KGM Musso EV: Australia’s First All-Wheel Drive Electric Lifestyle Ute

The 2026 KGM Musso EV represents a landmark moment for the Australian dual-cab market. While heavyweights like Ford and Toyota have been cautious with fully electric entries, KGM (formerly SsangYong) has stolen a march on the competition. Unlike the existing rear-drive-only electric utes, the Musso EV is the first factory-built, conventionally styled electric utility in Australia to offer a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. It’s a "lifestyle" ute based on the refined KGM Torres architecture, meaning it prioritises SUV-like cabin comfort and daily drivability over hardcore 3.5-tonne towing.

The Verdict: The Comfortable Electric Workmate

The Musso EV is a game changer for suburban tradies and weekend adventurers who want a ute but don't need to haul massive excavators. Because it shares its DNA with KGM’s passenger SUVs, it offers a level of interior polish and ride quality that puts many diesel utes to shame. For those in regional areas, the addition of a self-levelling rear suspension is a thoughtful touch, ensuring the vehicle remains balanced even when the tray is loaded with camping gear or tools.

Quick Take:

• The Hook: Australia’s most affordable electric ute with a refined AWD option.

• Price: From $60,000 driveaway (2WD) to $64,000 driveaway (AWD).

• Key Tech: Dual 12.3-inch panoramic screens and V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) capability.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Priced to Compete: At $60k driveaway, it undercuts the LDV eT60 by more than $30,000.	Towing Capacity: Limited to 1,800kg braked, which is significantly less than diesel rivals.
SUV Refinement: The "Slim & Wide" interior design feels more like a luxury car than a work truck.	Ground Clearance: At 181mm, it sits lower than a standard HiLux or Ranger.
All-Wheel Drive: The dual-motor setup provides 266kW of power, out-dragging most diesel utes.	Front-Drive Base: The entry model is front-wheel drive, which is unconventional for a ute.
Battery Peace of Mind: Comes with a massive 10-year / unlimited km battery warranty.	Tyres: Standard tyres are reported to be of poor quality, leading to noise and reduced grip.
Self-levelling rear suspension: The system automatically pumps up the rear end when a load is placed in the tray, preventing rear-end sag and keeping the car balanced.	No Spare Tyre: Only a repair kit is provided, a potential drawback for off-roaders.

Range & Real-World Driving: City vs. Highway

All Musso EV variants use a durable 80.6kWh LFP "Blade" battery supplied by BYD.

• City/Suburban Driving: The 2WD (Front-Drive) variant is the range leader, offering 420km (WLTP). Its regenerative braking paddles allow for efficient stop-start driving through Melbourne's outer suburbs.

• Highway/AWD Driving: The AWD model adds a second motor for serious performance but drops the range to 380km (WLTP).

• Actual Travel Distance: In mixed conditions, expect a real-world range of 320km–350km. Note that towing a heavy trailer will significantly reduce these figures.

Charging & V2L Capability

• DC Fast Charging: KGM claims support for up to 300kW charging, though real-world peaks are closer to 150kW. Expect a 10% to 80% charge in roughly 31–36 minutes.

• V2L (Vehicle-to-Load): Features an external power point, allowing you to run power tools at a job site or a coffee machine while camping, no generator required.

Interior, Infotainment & Connectivity

• Premium Cabin: The interior features heated and ventilated front seats as standard, with the Black Edge edition adding luxury suede & leather-look trim.

• Tech-Heavy Dash: A curved panoramic display houses a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

• Rear Passenger Focus: The rear seats are remarkably spacious for a dual-cab, offering heating for the outer positions and a reclining backrest for better long-distance comfort.

2026 Pricing & Specifications (Australia)

Variant	Drivetrain	Range (WLTP)	Power / Torque	Driveaway Price
Musso EV 2WD	FWD (Single)	420km	152kW / 339Nm	$60,000*
Musso EV Black Edge	FWD (Single)	420km	152kW / 339Nm	$62,000*
Musso EV AWD	AWD (Dual)	380km	266kW / 630Nm	$64,000*

*For more product details and specific state ORC head to: kgm.com.au

• Warranty: 7 Years / Unlimited KM Vehicle Warranty.

• Battery Warranty: 10 Years / Unlimited KM.

Who should buy it?

The KGM Musso EV is for the "lifestyle" ute buyer, the person who wants the utility of a tray and the presence of a 4x4 but spends 90% of their time on sealed roads. It is a fantastic value proposition for families who enjoy outdoor activities and want a quiet, high-tech vehicle that can power their gear.