1997 SsangYong Musso Verse 5 review from Australia and New Zealand
"Unique to the eyes, luxurious and powerful performance, excellent value"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Automatic transmission overhaul at 120000Kms, - clutch for reverse gear broke. Transmission overhaul cost $3500Aud.
1 of 3 Ignition coil packs required replacement at 135000Kms. Individual Coil pack cost $250Aud (x3)
General comments?
The SsangYong Musso is a great all round wagon.
An unusual looking car that was ridiculed for its design in the mid 90s, but fits in better with todays 4WDs and SUVs modern styling.
Originally styled by a Bentley Designer, it used Mercedes-Benz components, and was assembled in Korea by SsangYong (and later sold to Daewoo) Simple!
Although the automatic transmission clutch failed at 120000kms, this is NOT a common problem with the Mercedes designed 4speeds.
The Musso may lack that finished build quality you may expect from a similar model Hilux-Surf or Landcruiser, however it makes up for it with a high level of technology, luxury and performance not found in its competitors.
The Mercedes-Benz 3.2L In-Line 6 cylinder gives great smooth power, and the fuel consumption is fair for a 2 tonne car with this engine style. (450Kms / 65 Litres)
Off-road the Musso is a worthy contender, constant AWD with High/Low range and auto steep decent.
Comfortable and fair ground clearance.
The Musso is a purpose built SUV, luxurious and suited for everyday city driving and capable of serious 4WD work.
However most Musso's age may affect their reliability and I wouldn't be driving anywhere isolated where a life may depend on the vehicle.
But I guess that could be said for any 10 year older car.
Overall the Musso is a great value AWD SUV to buy (New or Used), and parts are fairly priced considering the vehicle uses a lot of genuine Mercedes parts.
But beware the scarce lack of dealerships and parts outlets in Australia.
You can find parts through some Mercedes-Benz dealers, but they are often reluctant to help you as they see the Mussos as a "naughty stepchild" to the Benz family.
Do a little bit of research and this car will score a 10/10.
Features including:
ABS.
Traction Control.
Cruise Control (!Auto only)
Constant AWD - electronic High/Low range.
Mercedes-Benz designed Motors and Transmission.
Central locking.
Power Windows.
Leather Seats.
Wood-grain look dash and trims.
Auto speed sensing wipers.
Recommended reviews
1998 - Musso Grand Luxe 2.9 turbo diesel You always get what you pay for | |
Comfortable, but unreliable and not built for the rigors of driving in Kenya |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.2L Mercedes-Benz petrol Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 110000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 140000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Nissan EXA |
| Date of Entry | 29th January, 2009 |