South Korea’s oldest car manufacturer is back as part of a major push into the European market, including Luxembourg.
South Korean manufacturer SsangYong officially changed its name to KGM (KG Mobility) in March 2023, following its acquisition by the KG Group conglomerate in 2022. As Korea’s oldest carmaker, the brand now pursues an ambitious strategy: to offer robust, well-equipped, and affordable SUVs while affirming a renewed identity.
Its ambitions are increasingly international, as shown by its sales figures. Since 2024, the brand has sold more cars abroad than in South Korea: 97,000 units worldwide compared to 67,000 at home. KGM now aims to cross the 100,000-unit mark across 83 countries. This represents fast growth, considering the manufacturer sold only 28,000 vehicles outside Korea in 2021. In Luxembourg, Autodis has been appointed exclusive distributor.
A clear positioning: robust SUVs at accessible prices
While KGM retains SsangYong’s DNA – solidly built vehicles popular with outdoor and off-road enthusiasts – the brand now emphasises an affordable yet quality lineup. Much like Dacia managed to do, KGM is offering customers a choice of powertrains. KGM doesn’t push a single technology but instead proposes petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric options.
Its lineup blends best-sellers and new arrivals: Tivoli, Korando, Rexton, Musso, Torres, and Actyon. The first three were developed under SsangYong Motor, while the last three represent the new KGM generation.
Torres and Actyon as flagships
The Torres, starting at €30,490, is the symbol of the brand’s revival. Initially available with a 1.5 turbo petrol engine (163 hp), it is now offered in an electric version developed in partnership with BYD. The Torres EVX delivers a 460 km range thanks to a 73-kWh battery. Measuring 4.70 m long, it provides a 600-liter boot, generous ground clearance, and a design inspired by classic 4x4s.
In its EV version, the Torres claims 462 km WLTP range, 152 kW / 207 hp output, and 0–100 km/h in 8.11 seconds. The petrol version features a 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo, producing 163 hp and 280 Nm.
Then comes the Actyon, a D-segment coupe-style SUV based on the Torres. Positioned more upmarket, it stands out with a dynamic design and a panoramic roof. Initially available with a 1.5 T-GDI petrol engine (163 hp, 2WD or 4WD), a hybrid version is expected in early 2026. Prices start at €40,118.
Musso: robust, now electrified
Finally, the Musso completes the lineup. This rugged and versatile 5.16 m pick-up is powered in its diesel version by a 2.2-liter e-XDi engine with 202 hp and 441 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox. It can tow up to 3 tons and carry over 1 ton of payload.
The big news is its 100% electric version, a first for a Korean manufacturer. Launched in Europe at the end of August, the Musso EV boasts an 80.6 kWh LFP Blade battery, 420 km WLTP range (2WD), 207 hp, and fast charging up to 120 kW DC (10 to 80% in 36 minutes). Starting price: €39,636.
KGM clearly intends to prove itself. The question is whether the Korean manufacturer can carve out a solid position and strengthen its market share in Europe… and in Luxembourg.
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