Snapshot
- Ssangyong J100 spied undisguised ahead of reveal
- Rumours suggest it could reclaim the Musso badge
- Electric SUV to feature off-road inspired styling
The 2023 Ssangyong J100 electric crossover has been spied undisguised in South Korea.
An image of the production mid-size SUV was uploaded to Woopa TV on YouTube, showing its rear-end – which will closely follow initial design sketches released in mid-2021.
It is expected to be the first all-new model released by the Korean brand under a new owner, after it filed for bankruptcy almost two years ago.
The boxy styling is similar to the likes of the Ford Bronco Sport and Haval Dargo (née Big Dog), with upright tail-lights and rugged body cladding – although the Ssangyong is unique in offering a faux spare-wheel holder on the tailgate.
This example is finished in navy green paint with silver accents on the rear bumper, rear spoiler, C-pillar and roof rails.
As with the Ford and Haval (and the Ssangyong Korando), the J100 is expected to be underpinned by a unibody platform – rather than a body-on-frame architecture, like the Rexton and Musso.
Extra details, such as battery capacity and performance figures, are currently unknown.
However, a new report suggests the J100 codename could make way for the Musso nameplate when the electric SUV makes its debut in July.
According to local media, a recent study showed Koreans would like to see the badge make a return.
What we know as the Musso ute is called the Rexton Sports Khan in its domestic market, with the nameplate last used in Korea in 2005.
This means the Musso could be forced to undergo a name change for the Australian market.
The J100 will be the second all-electric model from Ssangyong, following the Korando E-Motion.
It will go on sale in Korea during the first quarter, with a spokesperson for Ssangyong Australia confirming the brand will “carry out assessment activities” with an evaluation vehicle locally.
The new developments are part of a ‘corporate rehabilitation’ for Ssangyong, after a group of investors led by Edison Motors successfully acquired the marque for US$256 million (AU$362m).
Keyword: 2023 Ssangyong J100/Musso electric SUV spied undisguised