[Test Drive] Mohave The Master, Solid Exterior with Smooth Driving Feel 'Unexpected Charm'

The interior emphasizes luxury... Excellent stability and quietness during driving

Mohave The Master (Photo by Kia Motors)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] The popularity of large sport utility vehicles (SUVs) is a relatively recent phenomenon. Although they now hold a significant share within the SUV market and assert their presence, the prevailing analysis was that the market potential was limited until Hyundai Motor Company's Palisade was introduced two years ago. Earlier large SUV models failed to receive favorable reviews in terms of ride comfort and fuel efficiency, which also hindered their appeal.

The rapid change in the atmosphere over the past two years is largely due to the growing preference for "big cars." However, it is also noteworthy that the product competitiveness of recently released large SUVs has improved significantly. Kia Motors' Mohave is no exception. After its debut, the second facelift, the "Mohave The Master," was launched in the second half of last year, featuring major changes in exterior and interior design as well as driving performance.

Unlike many recent SUVs that aim for urban use, the Mohave focuses more on off-road capabilities. The Mohave is designed with a frame body structure, where the chassis, which corresponds to the human skeleton, serves as the core to which the engine, transmission, and other components are mounted. Compared to the monocoque structure, where the chassis and frame are integrated?a current trend?the frame's own weight results in lower fuel efficiency but offers advantages in stability and off-road performance.

Mojave The Master (Photo by Kia Motors)

This appeal is clearly demonstrated during actual driving. Even at high speeds, the sensation of speed is not strongly felt, and stability is maintained. Despite having a diesel engine, noise is noticeably well blocked, and vibrations are minimal, earning it a favorable evaluation in terms of quietness.

The Mohave The Master is powered by a V6 3.0 diesel engine, delivering a maximum output of 260 horsepower and a peak torque of 57.1 kgf·m. As a true off-roader, it never lacks power. Acceleration occurs smoothly without any sluggishness even when increasing speed in mid-to-high speed ranges. Overall, it offers a smooth driving experience without feeling excessively heavy, allowing for comfortable handling of its large body. The official fuel efficiency is 9.4 km/l.

The exterior emphasizes robustness by actively utilizing bold straight lines. The radiator grille and Mohave-exclusive emblem, which reflect these characteristics well, harmonize to maximize a solid impression. Thanks to the strong front design, the vehicle feels very large despite being slightly smaller than the Palisade. The dimensions of the Mohave The Master are 4930 mm in length, 1920 mm in width, and 1790 mm in height.

Mojave interior (Photo by Kia Motors)

The interior highlights luxury. This is thanks to the horizontally extended 12.3-inch instrument panel, wooden dashboard, and Nappa leather. The three-dimensional patterned mood lighting also plays its part. The second row legroom may not feel as spacious as expected for a large SUV, but the wide body allows three adults to sit comfortably without difficulty.

While the price is relatively high compared to other domestic SUVs, considering the class, interior, and performance, its appeal is sufficient. Prices start at 47 million KRW for the Platinum trim and 51.6 million KRW for the Masters trim.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.