Korean brand Ssangyong used the CV Show to spread the word about the capabilities of its Musso pick-up truck.
“As a growing brand we’ve got to put ourselves out there,” said Ssangyong Motor UK boss, Nick Laird.
He says supplying 30 Mussos (in mid-specification Rebel trim) this year to road-maintenance organisation Highways England has also helped raise the brand’s profile.
Laird explains Ssangyong has a two-pronged approach to the UK market. The dealer network works through establishing close relationships with local businesses while the importer itself (Ssangyong Motor UK) deals directly with larger fleets.
Although Laird is eager to cast the Musso as a “proper CV” that is “rough, tough and dependable”, he adds that for small business owners who also use it as a family vehicle the fact that it is derived from the Rexton SUV is an attraction in providing a smoother drive and more comfortable interior.
Eight out of 10 Musso customers opt for the automatic derivative, a far higher proportion than with some more traditionally workhorse pick-ups, according to Laird, and he claims this bears testament to its refinement.
The flagship Saracen is the top seller on 65% of the total and for this trim, 90% of sales are with automatic transmission. The entry-level EX is the lowest seller, says Laird.
A long-wheelbase Musso will join the line-up later this year, Laird revealed, adding 40cm to the load bed, bringing it to 1,340cm and 30cm to the wheelbase.
Laird is happy to present Ssangyong as an “honest to goodness value for money” brand and said: “You get a bit more product for a bit less money.”
