Calling all ute enthusiasts! Let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Ssangyong Musso, a Korean contender vying for a slice of the highly competitive Aussie ute market. Known for its affordability and impressive features, the Musso might just surprise you.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Value for Money: The Musso offers excellent bang for your buck, especially when compared to some of its pricier competitors.
• Long Warranty and Affordable Servicing: SsangYong backs the Musso with a generous warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers.
• Bigger, Crisper Screens: The updated model features larger screens, enhancing the infotainment experience.
• Adventure Model: The Adventure variant strikes a balance between work-focused practicality and premium features.

Cons

• Halogen Headlights: Unless you opt for the top-spec model, you’ll be stuck with halogen headlights.
• Safety Kit Variability: Lower models miss out on some safety features, so choose wisely.
• Lap-Only Centre Rear Seatbelt: An odd choice in a modern vehicle.

How Much Does It Cost?

The beauty of the Musso lies in its budget-friendly price tag. Starting at a very attractive $40,000 drive-away for the base ELX model, the Musso undercuts many of its mainstream rivals. Prices climb steadily as you move up the trim ladder, reaching $49,500 for the top-of-the-line Ultimate XLV with the Luxury Pack.

Features and Benefits

• Infotainment: Dual 12.3-inch widescreen displays grace the cabin, making the Musso feel more like an SUV than a traditional ute.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: High-resolution, customizable, and standard across the range.
• Ownership Promise: SsangYong’s warranty and affordable servicing contribute to long-term satisfaction.

Safety

While the Musso offers decent safety features, it’s essential to note that lower models lack some advanced systems. Buyers should weigh this against their priorities.

A Balanced Blend of Utility and Comfort

Running Costs

The Musso packs a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine under the hood, offering a decent 133kW of power and a gutsy 420Nm of torque. While not the most powerful engine on the block, it delivers enough grunt for most everyday tasks, including towing a trailer or hauling a load in the tray. Ssangyong claims a combined fuel economy of 8.6L/100km, which is respectable for a ute.

The Competition: Standing Out from the Crowd

The Musso faces some serious competition in the Australian ute market. Big names like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux dominate the scene, offering a wider range of engines, potentially better resale value, and a more established brand presence. However, the Musso counters with its significant price advantage and impressive feature set.

Conclusion

A Value-Packed Option for the Savvy Aussie

The 2024 Ssangyong Musso might not be the first name that pops into your head when considering a ute, but it deserves a serious look. It offers exceptional value for money, a comfortable ride, a long list of features, and a generous warranty. While it might not have the brand recognition of some competitors, the Musso is a compelling option for budget-conscious ute buyers who prioritize features and functionality.

Rating: 7.5/10

The Musso is a great ute for the price, but a single engine option and a less established brand hold it back from achieving a perfect score. However, for the value-seeker who wants a feature-rich and capable ute, the Musso is definitely worth a test drive.