In a notable achievement for the revitalized KGM Motors UK—formerly known as SsangYong—the KGM Musso has been nominated in Diesel & Eco’s esteemed annual “Top 50 Diesel Car” shortlist. This recognition arrives as the brand commemorates its 70th anniversary with the unveiling of a special edition: the Musso Saracen “Platinum.” Celebrating the pinnacle of new diesel vehicles on the market, this nomination underscores KGM’s commitment to performance, design, and capability in the competitive pickup truck segment.
Exclusive Commemoration
The Musso Saracen Platinum is more than just a vehicle; it represents a fusion of style, functionality, and exclusivity. Priced at £34,995, exclusive of VAT, this limited-edition model is capped at just 70 units, ensuring that owners possess a piece of automotive history. Available in elegant Marble Grey and Grand White, the Saracen Platinum is adorned with a suite of enhancements designed to elevate both aesthetics and functionality. Among the standout features are an electric roll-top cover with remote control, robust matt black sports styling bars, extended wheel arches, and sleek sidesteps, complemented by a distinctive Musso skid plate.
The model is finished with exclusive Saracen Platinum decals, a unique numbered interior badge, and a commemorative keyring to signify each vehicle’s individuality. Under the hood, the Musso Saracen is powered by a formidable 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, delivering 199 bhp and paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission, making it a true contender in the diesel landscape.
Advanced Features and Comfort
The interior of the Musso Saracen Platinum reflects a dedication to comfort and advanced technology. It features luxurious Nappa leather seats, with both front and rear seats heated, and ventilated front seating for optimal comfort in any climate. The cabin is outfitted with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an equally sized touchscreen, integrating a TomTom navigation system along with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity for seamless smartphone integration. Additional amenities such as dual-zone climate control and a heated steering wheel further enhance the driving experience, making every journey a pleasure.
The Standard Musso Range
Beyond the special edition, the standard Musso range offers versatile options across three trim levels. Beginning with the manual-only EX and progressing to the auto-exclusive Rebel, Saracen, and Saracen+ models, the Musso strikes a balance between functionality and bold styling. The Saracen+ boasts an extended cab, providing additional space while holding the title for the best combined towing and payload figures in the UK market. This impressive capability solidifies the Musso’s standing as a significant player in the competitive pickup truck sector.
A Testament to Performance
The Musso has been lauded for its exceptional value and performance, as highlighted by Kevin Griffin, Managing Director of KGM Motors UK. “We are honoured that Musso has been shortlisted in the prestigious Top 50 issue of Diesel & Eco Car magazine. This nomination reinforces our dedication to delivering vehicles that excel in overall performance, design, and capability.” The Musso’s impressive specifications include a maximum payload exceeding 1,000 kg (1,200 kg for the Saracen+) and a towing capacity of 3,500 kg across automatic models. With advanced driving aids like trailer sway control, traction control, and hill start assist, it is engineered to tackle demanding tasks with ease.
Award-Winning Legacy
The Musso’s excellence has not gone unnoticed, accumulating numerous accolades over the years. It received the What Car? Best Payload Award in 2021 and 2022, was recognized as 4×4 Magazine’s Best Value Pick-Up for 2024, and named Carbuyer’s Top Pick-Up for 2023. Furthermore, the Musso LWB earned the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Towcar of the Year 2022 in the pick-up category, further solidifying its reputation as a reliable and high-performing vehicle.
As KGM Motors UK continues to innovate and redefine its offerings, the nomination of the Musso Saracen Platinum in Diesel & Eco’s “Top 50 Diesel Car” shortlist exemplifies the brand’s commitment to excellence. With its rich legacy and modern enhancements, the Musso is poised to remain a formidable contender in the pickup truck market, appealing to consumers who seek reliability, performance, and luxury in one compelling package.
