, while slightly heavy, is responsive and suitable for a family SUV. Like any high-torque front-wheel drive SUV, expect some wheel spin.

Road noise is a minor issue, with some tire and wind noise noticeable, particularly in headwinds. The interior materials may contribute to this slight reduction in refinement, but the overall driving experience remains positive.

The vehicle’s driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, work effectively, although the driver awareness system can be overly sensitive at times.

We did find the transmission shifter, a simple switch that appears inspired by some Volkswagen-group product – a little clumsy, requiring a second attempt during some maneuvers. The flat-bottomed steering wheel is actually very nice in the hand with good button positioning.

INFOTAINMENT AND TECHNOLOGY

The infotainment system in the Torres EVX features large screens that again takes a few cues from Kia product. The software a little cluttered, but reasonably user-friendly, offering Apple CarPlay (wired) and Android Auto.

VALUE AND CONCLUSION

One of the most compelling aspects of the KGM Torres EVX is its pricing. Early buyers can get this SUV for $66,990, making it a strong contender against the Tesla Model Y in terms of value. Even at its standard price of $67,990, it remains an attractive option, offering a competitive price per kilowatt-hour of battery capacity.

While the brand is new, if you are looking for solid range, performance and build, with top-level space and comfort, it really has to be on your shopping list.