KGM Actyon: A Range Rover on a Budget? The Reality of a Two-Week Test Drive

The automotive world is full of aspirational brands and vehicles that come with an equally aspirational price tag. But what if you could get the bold design and spaciousness of a premium SUV without the wallet-crushing cost? Enter the KGM Actyon. Priced from around €35,000, it aims to deliver the size and presence of a Volkswagen Tayron for a fraction of the price. We spent two weeks with this intriguing newcomer to see if it delivers on its promise or falls flat like a cheap imitation.

First Impressions: More than Just a Pretty Face?

The Actyon makes a strong first impression. From the striking front grille to the elegant, sloping roofline, its design is modern and sporty—drawing inspiration from some of the most eye-catching luxury SUVs on the market. It certainly turns heads on the street. Inside, the cabin continues this theme. The materials feel surprisingly solid, a far cry from what you might expect from a budget-friendly option. The centerpiece is the dual 12.3-inch panoramic display, which combines the infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster into a single, sleek unit. It gives the cabin a clean, contemporary feel that could easily belong in a more expensive vehicle.

However, not everything is perfect. We found the small, fiddly toggle switches on the steering wheel to be a step backward in ergonomics, while the oversized, cheap-feeling buttons below were a jarring contrast to the otherwise premium aesthetic.

Space and Comfort: The Actyon's Greatest Strength

If you need space, the Actyon is a serious contender. The boot offers a cavernous capacity of up to 1,568 liters with the seats folded down, more than enough for family holidays or trips to the hardware store. While the height of the trunk is a bit limited, its impressive width more than compensates.

Passenger space is equally generous. Both front and rear seats offer ample legroom and shoulder room, making it a comfortable ride for most people. However, here's a crucial caveat: the seats themselves, particularly the backrests, are a bit too short, which can be an issue for taller individuals. As someone who is 1.74m (5'8"), I found them to be on the borderline. If you are over 1.80m (6'0"), you might find the headrests at their maximum height and the overall support lacking on longer journeys.

Driving Dynamics: A Mixed Bag

Under the bonnet, the Actyon is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 163 hp, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain provides decent, if not exhilarating, performance. It's more than capable of handling motorway speeds, though wind noise does become more noticeable as you push past 120 km/h.

In the city, the Actyon's handling is solid and comfortable, making it a pleasant daily driver. However, once you get onto winding country roads, the steering feels a bit imprecise and lacks the sharpness found in some European competitors. A standout feature is the optional all-wheel drive, which provides an extra layer of confidence on slippery roads and is capable of handling light off-road excursions. Just don't expect it to tackle a hardcore trail; it's a soft-roader, not an off-road beast.

The Tech Experience: A Work in Progress

The infotainment system is a double-edged sword. While the twin-screen layout looks great, its functionality has a few kinks to iron out. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but only via a wired connection. We also experienced some significant lag when operating the system with the steering wheel buttons—a problem KGM has acknowledged and is actively working on a software update to fix. While there were some minor delays when using the touchscreen, these were generally manageable. A quick swipe-down on the screen thankfully provides a shortcut to climate controls, a thoughtful feature given the lack of physical buttons for this function.

Other notable tech features on higher trim levels include a 360° camera system for easier parking and a panoramic glass sunroof that floods the cabin with light, creating an airy feel. You also get creature comforts like dual-zone climate control and heated and ventilated seats.

The Verdict: A Compelling Value Proposition with Compromises

The KGM Actyon is a difficult car to neatly categorize. It successfully blends striking, premium-inspired design with an impressively spacious and versatile interior, all at an accessible price point. It's a vehicle that does many things right, from its practical cargo space to its comfortable city ride.

However, it's not without its flaws. The less-than-perfect ergonomics, the laggy infotainment system (for now), and the potential for discomfort for taller drivers are all points to consider. Ultimately, the Actyon is a car that makes sense for the buyer who prioritizes space, equipment, and a modern aesthetic over flawless driving dynamics and a perfectly polished user experience. If you’re looking for a big SUV that gives you the most bang for your buck and are willing to accept a few compromises, the KGM Actyon is a seriously interesting contender.