KGM Musso Ultimate: 2025’s Best 4x4 Ute Under $60K

The switch from SsangYong to KGM marks a new chapter for the Musso, but underneath the branding update lies the same reliable, well-rounded 4×4 ute that’s quietly earned a loyal following among Aussie buyers.

For years, the Musso has flown under the radar, consistently delivering value, capability and comfort that rivals often struggle to match – particularly in the under-$60K segment. While many mainstream utes have crept up in price as manufacturers chase ever-higher specifications, the Musso has held its ground.

It may not be the flashiest ute on the market, but it offers a balanced package of space, equipment and towing ability that appeals to buyers who need a practical workhorse during the week and a comfortable, tech-equipped family vehicle on the weekend.

That combination of affordability, capability and thoughtful equipment is exactly why the Musso claims our Best 4×4 Ute Under $60K award for 2025 – proving that even an older platform can still deliver serious value in today’s competitive 4×4 ute market.

JUMP AHEAD

• Key highlights
• How it drives
• Engine and towing performance
• Specs
• Verdict

Big ute with luxe features

One of the Musso’s enduring strengths is how much physical ute you get for the money. Its footprint is generous, and so is its spec sheet. The cabin is genuinely roomy and surprisingly upmarket for the price. Most competitors don’t offer this level of kit until well beyond the $60K mark.

Highlights include:

• Black interior highlights and leather-look upholstery
• 8-way power-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats
• Heated rear outer seats
• Dual 12.3-inch screens (multimedia + driver display)
• 3D 360° camera
• Powered sunroof
• TPMS

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How it drives: On- and off-road

The Musso Ultimate drives with more refinement than its price suggests, delivering a quiet, stable cabin and predictable steering.

The 2.2‑litre turbo-diesel isn’t explosive, but paired with the Aisin automatic it provides smooth, usable power for overtaking, towing and everyday driving. Suspension is firm but controlled, giving the ute a planted feel at speed, while the generous interior, comfortable seats and minimal wind and tyre noise make long trips far less taxing than many other budget-based dual-cabs.

On the dirt and off-road tracks of the test loop, the Musso Ultimate remained honest within its limitations. Its part-time 4×4 system with low-range gearing, solid ground clearance and generous torque allowed it to tackle rutted tracks and steep inclines with confidence. The chassis and suspension feel robust, though it’s not a sophisticated off-road suspension set-up like more expensive rivals – so ride harshness is noticeable over corrugations.

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Engine and towing: modest outputs, big numbers

Under the bonnet is KGM’s familiar 2.2-litre single-turbo diesel producing 133kW at 4000rpm and 400Nm of torque. It’s not a powerhouse, but paired with the Aisin automatic, it’s dependable and capable.

Where the Musso surprises is its load-hauling ability with a caravan hooked up behind it. With a GCM of 6480kg and a kerb weight of around 2200kg, it can tow its full 3500kg capacity while still retaining roughly 750kg of remaining GCM headroom – something many rivals simply can’t match. However, as Tim explains, the Musso’s 2.2L diesel had to work extremely hard.

“The 2000kg trailer put a lot of strain on the 133kW 2.2L diesel – so much so, I could smell it was getting a bit hot, so I took it easy. Maybe it was taking it easy that did it, but the Musso was one of the most efficient for fuel use when towing. I saw around 12L/100km on our loop,” – Tim Van Duyl

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Why it wins

The Musso takes out our Best 4×4 Ute Under $60K title because it delivers genuine substance where it matters: Price, equipment and capability.

• Value for money: Sits comfortably under $60K MLRP while offering a spec sheet rivals struggle to match.
• Well-equipped: Heated/ventilated seats, dual 12.3-inch screens, 360-degree camera and more.
• Towing practicality: High GCM allows full 3500kg towing while retaining payload capacity.

Yes, it’s built on an older platform and the dealer network isn’t as extensive as mainstream brands. But judged purely on what you get for the price, the Musso provides more equipment, comfort, practicality and capability than anything else in this bracket – and that’s why it wins.