Subaru Forester vs KGM Actyon: Do These Underdog SUVs Deserve Your Attention?

The UK SUV market is dominated by household names like Nissan, Ford, and Vauxhall. However, for buyers looking beyond the mainstream, there are intriguing alternatives from more niche manufacturers. Two such options are the Subaru Forester and the KGM Actyon. But do these fringe players have the sensible credentials to compete for a larger slice of the market?

Understanding the Niche SUV Contenders

Before diving into a comparison, it’s helpful to understand the brands involved. Subaru has a loyal following in the UK, built largely on its reputation for durable all-wheel-drive vehicles and rugged engineering. The Forester is the epitome of this philosophy—a practical, go-anywhere estate with SUV styling. KGM, formerly known as SsangYong, rebranded in 2021 and is perhaps the more obscure of the two. The Actyon was a model that embodied the brand's tough, utilitarian image.

The Case for the Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester has long been praised for its no-nonsense approach. Its key selling point is Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which comes as standard. This provides genuine confidence in all weather conditions, making it a compelling choice for drivers in rural areas or those who frequently face challenging driving environments. The Forester is also renowned for its practicality, offering a spacious, well-built interior and a large boot, catering perfectly to family life or outdoor pursuits.

What Makes the Forester Stand Out?

Beyond its standard all-wheel drive, the Forester often features robust boxer engines, which contribute to a low centre of gravity for improved handling. For those prioritising safety, Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology is another significant advantage, offering a suite of collision avoidance features. The Forester builds a strong case as a highly capable and safe family-focused SUV that doesn’t follow the crowd.

The Appeal of the KGM Actyon

The KGM Actyon, while less familiar to many UK buyers, stakes its claim on value and toughness. Traditionally, these vehicles have been offered with robust diesel engines and a capable four-wheel-drive system, positioning them as a budget-friendly workhorse. The Actyon often provided a lot of car for the money, with a focus on functional interior space and towing capability.

Where Does the Actyon Fit In?

The Actyon’s appeal was primarily to buyers seeking utilitarian transport without the premium price tag of more established brands. Its unpretentious design and mechanical simplicity could be seen as virtues for those who value function over form. However, its lower profile means that dealership presence and brand awareness in the UK are more limited compared to Subaru.

Verdict: Which Left-Field SUV Deserves a Higher Profile?

When comparing the Subaru Forester and the KGM Actyon, the question of which deserves a higher profile has a nuanced answer. The Subaru Forester already enjoys a stronger reputation and a more established dealer network in the UK. It justifies its position with proven all-weather capability, excellent safety credentials, and strong reliability, making it a sensible, if unconventional, choice for many.

The KGM Actyon, on the other hand, remains a deeper cut for enthusiasts of true underdog brands. Its value proposition is clear, but its lower profile is a significant hurdle. For it to earn more sales, greater investment in marketing and a broader dealer network would be essential.

Ultimately, while both SUVs operate outside the mainstream, the Subaru Forester presents a more compelling and readily accessible package for the average UK buyer seeking a capable and dependable family SUV. The KGM Actyon, however, serves as a reminder that there are always interesting alternatives for those willing to look beyond the usual suspects.