Mid-size SUV targets urban drivers with refined ride, high efficiency, and competitive pricing
KG Mobility (KGM) has officially launched pre-orders for the 2026 Actyon Hybrid, a new plugless hybrid SUV designed to provide a more refined and efficient alternative to traditional petrol-powered models in the mid-size segment. Positioned just above the Torres in size, the Actyon Hybrid enters a market crowded with rivals like the Mitsubishi Outlander, Honda CR-V, and MG HS, and aims to stand out through a blend of driving stability, practicality, and competitive value.
This is KGM’s second hybrid release following the Torres Hybrid earlier this year, and it arrives as part of the company’s broader plan to roll out seven new electrified models by 2030, including hybrid, range-extender, and fully electric powertrains. The Actyon Hybrid is also the second vehicle to carry the new KGM branding after the company shed the SsangYong name following its acquisition by South Korean investors.
Powertrain and performance
At the heart of the Actyon Hybrid is a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with KGM’s Dual Tech Hybrid System—a series-parallel dual-motor configuration integrated into an e-DHT (efficiency-focused Dual-motor Hybrid Transmission). Unlike Hyundai-Kia’s clutch-based hybrids, this system allows for smooth transitions across nine driving modes, including EV-only, series, parallel, and hybrid modes.
The vehicle produces a total system output of 130kW and 300Nm, with front-wheel drive as standard. Despite its relatively modest 1.83kWh battery capacity, the Actyon Hybrid can operate in electric-only mode for up to 94 per cent of the time during urban driving conditions (as measured by Korea’s CVS-75 test cycle). KGM claims this allows the vehicle to deliver the quietness and smoothness typically associated with electric vehicles.
Fuel consumption is officially rated at 6.7L/100km under Australian standards, but in Korea, the model achieves 15.0km/L combined (approximately 6.7L/100km), improving to 15.8km/L (around 6.3L/100km) in city conditions with Michelin sound-absorbing tyres. This represents a 36.4% improvement over the petrol Actyon’s fuel economy and up to a 58% improvement in urban driving scenarios—well ahead of the 30% gain typically seen among hybrid competitors with similar wheel setups.
Ride and refinement
To support the hybrid system’s quiet operation, KGM has upgraded noise insulation in the engine bay, fitted sound-absorbing materials around the wheel wells and engine cover, and added frequency-selective damping to the suspension. Buyers can opt for 20-inch Michelin tyres specifically designed to reduce road noise and vibration, further enhancing cabin refinement.
These measures, KGM says, help the Actyon Hybrid achieve what it calls “the most electric hybrid experience” among Korean brands. The vehicle also uses a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) auxiliary battery, designed for long service life, and features a large-capacity 130kW electric motor for stronger performance and dynamic acceleration.
Interior and features
Inside, the Actyon Hybrid offers a 652-litre boot and a spacious, family-oriented cabin with coupe-inspired styling. The hybrid S8 trim includes a 12.3-inch KGM Link navigation system with over-the-air updates, a quilted leather seat package, an eight-airbag safety system, and a smart power tailgate with kick-sensor activation.
Additional features available as options include a 3D Around View Monitor (₩1.1 million), Deep Control Package II with enhanced driver assistance systems (₩650,000), an Alpine premium audio system (₩620,000), panoramic sunroof (₩1.2 million), and two-tone paint package (₩410,000).
Pricing
In its home market, the Actyon Hybrid S8 variant is priced between ₩36.5 million and ₩37.5 million, including eco-friendly tax benefits—translating to approximately A$41,050 to A$42,140. This places the hybrid at only a ₩2 million (around A$2,250) premium over its petrol equivalent, a much smaller price jump than is typical in the segment, where hybrid premiums can exceed ₩4 million (about A$4,500).
While Australian pricing has yet to be confirmed, KGM’s current petrol-only Actyon variants are priced at $47,000 (K50) and $50,000 (K60) drive-away. The hybrid is expected to arrive in Australia in late 2025 or early 2026, with local pricing likely to reflect the added features and powertrain costs.
Looking ahead
The 2026 Actyon Hybrid forms part of KGM’s electrification strategy, which includes co-development of new models with Chinese manufacturer Chery. These efforts aim to challenge the dominance of Hyundai, Kia, and Toyota in the global SUV and crossover space, with KGM banking on practical hybrids like the Actyon to make its case in the Australian and broader Asia-Pacific markets.
