SsangYong's next Musso caught in Actyon!

SOUTH Korean brand SsangYong was caught testing its next-generation Musso 4WD wagon in Melbourne last weekend.

Based on the same platform as the mid-sized Kyron 4WD released earlier this year, the new-generation Musso replacement – the name for which is still to be confirmed – will be released in Australia in June.

It will be powered by a 104kW/310Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine (also found in the Kyron), which drives either the rear or all four wheels via a five-speed manual or a three-mode four-speed automatic gearbox.

SsangYong Motors Australia spokesman Brad Leach told GoAuto this week that the vehicle photographed was a pre-production evaluation model.

He also said that there was at least one other version currently in Australia, being filmed for a South Korean TV commercial.

Mr Leach confirmed that discussions for the name were continuing in South Korea.

It is believed the Actyon moniker used in South Korea and elsewhere might replace Musso. Actyon is an amalgam of "action" and "young", reflecting the entry-level role the vehicle will play in the company’s line-up, in which it will be positioned and piced below the Kyron.

As GoAuto reported last week, there is also a four-door utility version on the way to replace the popular Musso version – which accounts for around 50 per cent of all SsangYong sales in Australia.

Known as the Actyon Sports SUT, the ute was unveiled at the Busan International Motor Show in South Korea last week (see separate story).

It is scheduled to appear in Australian showrooms either late this year or in early 2007.

The utility will also utilise the 104kW 2.0-litre turbo-diesel unit. However, a 121kW/342Nm 2.7-litre CDi turbo-diesel, as well as a 162kW/312Nm 3.2-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine, will also be offered from launch.