NAMING a new SUV the Actyon (think "action") grabs the attnetion. Tha's why KGM, formerly known as SsangYong, launched the Actyon with the flair of a film premiere - complete with lights, camera, and action.

So, how does it perform? First impressions are positive. However, it enters the fiercely competitive mid-SUV segment, currently dominated by the all conquering Kia Sportage, which makes its task even more challenging.

The Actyon comes in a single, high-level specification, the K50, and offers premium features while undercutting the equivalently specced market leader by £2,300, with a starting price of £36,995.

The name "Actyon" is crafted by the company to combine "Act Young" and "Act On," reflecting a philosophy they describe as "Practical Creativity," whatever that may imply.

It boasts a spacious cabin and load area, along with a lively yet reasonably economical petrol engine. Plus, it includes a five-year, 100,000-mile warranty.

Positioned below the larger Rexton, the Actyon features a 1.5 G-DI turbocharged engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. With high-end fixtures and fittings, this SUV can genuinely claim to be of premium quality.

Visually, it's an attractive vehicle with bold styling. KGM states that the front design draws inspiration from the Korean flag. Its imposing silhouette is enhanced by daytime running lights and sleek light clusters surrounding the signature grille.

The rear of the vehicle includes a high-mounted spoiler with a central stop lamp, and it achieves a premium look thanks to 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and a powered tailgate with a 'kick' function. However, I'm puzzled by the grab handles on the bonnet, which seem to give it a rugged aesthetic but serve no apparent purpose.

Inside, the soft-touch finishes, various accents, and ambient lighting contribute to the premium feel. The Actyon also features eight-way powered, heated, and ventilated suede seats with two-way lumbar support, heated reclining rear seats, glossy carbon and matte black finishes with red trim, and a crystal-like ‘shift by wire' toggle switch for the transmission.

The interior is spacious and filled with glass, which allows light to brighten the darker upholstery.

Central to the experience is a multimedia system with a dual 12.3-inch high-resolution digital cluster and infotainment display, controlling essential functions like navigation and infotainment. It also offers Bluetooth, USB connectivity, DAB, AM, FM radio, and smartphone connectivity through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A convenient swipe-down menu allows for quick control over volume, drive modes, and parking assist. While the hexagon-shaped multifunction steering wheel may not appeal to everyone, it provides a clear view of the instrumentation.

A notable innovation is the favourites control, which helps users manage the numerous digital functions. This allows you to set favorites for climate control, phone, or infotainment, easily accessible at the touch of a button. On the road, the 163PS engine, combined with the 6-speed automatic transmission, delivers lively performance, as demonstrated during a varied journey through the Cotswolds.

It accelerates to 60 mph in approximately 10.5 seconds and feels even quicker with the use of paddle shifters. The decent engine torque supports comfortable overtaking, while good handling and direct electric power steering make it adept on challenging Cotswold roads. However, it offers modest fuel economy of around 33 mpg and CO2 emissions of 194g/km, which are not particularly favorable for benefit-in-kind calculations.

The ride is on the firmer side, but not uncomfortable. It handles sweeping bends and tighter turns well. Noise refinement is another strong point, with cabin noise and vibrations minimized through sound-deadening materials, laminated front door glass, and Michelin noise-canceling tires that reduce road noise by a claimed 50 percent.

With just one model available, it comes packed with equipment, including a 360-degree camera, full digital screen, parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control. KGM claims it is best in class for both load capacity and safety features.

The stowage space is generous, offering 668 liters, expandable to 1,568 liters with the back seats fully folded, easily accessed via the powered tailgate.

Additional storage options include a hidden space beneath the load floor, space in the center console, rear seat storage, and large door trays.

Safety features include a high-strength steel body, eight airbags, emergency braking, lane departure and lane assist, stability and traction control, blind spot detection, hill descent control, and rear cross-traffic alert, to name a few.

Overall, the Actyon is an impressive first offering from KGM, despite its average fuel economy and relatively high emissions. With its attractive pricing, impressive specifications, and extended warranty, it certainly looks like a serious contender in its segment.

While it is currently available only in front-wheel drive, the design appears to be tailored for future versatility.