KGM Torres Hybrid: The missing piece arrives with BYD technology
The KGM Torres is a respectable-sized SUV (measuring 4.70 meters long) that debuted on the market with a groundbreaking, 4x4-style design, plenty of roominess, and a very attractive price. But it launched with a 163-litre gasoline version, with front- or all-wheel drive, that offered just enough power and fueled too much. Nor did the bi-fuel versions, which can use LPG and carry the ECO label, provide the necessary boost. The same thing happened with the 100% electric version, but what can we tell you about that technology?
The transition from SsanYong (the old brand) to KGM (the new one) may also have confused customers. Be that as it may, only 411 units were sold in 2024, and so far in 2025, 249 cars have been sold (31% less than in the first nine months of last year).
All that could change with the arrival of this Hybrid version, which represents an unprecedented technological leap forward , incorporating a state-of-the-art electrified system developed with a luxury partner: BYD .
As with the electric Torres EVX, the Korean company has relied on BYD, a world leader in electrification, to create the Torres HEV's hybrid system. The system combines a specially tuned 150 hp 1.5-liter turbocharged Miller-cycle gasoline engine, combined with a 177 hp electric motor with 300 Nm of torque. The combined power output is 204 hp , ensuring outstanding performance, with a top speed of up to 180 km/h.
However, the main argument is efficiency, with an average fuel consumption of 5.8 l/100 km, which is 28% less than the manual gasoline engine and 36% less than the automatic 4x4. This is mainly due to the operation of the system itself, which operates both in series and parallel, ensuring that, whenever possible, the electric motor drives the wheels, with the gasoline engine acting as a generator. During peak demand, the combustion engine provides support, although it can also operate independently.
Big batteryAll of this is made possible by a 1.84 kWh battery with NMC chemistry developed by Sunwoga (which supplies the iPhone batteries). It's significantly larger than the one used by direct rivals like the Toyota RAV4 (1.6 kWh) or the Hyundai Tucson (1.4 kWh).
The result: a system that allows for up to 94% of city driving time in electric mode, with seamless transitions between modes and a complete absence of vibrations. Power delivery is smooth and very progressive, while driving refinement is superior even to many Japanese and Chinese rivals, thanks to the contained noise and soundproofing materials specific to this version.
Whether in a fuel consumption test like the one we performed during the first part of the tour, or in normal driving, the system stands out for its refinement and good sound insulation. Furthermore, it's enough to accelerate strongly to notice how the two engines work together and the car continues to gain speed. No less important is the brake regeneration system with paddle shifters, unusual among its rivals, with up to three levels, although none of them with a one-pedal effect.
The e-DHT transmission is particularly pleasant: it simulates virtual gears, avoids the "belt" effect of CVT shifts in other hybrid solutions, and responds immediately, while the additional weight of the hybrid system doesn't penalize agility, allowing direct steering response and sufficient stability for any terrain. It's true that its focus is primarily on road use, geared toward comfort, with an independent suspension (McPherson strut front, multi-link rear) with specific shock absorbers that exemplarily isolate ground irregularities and provide its passengers with plenty of comfort regardless of the terrain.
There are three driving modes (ECO, Comfort, Sport ) that considerably vary the car's character, and although it's not available with all-wheel drive, it maintains its excellent off-road attributes, with a ground clearance of 18 cm and approach, departure, and breakover angles of 17.8, 18.6, and 21.8 degrees, respectively. However, we've left its best feature for last: fuel consumption . From around 6.3 l/100 km in relaxed driving, this can be reduced to less than 5.4 l/100 km if we push the figure (this is the figure we achieved in the aforementioned fuel consumption test, where we finished second, one-tenth behind the winner, and with 44% electric motor usage).
The Torres Hybrid remains unchanged on the outside: square lines, a rugged appearance, and a striking front end with a vertical grille dominated by six vertical slats and LED daytime running lights. The nod to classic off-road vehicles is evident, though modernized with chrome details, large hood handles, a red trailer trim, and a highly recognizable rear end thanks to the spare tire-like cover . Two wheel options (17" and 18"), as well as a six-tone color palette, add a touch of customization.
However, it's inside where the most changes occur, continuing the aesthetic and quality path perceived in the EVX: a curved panoramic screen that brings together two 12.3" monitors, with new graphics, wireless synchronization with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and integration of the climate control in the center console, eliminating the lower display of the gasoline model. In fact, the evolution is such that there are almost no physical buttons anymore.
There are no changes to the ergonomics and roominess, features in which it already excelled. The rear seats are extremely spacious, and the trunk is enormous, with 839 liters up to the roof.
The lowest priceThe Torres HEV is positioned as the most affordable D-segment hybrid SUV on the market, thanks to its starting price of €31,500, including campaigns, or €28,800, which can be converted to €28,800 with financing. This price corresponds to the Trend trim level, which is also super-complete, adding dual-zone climate control, sensors and a camera, 17" wheels, a fully digital instrument panel, seven airbags, and all the essential safety features.
If we focus on the most successful rivals, it is 8,700 euros more affordable than the Renault Espace, 7,200 euros cheaper than the Toyota RAV4 or 5,150 euros cheaper than the Nissan X-Trail and even less expensive than the Hyundai Tucson, KIA Sportage or the recently presented MG HS Hybrid+, which boasts of being one of the most democratic.
That said, it seems like the most balanced option for those looking for a large hybrid SUV that's economical to own and operate. Its comfort, cutting-edge technology, and ECO label make it a smart buy, both in terms of price and versatility.
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