LDV renews T60 dual-cab ute

LDV has taken the covers off its refreshed T60 dual-cab ute revealing a bold new look and upmarket interior for the competitively priced model, now priced from $33,990 drive-away for ABN holders, or about $3000 more than the outgoing model.

With a 160kW/500Nm bi-turbo diesel engine, LDV says the T60 is now the most powerful four-cylinder ute in its class and is now ready to take the battle to the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, Australia’s first and second best-selling utes.

“The Aussie ute market is mega competitive, and no longer just about being a work vehicle,” said LDV Australia general manager Dinesh Chinnappa.

“Now, they double up as a lifestyle choice, allowing owners to enjoy the great outdoors with their family and friends, and still have room for their camping gear, motorbikes, the ability to tow a trailer, and so on.

“In this environment, power has become the critical battleground, and the T60 MAX mixes it with the best of them,” he said.

LDV has sold 5648 examples of the T60 and T60 MAX 4WD to the end of October, well behind the Ford Ranger (38,291) and Toyota HiLux (34,238).

The T60 MAX is powered by SAIC’s D20-series small block ‘four’ and develops 160kW at 4000rpm and 500Nm from 1500rpm. 

The engine uses Bosch high-pressure common-rail injection technology to return an ADR combined cycle fuel economy figure of 9.2 litres per 100km when paired to a six-speed manual gearbox, or 9.3L/100km when matched to the optional ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission.

LDV says the suspension of both the Pro and Luxe versions of its T60 MAX have been specially calibrated for Australian conditions. It is also equipped with an Intelligent Real-Time Torque on Demand system from BorgWarner to automatically adjust torque between the front and rear axles.

The T60 MAX is further equipped with a two-speed transfer case and “impressive approach and departure angles” to make it “an ideal companion for weekend warriors”, LDV said.

The new T60 MAX is distinguished by a larger grille and narrower headlights, muscular wheel arch flares, and reprofiled alloy wheels while the tailgate is stamped with the model nameplate. Luxe models feature a black front guard and grille, along with chrome wing mirror covers.

All variants now include a spray-in tub liner and four tie-down points on the bed. Payload is rated to 953kg on the workhorse Pro variant and 750kg for the family-focussed Luxe. Braked towing is rated at 3000kg for either variant.

Inside, the T60 boasts a refreshed cabin with new 10.25-inch central infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. 

More of the vehicle’s features are now accessed via the touchscreen’s menus to keep the cabin clutter free, LDV said. The climate controls sit flush beneath the touchscreen, giving the centre stack a minimalist look. 

Leather, six-way adjustable powered seats are offered on Luxe variants.

“Over the past decade, the four-wheel drive ute segment has grown substantially. It now represents around 18 per cent of total vehicle sales, so it’s critical to have a truly competitive offering in this segment,” said Mr Chinnappa.

“The new T60 MAX builds on an already strong platform to deliver high-end power and performance, peace-of-mind ownership, and represents outstanding value for money. It’s the perfect offering for hard-working Australians.”

All T60 MAX variants are equipped with six airbags, electronic brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution, hill-descent control, LED DRLs, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera, and fatigue reminder. The up-spec Luxe adds a 360-degree camera, lane departure warning and an on-demand rear differential lock.

The T60 is backed by a five-year/130,000km warranty and roadside assistance program. 

National distributors Ateco Automotive said the new model will be available from it 88 dealerships across Australia by next month.

2022 LDV T60 MAX pricing*

*All prices listed are drive-away for ABN holders.