Ssangyong Musso

We try early version of new pick-up

We run the rule over early model of new pick-up truck

THE pick-up market is gaining traction. Everyone from Mitsubishi to Mercedes has an offering, and now Ssangyong’s got a new contender, too.

The 2018 Musso is a stablemate to the latest Rexton, boasting the same body-on-frame architecture and 179bhp 2.2-litre diesel engine. It also lifts its interior from Ssangyong’s large SUV.

Our early UK review was in a preproduction, left-hand-drive model badged Rexton Sport, equipped and trimmed for its native Korean market. Mechanically, though, it’s exactly what we’ll get when the truck arrives in June.

The test car was representative of the top-end spec, and as a result, is likely to cost a few thousand pounds more than the £18,000 estimate. But with 20-inch wheels and LED daytime running lights, it’s not short of sparkle. The cabin feels fresh and impressive for the class, too.

Although specs have to be finalised, mid-range and flagship Mussos will have an eight-inch infotainment system, with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, while a reversing camera can also be linked up.

The rear bench feels spacious, and as with many rivals, the truck has been designed to carry a standard Euro pallet. With lots of fastening points and a 12V socket, the load deck ticks all the boxes.

Power is delivered smoothly and the truck will tow a 3.5-tonne trailer, but it isn’t great to drive, even by pick-up standards. Its steering is lifeless and you find yourself taking vague swings at bends. The ride is choppy, too, although the Ssangyong should at least feel more settled with some weight in the back.

Also, the Musso’s claimed 32.8mpg falls short of the class average. The sixspeed manual is more efficient (35.8mpg) than the auto, but the CO2 gains will be irrelevant for business users; pick-ups are subject to a flat-rate Benefit-in-kind tax.