KGM Rhino – capable, comfortable and full of features

The pick-up market has changed from one of purely working vehicles to one that now encompasses a more mixed, leisure orientated set of buyers. Standard and optional equipment now includes many features found in cars, many of them in luxury models, with ventilated seats, navigation and adaptive cruise control not being unusual on the specification list.

KGM, previously SsangYong, have been progressing their range with a more refined and quality bias for some time and we are seeing the results. The latest Musso Rhino pick-up is an example in point and is very much a top-line model with standard features that put many cars to shame and raises its game against the competition.

Prices start from €45,585/£38,995 with the plus model adding a €1,169/£1,000 premium. Essentially the Rhino+ adds a more capacious load carrying capacity, courtesy of a slightly longer load bed, and an increased payload weight.

While the Rhino may not worry the likes of Ford’s Ranger it does offer an excellent specification for a very competitive price. With suitably rugged looks it comes with selectable all-wheel-drive, including low range, hill descent and hill start. Over a rugged but dry and dusty course the Rhino coped admirably. It’s not meant to be a Land Rover capable off roader, but it’s much more capable than many would imagine.

Standard fare is very generous with everything from Nappa leather seats, heated seats all-round and ventilated front seats to intelligent cruise control, dual zone climate and much more. The interior feels very car like, and not at all utilitarian, with buttons, rotary dials, a touchscreen that offers a simple swipe to access driver safety systems, it’s an object lesson in how to make a vehicle pleasant to drive.

The 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo diesel engine is not the most refined but unless pushed hard is surprisingly smooth. There is no manual gear option but the 6-speed automatic changes smoothly enough and it’s not difficult to keep up with traffic even on faster roads.

On the road the ride is a bit choppy (the Rhino EV rides noticeably smoothly and a report on that will follow next month) although it’s better when cruising and handles particularly well in off-road conditions.

For those not worried by the badge on the bonnet, or the perceived trends as to what is a ‘must buy’, the Rhino offers a superbly well-equipped, capable and price competitive option. Some competitors may be more polished, but KGM has really stepped up its game with the latest Rhino.

Facts at a Glance

• Model: KGM Musso Rhino
• Engine: 2.2-litre turbo-diesel developing 202PS and developing 400Nm of torque.
• Gears: 6-speed automatic, selectable all-wheel-drive with high and low ratio and locking rear differential
• Price: €45,585/£38,995 excl’ VAT
• Performance: Maximum speed 172kph/107mph/3.5 tonne tow capacity/1090kg payload
• Economy: 7.9 litres per 100km/29.6mpg
• Emissions: 252 g/km

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets