Another addition to the ever-growing Australian ute market has arrived, the 2018 LDV T60. The T60 will look to compete at the entry point of the ute market and do battle with fellow Chinese brand Great Wall.
At this stage, the line-up is straightforward, there are two models, the T60 Pro and T60 Luxe. Both are well equipped and are available with a choice manual and automatic transmissions.
Power comes from a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine that produces 110kW of power at 3400rpm and 360Nm of torque which is available from 1600-2800rpm.
Interestingly, there’s no rear-wheel drive price leader. Both versions are 4x4 and use a low-range transfer case.
The LDV T60 is rated to tow 3,000kg (braked), which is below what the main players currently offer. 3.0-tonnes also seems a big ask for 110kW.
In terms of fuel efficiency, on paper, the numbers look reasonable. The combined consumption figure for the manual is 8.8L/100km, while the auto comes in at 9.6L/100km.
Drive away pricing will accompany all models, the range starts at $28,990 for ABN holders and $30,516 for private buyers.
The two variants available now are dual-cabs, the range will be expanded to include a cab-chassis dual-cab and single-cab models.
The LDV T60 has a reasonable safety package, six airbags (dual front, front side, full-length curtain), ABS, electronic stability control, rear-view camera and blind-spot monitoring are all standard inclusions.
The list of standard features is extensive for a budget ute, for the Pro trim level equipment highlights include automatic LED headlights, auto wipers, side steps, tub liner, heated door mirrors and 17-inch alloy wheels.
On the inside, it has the features to appeal to the lifestyle ute buyer. There’s a the 10‐inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth, two USB ports, cruise control and a multifunction steering wheel.
Moving to the Luxe model, additional features include keyless entry with push-button start, leather trim, heated electronic front seats, climate control air-conditioning, sports bar, auto folding mirrors, comfort suspension and an electronic rear differential lock.
LDV will back the T60 with a five-year/130,000km warranty.
The LDV T60 is very likely to put Great Wall under significant pressure to update the Steed. With the option of an automatic transmission, the T60 is sure to appeal to a much wider group of buyers. It’s most likely going to be competing with the GXL Triton, which is currently the value pick of the established players.
2018 LDV T60 drive-away pricing:
LDV T60 PRO manual - $28,990 ABN holders, $30,516 private buyers
LDV T60 PRO automatic - $30,990 ABN holders, $32,621 private buyers
LDV T60 LUXE manual - $32,990 ABN holders, $34,726 private buyers
LDV T60 LUXE automatic - $34,990 ABN holders, $36,831 private buyers
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