KGM is preparing a bold comeback with the next-generation Musso, internally codenamed Q300. Facing declining sales and the rising popularity of the Kia Tasman, KGM is hoping that a new generation will revive Musso sales.
A revolutionary redesign
The Q300 was spotted in a KG Group PR video, hinting at a radical departure from the current Musso. At the front, it features a wide horizontal grille, dotted-line daytime running lights, and a skid plate that highlights its rugged, off-road identity. The rear styling draws inspiration from the Musso concept, with black-toned branding elements adding a more assertive presence.
Unusually, the production model is expected to stay very close to the official sketches—suggesting that KGM is committed to delivering bold, unconventional styling to make the Musso stand out. The front draws inspiration from the F150 Raptor, while the side and rear styling is distinctly Korean, with design elements borrowed from the Torres and Musso EV.
Built on a stronger frame
Like the outgoing Q200, the Musso Q300 retains a ladder-frame chassis, but an new frame is expected to improve rigidity and durability. The Musso won’t stray into full-size yank-tank territory, but it will likely be slightly larger than today’s model, as spaciousness and comfort is increasingly sought after in the mid-size segment.
Inside, buyers can expect other significant upgrades. Early details point to a 12.3-inch (or larger) digital cluster paired with a wide central display, designed to give the cabin the feel of a modern American pickup.
Powertrain diversification
Currently, the Musso is only offered with a 2.2-litre diesel engine. That’s about to change. KGM has confirmed plans to add a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine in the first quarter of next year, with hybrid and all-electric versions also under consideration.
This diversification marks a major strategic shift. By contrast, the Kia Tasman has launched in South Korea with just one engine—a 2.5-litre turbo petrol. KGM’s approach should give the Musso broader appeal, helping it win back buyers and attract younger consumers who want more choice.
Kwak Jeong-hyun, president of KGM’s business strategy division, outlined the company’s ambitions:
“In the first quarter of next year, we will respond to various powertrain demands by adding a 2.0-litre petrol turbo engine to the Musso Sport and Musso Khan … We will use our 70-year heritage to build a lineup of practical models that are preferred anywhere in the world.”
KGM has leveraged its ties to BYD and Chery to release the KGM Musso EV, which has been hugely successful domestically. It’s a matter of when, not it, electrification will come to the next generation Musso to beef up its 2.0-litre petrol.
A response to Kia Tasman
The timing is no coincidence. Kia’s Tasman has quickly carved out a new “lifestyle pickup” segment in South Korea, gaining traction among younger buyers. Unfortunately, while the pie has grown, KGM’s slice has also shrunk. In May, only 746 units were sold—a 23.4% drop compared with the same month in 2023. Year-to-date sales (January–May) totalled 3,692 units, down 30.2%.
For KGM, the Q300 isn’t just a new model—it’s the brand’s future. By doubling down on ruggedness and off-road DNA while also offering modern tech and alternative powertrains, the Musso Sport is positioned to directly counter the Tasman’s momentum.
When will it launch?
The next-generation Musso is expected to debut in arrive early in 2026, as spy shots of the test vehicles grow common. This makes 2026 a pivotal year for KGM, coming on the heels of the Torres and Musso EV’s success and at a time when the brand needs to rebuild market share at home while capitalising on disruption abroad caused by budget Chinese competitors.
