KGM in Korea (formerly SsangYong) has unveiled Musso as a dedicated pickup sub-brand, aiming to consolidate its position as South Korea’s leading pickup manufacturer. The first model under this new branding will be the Musso EV, the country’s first electric pickup, which is set to launch in the first quarter of 2025.

KGM has also teased an upcoming internal combustion engine (ICE) variant, broadening the Musso lineup further.

Musso becomes a pickup sub-brand

KGM will now unify all future pickups under the Musso name, creating a focused identity distinct from its SUV lineup.

Ahead of the arrival of the Kia Tasman, KGM hopes the move will reinforce its reputation as the dominant player in the Korean pickup market, a segment it has led for over two decades with models like the Musso Sports, Actyon Sports, and Rexton Sports.

By leveraging its experience building lifestyle-oriented trucks, KGM intends to position Musso as a brand that balances everyday usability with adventure-ready practicality.

Musso EV: Korea’s first electric pickup

The first vehicle in the Musso lineup, the Musso EV, is an all-electric pickup based on the O100 concept. While official details remain limited, spy shots and early teasers show that it shares design cues with the Torres EVX SUV. The Musso EV retains its SUV sibling’s slim LED headlights and muscular fenders but incorporates a more practical double-cab pickup format.

KGM O100 electric pickup concept to be called Musso EV
KGM O100 concept

The pickup is expected to be offered in multiple configurations, including an all-wheel-drive variant likely featuring dual electric motors. Built on the same underpinnings as the Torres EVX and Actyon SUVs, the Musso EV will have an extended wheelbase and longer rear overhang to accommodate its pickup-specific design.

KGM is touting the Musso EV as an adaptable vehicle, stating that it will be available with various customisation options, including off-road and utility-focused accessories.

Musso ICE version in development

While KGM’s focus is on electrification, the company has confirmed that a conventional ICE-powered Musso is in development. Teaser sketches indicate that this version will feature a more rugged, traditional pickup aesthetic, with design elements such as a large grille, skid plates, and prominent wheel arches. Unlike the Torres EVX, where the electric and ICE models share an almost identical design, the Musso ICE appears to have a distinct visual identity.

KGM Musso pickup sketch will be EV and ICE

The sketches suggest that the Musso ICE is taking some inspiration from US-market trucks, with the LED headlights and bold front fascia resembling those of the Ford F-150. A dual-exhaust setup at the rear emphasises its internal combustion powertrain.

Teaser sketches also reveal an overlanding conversion, suggesting KGM will offer modular options tailored to different buyers.

While the launch date for the ICE version remains uncertain, it is expected to replace the current Rexton Sports and Musso models, which are set to end production in 2025. This suggests a possible market introduction around 2026.

KGM executives have emphasised that Musso will continue the legacy of its predecessors while embracing modern demands. “With this brand launch, we will once again set a new benchmark as the leader in K-pickups,” a company spokesperson stated. “We will continue the Musso tradition by developing and expanding a diverse portfolio of pickup lineups in the future.”

Phil Huff
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