Arriving with a promise of power and comfort, the LDV T60 Max Luxe aims to blend utility and luxury in the bakkie segment. Car Magazine digital editor Alex Shahini explores the updated offering.
The resurrection of Leyland DAF Vans (LDV) by SAIC Motor in 2009 marked a significant shift. Chinese firms, leveraging their technology and cost advantages, acquired several Western brands during the economic downturn, including MG, Lotus, and Volvo. LDV, now under SAIC’s Maxus subsidiary, started production in 2011. Fast forward to today, the T60 bakkie serves as LDV’s flagship in South Africa, with plans to introduce the D90 SUV soon.
Related: LDV T60 bakkie in SA: pricing and spec
Launched in 2016, the T60 was SAIC’s first bakkie and the first Chinese-built model with six airbags. Despite its eight-year-old platform, the T60 has been updated to stay relevant. It’s a noteworthy entrant in South Africa as LDV’s initial offering, signalling the brand’s intent to expand.
SAIC Motor, a giant in the automotive world, also showcases its electric vehicle expertise with the eT60 2WD, though it’s unlikely to reach South Africa soon. The T60 Max Luxe, priced just under R800,000, competes with top-tier bakkies like the Hilux Raider, Triton Xtreme, D-Max LS, Ranger XLT, Amarok Life, and Navara Pro-2X.
The T60 Max Luxe sports a refreshed front fascia and a modernized interior. A 10.25-inch central infotainment screen, compatible with phone replication via USB ports, and a six-speaker system enhance the cabin experience. Analogue dials flank a digital driver’s display that includes cruise control and tire-pressure monitoring.
The T60’s safety credentials are strong, with a five-star ANCAP rating and cameras on each corner for better manoeuvrability. The resolution shows its age but remains functional.
Driving the T60 reveals a robust diesel engine delivering 160 kW and 500 N.m. However, there is a noticeable low-end lag despite the biturbo setup. The 8-speed ZF transmission requires slight tuning to handle Highveld altitudes confidently. With a payload capacity of 925 kg and towing capabilities up to 3,000 kg, it handles added weight stably. Over 600 km of mixed driving, it achieved a fuel consumption of 8.2 L/100 km.
Chinese automotive quality perceptions have improved, yet the bakkie market is driven by loyalty and emotion. The P-Series’ entry post-Covid didn’t disrupt the established brands significantly despite good sales. For LDV, the challenge lies in winning over buyers loyal to brands like Toyota, Ford, and Isuzu. Competitive warranties and service plans may appeal to those willing to explore new options, but widespread adoption will depend on proving reliability and durability through experience.
The LDV T60 Max Luxe presents a strong case in the competitive bakkie segment, combining power, comfort, and modern features. While it may not immediately sway loyal customers from established brands, it offers a compelling alternative for those open to new possibilities in the bakkie market.
LDV T60 Max Luxe at a glance:
- Price: R790 000
- Engine: 2.0-litre, biturbo diesel, four-cylinder
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Power: 160 kW
- Torque: 500 N.m
- Fuel consumption: 9.3 L/100 km
- Emissions: n/a
LDV T60 Max Luxe pricing:
- T60 Elite 2WD manual – R480 000
- T60 Elite 2WD 6AT – R520 000
- T60 Elite 4WD M/T – R520 000
- T60 Elite 4WD 6AT – R560 000
- T60 Pro 4WD 6MT – R610,000
- T60 Pro 4WD 6AT – R640 000
- T60 MAX Pro 4WD 6MT – R670 000
- T60 MAX Pro DC 4WD 8AT – R710 000
- T60 MAX LUXE 4WD 6MT – R750 000
- T60 MAX LUXE 4WD 8AT – R790 000
All models feature a factory-backed 5-year/200 00 km warranty and 100 000 km service plan over the same period of time.