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By Jonathan Crouch

Top 'Rhino' versions of KGM's Musso pick-up get a smarter look and a plush cabin. Jonathan Crouch takes a closer look.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 81

Top 'Rhino' versions of KGM's Musso pick-up continue to try and redefine the value proposition for customers in this segment and provide them with rugged but car-like transport. Attractions include a seven year warranty and the diesel powertrain's impressive combined payload and towing capacity. There's the option of a long wheelbase 'Long-bed' 'Rhino+' variant at the top of the range. If you're buying at the plush end of this sector, you probably won't have been considering a Musso. Perhaps you should.

Backgroundword count: 118

If you're looking for a pick-up truck plush enough to live with every day, as many owner-driver business users are, then you might have been a bit shocked by the asking prices of better-equipped versions of mainstream players in this segment. The KGM Musso has always been a more affordable choice, but its whiff of 'bargain basement' previously put plenty of would-be customers off. Those people might like to look again at the updated version we look at here, which in its top 'Rhino' and 'Rhino+' forms gets the smarter, more angular styling and updated cabin we first saw in the all-electric Musso EV. These 'Rhino' models stick with KGM's familiar 2.2-litre diesel. Let's take a closer look.

Driving Experienceword count: 196

Both Musso 'Rhino' models are powered by KGM's usual 2.2 litre e-XDi diesel engine, producing 202PS at 3,800rpm and 400Nm of torque from 1,400 to 2,800rpm. Paired with an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain aims to deliver strong low-speed pulling power, refined everyday performance and the confidence required for towing, load carrying and demanding terrain. Both 'Rhino' variants are equipped with selectable 4x4 and low range, allowing drivers to switch between 2WD high range, 4WD high range and 4WD low range depending on road, weather and off-road conditions. Hill start assist and hill descent control further support driver confidence, while the locking differential helps the vehicle regain traction on mud, snow and other slippery surfaces. In 'Rhino' form, this KGM offers 245mm of minimum ground clearance, with a 30.9 degree approach angle and a 27.8 degree departure angle. The Rhino+ provides 248mm of minimum ground clearance, with a 30.6 degree approach angle and a 24.5 degree departure angle. Towing strength remains one of Musso's defining attributes, with both 'Rhino' and 'Rhino+' models offering a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, supported by trailer sway control, rear-view camera, Clear Sight View and a 360-degree 3D surround view monitoring system.

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