For decades, the SsangYong Musso has been a familiar sight in Australian garages. Now rebranded as KGM (formerly KG Mobility), the Musso EV represents the automaker’s first major step into electrification, and a bid to redefine value in the Australian ute market. The 2026 model is positioned as the most affordable electric dual-cab ute currently available, but its long-term success will depend on whether it can shake off the brand’s turbulent past and deliver a compelling package to buyers.
From Diesel Roots to Electric Ambition
The original Musso gained traction in the 1990s with its rugged build and access to Mercedes-Benz diesel engines. Later, it evolved into a capable dual-cab ute, earning trust through competitive pricing and spacious interiors. However, years of financial instability threatened the brand’s survival until its recent acquisition by the KG Group. Now, the Musso EV marks a new era – though its development clearly predates the rebrand.
Price and Positioning
At its current price point, the KGM Musso EV is the cheapest electric ute on the Australian market. However, this title may not last, as several competitors are on the horizon. The model is available in both front-wheel drive (2WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with the AWD variant tested here offering more power but slightly less payload capacity (805kg vs. 902kg for the 2WD).
Inside the Cabin: Modern Yet Compromised
One of the key strengths of the previous Musso was its spacious cabin, which outsized many Japanese competitors. The EV version, however, features a smaller interior – a move likely driven by cost considerations. While the cabin is brighter and more modern, it sacrifices some of the practicality that made the old Musso appealing. A dual-screen setup integrates a 12.3-inch infotainment system with a matching digital instrument cluster, minimizing physical controls.
Despite the modern aesthetics, the interior feels cheaper than its predecessor, with hollow materials and rushed development evident in details like poorly sized cupholders and a rear windscreen that reflects distracting brake lights. The lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto at this price point is also a glaring omission.
Performance and Battery Life
The Musso EV offers two powertrain options: a single-motor 152kW/339Nm (2WD) and a dual-motor 266kW/630Nm (AWD). Both versions use an 80.6kWh battery, providing a range of 420km for the 2WD and 380km for the AWD model. KGM claims fast-charging capabilities (20-80% in under 30 minutes on a 300kW DC charger), though availability of such chargers in Australia remains limited. The vehicle also supports vehicle-to-load (V2L) charging, allowing owners to power external devices.
On the road, the EV handles better than the previous ladder-frame ute, with lighter steering and a smoother ride. However, it doesn’t excel in off-road performance, positioning it more as a lifestyle vehicle than a rugged workhorse. The AWD version offers increased power but lacks the raw torque of traditional diesel utes, and the auto brake hold system can cause slight delays when accelerating.
Standard Features and Safety
The Musso EV comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, self-leveling rear suspension, dual-zone climate control, and a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking. The vehicle has not yet been tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP, but it includes eight airbags and a surround-view camera.
Ownership Costs and Reliability
KGM offers a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty with a separate 10-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty on the battery. Service intervals are every 20,000km or 12 months, with fixed-price servicing ranging from $215 to $498 per visit. Energy consumption is rated at 23kWh/100km for the 2WD and 26kWh/100km for the AWD.
The Verdict
The KGM Musso EV is a bold move for a brand still recovering from financial turmoil. While it delivers on price, several compromises – including a smaller cabin, cheaper interior materials, and questionable design choices – hold it back from being a true game-changer. The EV may find a niche among buyers prioritizing affordability and modern features, but its long-term success will depend on KGM’s ability to address these shortcomings and build trust in its new era.
The Musso EV is a step in the right direction, but it still feels like a work in progress. Buyers should weigh its value proposition carefully against competitors before making a decision.
