KGM(SSANGYONG)

KGM transforms your SUV into a beast

KGM, formerly SsangYong, has launched a project to specialize its SUVs and meet the demands of customers with more specific needs, whether in terms of cargo capacity or enhanced off-road performance. The Musso and Rexton models, offered by the Korean brand as dedicated off-road vehicles, have received a series of improvements that enhance their performance and handling for those who need that extra something that the standard models don't offer. These modifications were tested over nearly 130,000 kilometers in the North African desert by Manolo Plaza, one of Spain's most experienced off-road professionals, with 18 participations in the Dakar Rally. The results are surprising. The new options significantly improve the standard product.

Musso...The basic kit also includes a hardtop for the rear bed, equipped with tie-down rails. These allow you to secure the spare tire or various accessories (shovels, skid sleds, fuel cans, etc.), making the pickup fully functional for expeditions. It can also be equipped with roof racks, roll bars, snorkels, LED light bars, custom rails and supports, giving the vehicle virtually unlimited capabilities for camping and adventure. Its off-road specifications speak for themselves: a 34° approach angle, a 28° breakover angle, and a minimum ground clearance of 30 cm on the front axle. The new modifications offered by Musso, the first level includes a 4.5-centimeter lift kit and an 8 mm thick duralumin sump guard, which considerably improves the approach angle (from 19.5º to 23º), the departure angle (from 20.5º to 23.6º), and the breakover angle (from 20º to 21º), in addition to increasing the protection of mechanical parts.

The second level is aimed at customers seeking even better performance on rough terrain. In addition to the improvements already mentioned, it includes a suspension kit with four shock absorbers and two springs for the front axle. Two additional springs are also included to reinforce the leaf springs under very high loads. With these improvements, the Musso gains an additional 4 cm at the front and 3 cm at the rear. The incorporation of these new components results in a considerable improvement in approach, departure, and obstacle-breaking angles (27º, 24.6º, and 24º, respectively).

The 'professional' preparation includes, in addition to the body lift kit and sump guard, the possibility of installing a fifth wheel inside the vehicle.

Rexton...It follows the same pattern: suspension lift, new rims, all-terrain tires and Öhlins suspension, achieving similar improvements in performance figures and a much more exclusive aesthetic and functional stance. For the Rexton(image above), the fourth option for the most demanding off-road enthusiasts is the "Adventure" package. In addition to a 4.5 cm height increase and a duralumin underbody protection plate, this kit includes a new suspension with Öhlins shock absorbers adjustable for compression and rebound on all four wheels. A larger and stiffer spring/shock absorber assembly has been installed at the front, while the rear retains the original spring with lift spacers. This results in a 40 mm increase in body height. Braid wheels and slightly larger BF Goodrich KO2 tires, along with plastic fender flares from the KGM catalog, complete the package.

The results are spectacular; the car's behavior changes dramatically. Its ability to absorb bumps and uneven terrain is unimaginable. Potholes seem to disappear, and the speed that can be reached on difficult tracks is much higher, without the risk of getting into trouble.

The Musso, a pickup truck with a large load capacity, also has its own upgrade kits. Level 1 raises the body by 4.5 cm and includes an 8 mm thick underbody protection plate. These two components alone significantly improve the approach, breakover, and departure angles, as well as providing greater protection for the mechanical components on the underside of the body.

Level 2 upgrades include components to enhance off-road performance: four shock absorbers (one per wheel) and two springs for the front axle. Two additional springs are also installed on the rear axle to assist the leaf springs in supporting heavy loads. These modifications result in improved off-road handling and increased ground clearance.

The Musso 'Adventure' version comes with a short bed, as it was designed exclusively for non-professional use. The focus is on the best off-road performance for leisure activities. The wheelbase (110 mm) and front overhang (310 mm) are reduced, and coil springs are installed on the rear suspension. It also includes a lift kit, sump guard, new Öhlins suspension and larger, stiffer springs, resulting in increased ground clearance at the front (40 mm) and rear (30 mm). The Musso 'Adventure' comes equipped with Braid wheels and BF Goodrich KO2 tires, which also contribute to a 2.1 cm increase in ground clearance. A hardtop completes the package.

Catalog of original accessories and configuration options...In addition to the packages already mentioned, KGM Spain offers almost 200 specific parts for the Musso and Rexton. Among them are: roof and bed bars in various styles, different bed covers (plastic, canvas and rigid in various shapes), rear reinforcement spring kits for heavy loads, alloy wheels for sports or off-road use, tow hooks and camping accessories.

Versatility, homologation, and reliability...One of the great advantages of the KGM accessories program is that all elements have been tested and validated in deserts and extreme environments (for example: the Musso Laboratory, with over 60,000 km of testing under the supervision of experts such as Manolo Plaza, Dakar driver and rally reference).

These tests guarantee maximum reliability, fit, and compatibility, which is fundamental for professional users (security forces, rural companies, rescue teams) and also for travelers seeking peace of mind on international routes or in motorhomes.

Furthermore, the prices are competitive and the kits allow for complete customization, from a simple upgrade to an "extreme" rally-worthy preparation, adapting the KGM product to the profile and needs of any user.

Autonews