The LDV T60 Max is the overseas export version of the SAIC MAXUS T60 pick-up truck, sold primarily in markets such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Chile, and the Middle East. First introduced in November 2021 (MY22) as a mid-cycle facelift of the original T60, the model has undergone multiple iterations, corresponding to the SAIC MAXUS T60 or T70 series in China. For the 2025 model year, the lineup has been streamlined from eight variants down to three: Pro, Plus, and Plus Mega Tub, with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission fitted as standard across the range. As of May 2026, the 2025 LDV T60 Max starts from AUD 41,042 (approx. RM195,000, drive-away) in Australia. Dimensions vary by wheelbase: the standard version measures 5,365 mm in length, while the long-wheelbase Mega Tub variant extends to 5,710 mm. Width ranges from 1,815 mm to 1,900 mm, height stands at 1,815–1,960 mm, and wheelbases span from 3,155 mm (standard) to 3,490 mm (long-wheelbase), configured in a 5-seater double-cab layout. Serving as LDV’s core pick-up in overseas markets, the T60 Max leverages its strong value-for-money proposition and comprehensive safety package to rival mainstream contenders like the GWM Cannon, Ford Ranger, and Toyota HiLux.
The exterior styling of the LDV T60 Max blends modern sophistication with rugged aesthetics. Up front, it features a newly designed, imposing chrome radiator grille and a sculpted front bumper flanked by split LED headlamps, giving it a sharper, more aggressive road presence. The 2025 T60 Max further enhances its front-end styling with black chrome accents, black roof rails (Pro only), and black side steps for a bolder off-road stance. In profile, the boxy silhouette is complemented by flared wheel arches and standard 17-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels, while the long-wheelbase Mega Tub variant features an extended cargo bed that emphasises utilitarian capability. Out back, the revised rear fascia sports high-tech LED tail lamps, a heavy-duty soft-touch spray-in tub liner, and a sporty black rear bumper.
Inside, the 2025 T60 Max drops the manual transmission across the range and receives significant cabin upgrades. The entry-level Pro variant gets a 10.25-inch floating infotainment touchscreen, fabric/leatherette combination upholstery, and a 6-speaker audio setup. The higher-spec Plus and Mega Tub trims step up to dual 12.3-inch digital displays (digital instrument cluster and touchscreen), bolstered by generous soft-touch materials, full leatherette seats, 6-way power-adjustable front seats for both driver and passenger, aluminium-effect trim, and a sleek electronic shift-by-wire gear lever reminiscent of the latest Audi A8, markedly elevating perceived cabin quality. However, reviews note that hard glossy plastics still feature prominently and the steering column remains tilt-only, leaving room for improvement in overall fit and finish.
Under the bonnet, the 2025 LDV T60 Max is powered by SAIC’s in-house 2.0-litre four-cylinder bi-turbo diesel engine, fitted with one variable-geometry and one fixed-geometry turbocharger. Configured in a longitudinal DOHC layout with a 15.9:1 compression ratio, the oil-burner churns out 160 kW (around 218 PS / 215 hp) and a peak torque of 500 Nm, delivering class-topping on-paper figures among four-cylinder 4x4 pick-ups in Australia. Power is sent via a standard ZF 8-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, with the previous 6-speed manual dropped entirely. It features a BorgWarner electronically controlled part-time 4WD system as standard. Fuel tank capacity stands at 73 litres, with an official combined fuel economy rated between 8.9 and 9.3 L/100 km. Notably, braked towing capacity across the 2025 range has been upgraded from 3,000 kg to 3,500 kg, alongside a payload rating of 830–935 kg.
On the move, the engine’s lightweight construction delivers strong mid-to-high-end acceleration, clocking a 0–100 km/h sprint in roughly 10 seconds. Due to the sequential twin-turbo configuration, off-the-line response suffers from noticeable turbo lag, resulting in a somewhat sluggish initial step-off; however, once revs push past 1,500 rpm, the engine pulls with muscular, linear torque, proving well-suited for highway overtaking and laden hill climbing. The ZF 8-speed auto provides smooth shifts when cruising, though downshift kick-downs can feel slightly hesitant. Drivers can toggle between Eco and Power drive modes, whilst the 4WD system offers 2H, 4H, and 4L modes alongside a standard rear differential lock. Additional driving aids such as Hill Descent Control and Trailer Sway Control further enhance towing and laden stability.
Built on a rugged ladder-frame chassis with a body-on-frame setup, the LDV T60 Max delivers robust torsional rigidity and durability for severe off-roading and heavy-duty hauling. Suspension hardware comprises front double wishbones with coil springs for improved on-road ride comfort, paired with a heavy-duty rear solid axle with leaf springs (configured with a five-link setup on specific variants) to sustain substantial payloads.
Rolling stock consists of 265/60 R18 tyres across the range, offering 215–220 mm of ground clearance, a 27° approach angle, a 24.2° departure angle, and a 600 mm wading depth. In terms of ride dynamics, the unladen rear suspension is predictably firm over rough tarmac, though it settles noticeably and absorbs road imperfections far better under a full load. An Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system is standard on the 2025 model, providing a light, effortless feel during low-speed parking manoeuvres that weights up progressively at motorway speeds. The turning circle spans 6.65 to 6.9 metres, with the extended Mega Tub requiring extra room to manoeuvre in tight spaces.
Standard kit across the 2025 LDV T60 Max includes keyless entry with push-button start. The Pro trim comes with a 10.25-inch floating touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired/wireless), Bluetooth connectivity, DAB+ digital radio, and a reverse camera. Stepping up to the Plus and Mega Tub variants brings dual 12.3-inch displays, a high-resolution 360-degree surround-view camera, 6-way electrically adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and a wireless charging pad. Audio is handled by a standard 6-speaker system, with higher trims offering premium surround sound processing. Storage solutions are plentiful across the centre console, door cards, and glovebox, with a sliding divider incorporated into the centre armrest bin.
Cargo-wise, the standard tub inner dimensions measure 1,510 mm wide by 1,485 mm long, expanding to 1,800 mm in length on the Mega Tub, with a 1,100 mm width between the wheel arches for substantially greater cargo volume. The rear bed comes factory-equipped with a heavy-duty spray-on protective liner and dual tie-down points, while the tailgate features a gas-strut damped soft-drop mechanism for easy opening, though lifting it shut still requires some muscle. Cabin passenger room is generous with ample rear legroom, although the middle rear passenger sits somewhat elevated with a more upright backrest, which can compromise comfort on longer journeys.
The LDV T60 Max holds notable safety credentials, having secured a five-star ANCAP crash safety rating in Australia back in September 2017—becoming the first Chinese-badged pick-up to earn top marks. While active safety systems have been progressively updated since 2023, its original ANCAP five-star rating expired at the end of 2024 (valid from September 2017 to late 2024) and has not been re-assessed under ANCAP’s latest, more stringent protocols. In terms of passive protection, the 2025 model features six airbags as standard (dual front, front side, and full-length curtain airbags) along with rear ISOFIX child-seat anchors.
For active safety and driver assistance, the 2025 T60 Max comes equipped with a Level 2 ADAS suite as standard across the range. Key features include Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with vehicle and pedestrian detection, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Driver Fatigue Monitoring, and an HD reversing camera. The Plus and Mega Tub trims add a 360-degree surround-view monitor for enhanced low-speed and off-road visibility. These systems complement standard electronic aids including ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Traction Control (TCS), Hill-Start Assist, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPMS).
The LDV T60 Max has achieved solid sales traction across multiple global markets. In Australia, cumulative deliveries exceeded 25,000 units by 2022 following its 2017 debut, peaking at 6,705 units in 2021. Entering 2026, sales have stabilized, registering 214 units in April alone. The model also sustains consistent export volumes across New Zealand, South Africa, Chile, and the Middle East. Among buyers and motoring journalists, LDV’s 7-year/200,000 km factory warranty and 5-year roadside assistance package stand out as major selling points. Many international reviews highlight that the T60 Max delivers generous equipment, robust 3.5-tonne towing capability, and expansive cabin space—essentially providing brand-new vehicle peace of mind for the price of a "used Toyota HiLux". Nonetheless, the calibration refinement of its ADAS suite and low-speed turbo lag remain noted areas for development. Overall, as a trailblazer for Chinese pick-ups overseas, the LDV T60 Max continues to expand its footprint in the mid-to-high pick-up segment through continuous engineering updates and safety enhancements, cementing a competitive foothold in core markets across Australasia.
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