New LDV T60 bakkie launched in South Africa – Pricing and specifications

Chinese carmaker LDV has officially launched in South Africa with its first product, the T60 double cab.

The new vehicle is available in four trim levels with a total of seven derivatives, with prices starting at R480,000.

The T60 is competing in South Africa’s competitive bakkie scene against titans like the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and Isuzu D-Max, and the company is planning to expand its roster down the line with an adventure SUV, an MPV, and commercial deliver vans.

Engines

The T60 line-up consists of four trim levels – Elite, Pro, Max Pro, and Max Luxe.

The base Elite is the only option to be sold with both 4×4 and 4×2 layouts, as the other three badges are exclusively paired with a four-wheel-drive system.

Customers have a choice of two turbocharged diesel engines, starting with a 2.0-litre single-turbo block that generates a total of 120kW and 375Nm.

This powertrain is found on the Elite and Pro, and can be paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.

Each of the Max units, meanwhile, is treated to a 2.0-litre bi-turbo drivetrain that puts out a sizeable 160kW and 500Nm, which is transmitted to the wheels through a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic shift.

Regarding its practical applications, the T60 can tow a maximum of 3,000kg and carry 900kg in its load bed.

It is 5,365mm long, 1,900mm wide, and 1,809 mm tall, with a wheelbase that measures 3,155mm.

The ground clearance is pegged at 215mm, and the bakkie can wade through 550mm of water.

Every model also features double wishbone suspension at the front and leaf springs for the rear, and disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels.

Features

Starting with the Elite, the spec sheet comprises 16-inch alloy wheels, daytime running lights, a reverse camera, electronic stability control, four airbags, a multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, a 7.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, fabric seats, four speakers, manual air conditioning, and three driving modes – Eco, Normal, and Power.

The mid-range Pro units also come with rear parking sensors, lane-departure warning, driver alert monitoring, a rear diff lock, keyless entry, a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, six speakers, artificial leather upholstery, six airbags, automatic aircon, 18-inch alloy rims, side steps, and roof rails.

Those who go for the Max Pro can then expect hill start and descent control, high-quality cloth seats, rain-sensing wipers, 17-inch alloys, automatic LED headlights, a stainless steel roll bar, and a painted bedliner.

Finally, the top-spec Max Luxe units round out the brochure with a 360-degree camera, a leather steering wheel, electric heated front seats, genuine leather upholstery, 19-inch black alloy rims, and heated folding side mirrors.