What Van? Britain's biggest and best van buyers' guide

Final Report

While the Ssangyong name may be unglamorous and unfashionable, the truck that bears its name has turned out to be a dependable workhorse that is comfortable to drive. Aside from a fuel flap that occasionally refused to close, it has manifested no faults at all.

It boasts a capacious cargo area that has swallowed all sorts of loads – including a large amount of timber – without complaint. The six-speed automatic box has delivered power smoothly, and the various on-board features can only be applauded.

Bitter winter weather caused me to appreciate the heated steering wheel and driver’s seat. The presence of Rear Cross-Traffic Alert prevented two collisions – one with a tractor, the other with a Toyota Prius – and Musso Rhino’s front and rear parking sensors and rear view camera with its remarkably-clear image made what is an undoubtedly bulky vehicle surprisingly easy to park. 

Its 4x4 system proved effective when I had to cross a moderately-rutted field or two, and switching to the low-ratio set of gears enabled me to extricate myself from the sticky grip of deep, clinging mud on at least one occasion.  

The four-wheel-drive and low-ratio set of cogs are easy to engage. All you need to do is twist a knob between the front seats.

Last year’s diesel shortage and consequent fuel rationing at service stations made me especially grateful to a button on the steering wheel, which I could flick to see how much range I had left and plan my trips accordingly.

Fuel economy isn’t Musso Rhino’s strong suit, although it improved to around 30mph during my time with it. 

With the aim of maximising economy, and using a button next to the transmission lever, I selected the Eco setting most of the time, which was fine when I was lightly-laden. When I had a bit of weight on-board, however, and needed to tackle some of the steeper hills in Gloucestershire’s Forest of Dean, I opted for the Power setting instead; and enjoyed the extra punch it delivered without worrying too much about how much more diesel I might be burning.

The unladen ride certainly did not improve, although I was continually surprised by how well such a big, heavy, light commercial handled.

My Rhino was the immediate predecessor to the current one; the only real difference between the two is the different front-end styling. What is clear though is that Ssangyong must now implement a further update, which embraces more-sophisticated on-board safety systems such as Traffic Sign Recognition and Intelligent Speed Limiter; features that are to be found as standard on certain rival 4x4 pick-ups.

My view? While the manufacturer’s name may be a bit of a tongue-twister, anybody in the market for a vehicle of this type should consider visiting their local Ssangyong dealership. I doubt they will regret it.

End-of-term report

Safety – 4/5

While Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and the excellent rear view camera can only be applauded, Musso Rhino needs a more comprehensive safety package to keep it in contention. 

Options list – 5/5

The only item that is listed for the new Musso Rhino is metallic paint. That is because the vehicle’s standard specification is so high. On that basis, I’ll have to give it our top score.  

Driving – 3/5