SSANGYONG has announced the launch of a Musso one-tonne pick-up which is powered by a new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine.

The Musso four-wheel-drive has the towing capability to haul up to three tonnes yet can also double as a family car and and can be used for towing a boat trailer or horse box.

It goes on sale in the UK this month and the newly developed turbo-diesel engine meets the latest Euro 6 emission standards with maximum power of 178bhp.

There are two models in the range. The SE includes a new-look front grille and dashboard, as well as silver finish 18-inch alloy wheels and hard wearing leather-look seat upholstery. It is priced from £15,995 excluding VAT.

The EX version has black 18-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, front LED daytime running lights, leather with heated front seats, power operated driver's seat, automatic air conditioning, automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers, a seven-inch touchscreen incorporating an RDS radio, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity.

The EX with manual transmission is priced at £17,995 ex VAT, and is also available with a six speed Aisin automatic transmission priced from £18,995 excluding VAT.

The new Musso truck is fitted with multi-link rear suspension and progressive rear coil springs - the only pick-up at this price to offer such a system. The loadbed of 2.04 square metres can carry a Euro standard pallet.

Paul Williams, chief executive of SsangYong Motor UK, said: "Our commercial vehicles represent an intrinsic part of the SsangYong range and we decided to reintroduce the Musso name to differentiate this superb utility truck from our passenger cars.

"Musso - which means rhinoceros in Korean - is a tough, robust proposition for any trade, and with a specification, price and warranty no others can compete with."