SsangYong Musso pickup debuts at Geneva with Rexton underpinnings
The new SsangYong Musso pickup, sharing its platform and powertrain with the Rexton SUV, has been unveiled at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show targeting European buyers.
SsangYong has brought its new Musso pickup to the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, aiming to establish a stronger foothold in the European commercial vehicle market. The Musso, which means rhinoceros in Korean, arrives with a focus on durability and practicality, underpinned by the same architecture as the Rexton SUV.
Built on a body-on-frame chassis, the Musso uses high-strength 1.5GPa steel in its frame for the first time in a SsangYong pickup, which the company says improves rigidity while reducing weight. The truck is powered by the e-XDi220 2.2-litre diesel engine, producing 178hp and 400Nm of torque. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or an Aisin-supplied six-speed automatic gearbox.
Practicality and equipment
Payload capacity is rated at one tonne, and the load bed is sized to accept a standard European pallet. The Musso seats five and is pitched as a workhorse with a few upmarket touches. Higher trim levels offer Nappa leather upholstery, an 8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB radio, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi screen mirroring.
Position in the market
By launching the Musso, SsangYong is targeting both private and commercial buyers who need a robust pickup with SUV-derived comfort. The Musso will compete against established European and Japanese rivals, with its value proposition resting on equipment and practicality rather than outright brand cachet. For more on rival pickups previewed for Geneva, see the Facelifted Renault Duster Pickup Rendered Online Ahead of Geneva.
- Body-on-frame construction with high-strength steel
- Five-seat cabin with upmarket features on top trims
- Targeted at European buyers needing a practical workhorse
