THE LDV T60 MAX PLUS ute has found favour with value-chasing buyers, and now it has undergone significant lifecycle revisions including new visual cues aimed at enhancing its tough appearance, the addition of multi-link rear suspension, new safety and specification features, and a new driver-focused cockpit design.
The LDV T60 Max Plus is a new variant for the T60 range that LDV hopes will further cement its position as the ute of choice for hard-working Australians.
“The Aussie ute market is a key battleground for OEMs as the vehicles have to be truly multi-purpose, bridging the gap between work necessity and lifestyle choice,” says Dinesh Chinnappa, LDV General Manager.
“We’ve listened to feedback from the market and worked closely with our colleagues in China to ensure the T60 range remains competitive. T60 Max Plus is a new model that has key technical, specification and safety updates to complement its position as one of the most powerful four-cylinder utes you can buy.”
What’s new
The T60 Max Plus is the halo model for the T60 range and new addition highlights include 12.3-inch central touchscreen, 12.3-inch driver instrument cluster, lockable tailgate, heated and power-folding side mirrors, electric power steering and park brake, and multi-link rear suspension.
In addition, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard on automatic transmission models.
Powertrain and driving
At the heart of the T60 Max Plus remains the 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder bi-turbo diesel engine delivering 160kW at 4000rpm and impressive 500Nm from just 1500rpm.
Its small block design and electronically controlled, high-pressure common rail technology from Bosch make it one of the most powerful diesel engines in its class. The T60 Max Plus has benefited from remapped engine software to ensure a more linear delivery of that power.
The automatic 8-speed ZF gearbox maps and learns driving characteristics always ensuring the T60 Max Plus is in the correct gear for the circumstances to deliver that 160kW and 500Nm. Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 9.3L/100km for the manual and 8.9L/100km for the automatic.
For the first time, the T60 Max Plus also comes with multi-link rear suspension, delivering more control and a better ride over a range of surfaces, as well as an increase in payload capability. The Intelligent Real-Time Torque on Demand system – an on-demand rear differential lock – from BorgWarner takes the guesswork out of road conditions by delivering maximum traction automatically. The driver can also manually select high-speed 2WD, high-speed 4WD and low-speed 4WD for tough off-road conditions.
Along with useful approach and departure angles, minimal overhangs and increased ground clearance thanks to the new multi-link rear suspension, the T60 Max Plus is an ideal companion for weekend warriors seeking to get off the beaten track.
Safety and technology
The first T60 secured a coveted ANCAP 5-star safety rating, and this new T60 Max Plus continues to showcase a strong suite of passive and active safety measures, including the first T60 to have Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) which works from 8km/h. In unison, standard Adaptive Cruise Control operates from eight to 130km/h and Lane Keep Assist from 60km/h and help give a reassuring second set of eyes on the road ahead.
Also in the mix are LED daytime running lights, front and rear parking sensors and 360-degree panoramic camera, and Fatigue Reminder.
Six airbags (driver and front passenger, side airbags, and full-length curtain bags), Electronic Brake Assist (EBA), Hill Descent Control (HDC), and a new electronic power steering system which gives more feel and response complete the picture.
Interior
Inside, the T60 Max Plus features a distinctive new dashboard design that curves around the driver and ensures everything is ergonomically within reach.
The integration of a new 12.3-inch infotainment and driver display into a single slimline screen represents a significant advancement on the existing T60 range, while a new operating system supports a revised graphics suite, which offers a host of essential features including visual representation of the ADAS systems in action such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping aid. These new developments improve the overall driving experience and enhance the safety of the vehicle.
The T60 Max Plus has a repositioned column-mounted gearshift that creates additional storage space in the central tunnel. This extra space allows for a raised wireless charging pad which enables wireless connectivity through both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (and also available wired) to sit alongside the 2WD and 4WD high/low selector. The T60 Max Plus also has three USB ports, which allow multiple devices to be charged simultaneously.
Finally, additional sound-proofing material between the engine and the bulkhead has improved cabin ambience, too.
Exterior
The new T60 Max Plus sports a tough new look with black gloss grille, door handles, door mirror covers (now auto folding with heating), side trim and rear bumper – all of which deliver greater on-road presence than before.
The tailgate is now lockable and the spray-in tub liner keeps the bed protected from wear and tear, while four tie-down points help to secure the trickiest of loads. Payload for the manual is 840kg and 830kg for the automatic, while the Mega Tub Plus is 800kg. All have a max braked towing capacity of 3000kg.
Pricing and ownership
Driveaway ABN holder pricing begins with $45,990 for the manual, $47,990 for the automatic, and $49,490 for the Megatub automatic.
All LDV T60s come with a seven-year/200,000km (whichever occurs first) warranty and five-year/unlimited kilometre Roadside Assist.
“The T60 has been an integral part of our growth story over the years and this new T60 Max Plus addition is a fitting halo model for the range,” says Dinesh Chinnappa, LDV General Manager. “The inclusion of AEB, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist are critical items that allow us to be competitive in this segment, while continuing to be outstanding value for money for hardworking Australians.”