Musso means ‘rhino’ in the Korean language and, with when it comes to the rebranded KGM vehicle that bears the name, this is one manufacturer that is most certainly on the charge
Features at a glance
- Full 5-year, 100,000–mile warranty.
- 1-tonne+ payload in short bed and long bed variants and 3.5 towing capability on automatic transmission models.
- Available in four trim levels – EX, Rebel and Saracen, and the extended bed Saracen+ with the longest and largest load bed in the UK market.
- Nappa leather interior, heated steering wheel, heated seats and best in class rear set leg room.
If in the context of commercial vehicles KGM is a new name to you then you’re not alone. Behind that relatively unheralded moniker is, however, a solid 70 years of experience and it’s a heritage that is exemplified in the product itself. Professional Builder has, in fact, been in possession of a KGM Musso Saracen+ for some three months now and it’s proven to be a very useful addition to the team.
This is a pick-up that sits boldly on the road and its imposing exterior styling, complete with a prominent chrome grill and 18in. black alloy wheels on the Saracen+, eloquently communicates robustness. That’s a theme which is continued in the performance with a 1-tonne+ payload (1,250kg on the Saracen+) and a 3.5tonne towing capacity on the automatic model, coming together to present a very builder-friendly proposition. Indeed, one unusual feature of note is the ability to carry the maximum weight whilst also towing to the vehicle’s full capacity. That means – that at a combined 6,900kg – the top spec model we reviewed can boast the highest total load prowess in the pick up sector
Our Musso Saracen+ test vehicle also has the longest load bed in the range – and what the manufacturer describes as the largest cargo area in the market – with an expanse of durable load liner extending to 5,405mm in length with the added practicality of rotating tie down points.
All that heavy lifting is nicely contrasted with some easier living in the cab. The Saracen+ features convenient side steps that will lift you into an agreeably high driving position where you are greeted with Nappa leather heated seats, and a heated leather steering wheel – a very welcome winter warmer for anyone in the trades. A 12.3in. touchscreen keeps you on track through TomTom navigation and equally entertained with DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity and Apple CarPlay or Google Android Auto.
Front and rear parking sensors should help navigate tight sites, and there’s the additional reassurance of a rear-view camera. Added to that is automatic dual zone air-conditioning which can be set to the level that suits both driver and passenger. Moreover, the manufacturer has worked hard to reduce levels of noise and vibration in the cab, all of which adds up to a very inviting space that can function as a mobile office, retreat from the on-site elements, or as a capable family car.
For a vehicle with such an imposing presence there’s an impressive level of power at your disposal. The 2.2litre, 202PS drivetrain, delivers 441Nm of torque and certainly doesn’t shirk when you put your foot down. At the same time, the gear change on the 6-speed automatic transmission is satisfyingly smooth. The selectable 4×4 features a low ratio that will be more than adequate for a builder’s purposes and then some. Indeed, if you are planning on venturing amongst the really rough stuff then this is actually a very capable off–road vehicle, with a 4-wheel drive system that further benefits from hill start control and hill start assist
Full LED headlamps light your way and there’s a whole array of safety features, including a Brake Assist System, Safety Exit Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Trailer sway control. There’s no less than six air bags, with impact absorbing elements in the steering wheel and steering column.
Aside from the Saracen+ the Musso line-up includes three further trims – the entry level EX, mid-spec Rebel, and Saracen. The entire range was given a ground-up overhaul in 2018, with further stylistic enhancements coming in 2023. Pick-ups are almost unique in the automotive market in that they are required to fulfil a number of contrasting roles and that includes a site-based LCV as well as leisure vehicle. Consumers are more discerning than ever and are unwilling to accept any compromise on any of those functions. The Musso range, with the Saracen+ at its apex, manages to deliver on all counts. This rhino is eminently comfortable as a beast of burden but is a whole other animal when it comes to creature comforts.
For further information on the KGM Musso Saracen+ visit KGM Musso Saracen+ | Extended Loadbed & Wheelbase | KGM Motors UK (kgm-motors.co.uk).
