Starting at a shade under £16,000, the new SsangYong Musso offers a lot of vehicle for the money.

And there's no doubt that it's a major step forward in comparison to the Korando Sports, the vehicle it replaces.

The Musso benefits from a new drivetrain and an impressive new gearbox.

Anyone seeking a robust, double-cab pickup truck will find the value hard to ignore.

The Musso is powered by a newly-developed 2.2 litre Euro 6 diesel engine that is less noisy and rattly than its predecessor.

The Telegraph & Argus was among invited members of the media who tested the vehicle at its launch in Northamptonshire.

During the short roadtest, it was clear that the Musso had been designed to appeal to those who need a competitively priced work truck that combines the practicality of four-wheel drive with some of the features of a family car.

For a large vehicle, it handles well in the corners, without too much in the way of body roll.

The turbo-diesel engine offers excellent acceleration that provides more than enough poke for most everyday situations.

The power is also available consistently through the rev range. Maximum power is 178PS and torque 400Nm, with maximum torque delivered from a low of 1,400rpm and maintained through a wide range up to 2,800rpm.

As well as power, the vehicle's economy has also improved, with manual models now achieving 40mpg on the combined cycle and the automatic managing 37mpg.

So where does the name come from?

Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK, explained: "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.”

The new Musso is fitted with multi-link rear suspension and progressive rear coil springs - making it the only pick-up at this price to offer such a system.

In terms of ride quality, this makes for a relaxed and comfortable car-like ride, even when the vehicle is carrying over a tonne of weight on its load deck.

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

The EX is distinguished by black 18” 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, 7” touchscreen RDS radio with iPod and Bluetooth. The EX with manual transmission is priced at £17,995 ex VAT, and with a six speed Aisin automatic £18,995 excluding VAT.

The new Musso goes on sale in the UK this month.

In a statement of confidence in its latest vehicle, SsangYong is offering all models of the Musso with a five-year limitless mileage warranty.

All in all, it's an impressive package that's bound to appeal to those with an eye for a decent deal.