BUDGET BEATER

IF YOU DON’T NEED THE BIGGER TRAY OF THE XLV, THEN THE STANDARD MUSSO 4X4 UTE COULD BE JUST THE RIG FOR YOU. AND IT COMES AT A PRICE THAT CAN’T BE BEATEN.

- MATT RAUDONIKIS

WE’VE been impressed lately with the long wheel-base SsangYong Musso XLV that launched in Australia midway through 2019. So much so that we thought we should take another look back at the SWB Musso that has been with us a while longer.

While the refined driveline, spacious cabin and great value for money are the key things that have impressed us with the Musso, the locally developed optional suspension package is the icing on the cake, giving the Korean pick-up more ground clearance, better suspension control and improved off-road ability.

Last month we tested the Musso XLV with the Ironman 4x4-developed suspension kit, as well as a host of other quality factory accessories, but were yet to drive the standard wheelbase model with it. So here we have the short wheelbase Musso in base-spec EX manual trim. At just $30,490 driveaway, it is a great value ute to base a build on.

IRONMAN SPRUNG

THIS Musso has been fitted with the Ironman 4x4 springs to give it the needed 30 to 35mm of lift, but not the full kit that also would include shock absorbers. Other extras include the black sports bar, tonneau cover, 18-inch alloys with AT tyres, floor mats, and a front underbody protection plate that also comes from Ironman 4x4 and is being evaluated to become a factory-offered accessory.

Even with these accessories on-board, the Musso is still driveaway for around $36K, which is outstanding value. Especially when you consider SsangYong’s seven-year warranty, roadside assist and capped-price servicing package, which is standard on all new models.