The Musso nameplate has been around for a while, mostly under its former manufacturer, SsangYong. Still adorning the now KGM diesel offering, it’s also found its way onto an EV, with the electric ute available in 2WD and AWD variants.
We recently drove the former in various conditions, and found ourselves both surprised and confused by the offering. Despite a proper off road look at the front, it features a well appointed cabin, a tradie-style tray, and yet is best suited to the blacktop.
The front end has a lot going on. The black bumper and grill is segmented with red tow hooks, LED headlights and full width daytime running lights. The latter forms part of some fanfare that includes music when you lock and unlock the car.
The bonnet has some grab handles in case you need to go full James Bond or Ethan Hunt when someone tries to steal your ute, in a package that’s nothing if not different. A larger pillar defines the rear section of the vehicle.
It features a chrome rhinoceros silhouette (Musso in Korean), and another grab handle. And then there’s the tray. It has a useful liner, tie downs and a convenient light. The KGM debossed tailgate has dampers for easy operation and built in side steps.
The monocoque platform transfers into 1,800kg towing capacity and self-leveling coil suspension system. The Musso has a respectable 905kg payload. But for all the oddity outside, it’s inside where the KGM ute shines.
Easy access, plenty of room, a flat rear passenger floor and flexibility. Striking features include 8-way electric faux leather heated and ventilated front seats, which offer a comfortable and premium feel.
The flying buttress centre console area houses two well located coffee holders, a useful under storage area and a wireless phone charger. The doors have bottle holders and there are plenty of other storage opinions.
The gear change switch is minimal and could be a lesson to others that simple design is sometimes the best. The back seat is heated and has a selectable read/sleep mode to mute the rear speakers.
From the driver’s seat, the curved twin 12.3-inch dual infotainment system and instrument cluster are nicely integrated, well balanced and function very well. A heated steering wheel has been crafted to allow maximum visibility of the dash.
Connection to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is easy and intuitive. The sound system is easy to navigate and is in line with the price point. The 360-degree camera and rear view camera are very effective. Safety features are plentiful and are generally well sorted.
As with a number of such systems, lane change assist is a bit over exuberant. On the road, the Musso EV is a pleasure to drive. It handles like a car. The electric drivetrain is smooth when in motion, but does suffer a little lag at takeoff.
The single-motor 2WD version offers 152kW of power and 339Nm of torque. Paddles adjust the regenerative braking, which is great on hilly roads. On a full charge, the Musso is capable of driving up to 420km without plugging in.
The 80.9kWh lithium iron phosphate battery unit, when charged via a 300kW fast charger, can go from 10-80 per cent in 36 minutes (according to KGM). It has V2L too, which is particularly good when camping.
The wheel and tyre combo, framed by plastic wheel arches, suits the car looks-wise, but the rubber itself can lose traction easily in the wet. That aside, it’s a decent package, that just needs better boots.
In a market where dual‑cab utes are practically a way of life, the Musso EV fills a unique space, offering practicality and the reduced costs of running an electric drivetrain. It should appeal to families and small business owners, particularly those looking to reduce costs.
The 2026 KGM Musso EV is available in Grand White, Amazonian Green, Marble Grey, Blazing Gold, Space Black, and Ultra Marine. If you want to make more of a statement, add $2,000 for the Black Edge package. There’s a bunch of other accessories too.
Priced at $60,000 drive away, it’s backed by a 7-year unlimited kilometre warranty. You can find out more on the KGM website, or by talking to your local dealership. To get a low rate finance quote, talk to Australia’s best reviewed car finance broker; Credit One.
To see a great range of vehicles for sale, check out OnlyCars.com.au.
Our test vehicle was provided by KGM Australia for independent review purposes. Exhaust Notes Australia has not been paid to review this vehicle.
Good review! The 2026 KGM Musso EV 2WD appears to be a good option for environmentally responsible driving without compromising functionality. Clearly stated and simple to comprehend.