Ssangyong Motor Co., owned by India's auto giant Mahindra & Mahindra, launched the Tivoli Air on Tuesday, targeting the growing compact SUV market.

The Tivoli Air is a long-body version of its popular Tivoli crossover SUV, which was launched early last year. The Tivoli led its domestic and overseas sales throughout last year, raising expectations for the larger-sized family model.

"The Tivoli Air is armed with the unique dynamic style, which evolved from the luxurious and stylish brand of the Tivoli crossover and also boasts more enhanced utility features than other existing 1.7-liter rival models," the company said in a press release.

What is likely to appeal to customers most is its 720-liter luggage space, which is larger than other rival models, the company said. With all the inside seats folded, the luggage space could expand to as large as 1,440 liters.

Its driving performance is another selling point.

The company said that its e-XDi160 diesel engine can produce up to 115 horsepower with a maximum torque of 30.6 kg-meters, enabling strong driving performance at the mostly frequently used rpm range of 1,500-2,500.

Its six-speed auto transmission made by Japan's AISIN also guarantees an "excellent" transmission of power, with its 4WD system allowing for better driving performance both on- and off-road.

Ssangyong Motor said that it applied high tension steel to 71.1 percent of its chassis to enhance overall passenger safety. It used diverse safety features aimed at helping the driver avoid accidents.

As for its design, the front radiator grille gives the impression of a soaring bird, and the barbell-type bumper and the character lines that run on its sides make it appear strong and unique, the company explained.

Prices of the Tivoli Air will range from 19.49 million won

(US$16,241) to 24.49 million won depending on its trims and options. Ssangyong Motor said that its latest model will have price competitiveness over other rival models in the same segment. (Yonhap)