increase font size
The new LDV T60 Ute was launched last month.
While the LDV brand has been available in New Zealand for a number of years, it’s typically been recognised as a second tier offering. That has started to change after distribution passed to the Inchcape Group in 2023, who are on a trajectory to improve that public perspective, and in due course, push sales upwards.
The pre-Christmas launch of the new LDV T60 ute offers a glimpse of where things are heading, with the likes of a new front bumper and grille, fully optioned side-view mirrors with heating and auto-folding, LED DRL and auto-dipping headlights and new 18-inch wheels.
To understand the moves to get better customer recognition, it’s necessary to take a step back and take note of the 7-year/200,000km warrant - up from the current 5-year/130,000km offering - alongside 7-year complementary WOF inspections, including all vehicles registered in MY-2024.
Power, as in the current models, is delivered via the same 2-litre, twin-turbo diesel to offer 160kW and 500Nm peak torque. An 8-speed transmission, sourced from ZF, is complemented by an on-demand 4WD system, combining to offer a 3000kg towing capacity.
Priced at a competitive $55,990, the new T60 Max Plus, the new ute, compares with current $50,000 Lux and $47,000 Elite versions, which will take the new look in the not-so-distant future.
Elsewhere, further upgrades include keyless entry and push button start, a lockable tailgate, auto wipers, auto headlights with automatic high-beam selection, front and rear parking sensors, and a surround view camera system.
In the cabin, leather accentuated upholstery features contrast stitching, with comfortable seats offering heating and power adjustment, alongside a heated steering wheel that is always welcomed.
Shift selection is via a column mounted control, while the infotainment package takes the form of twin 12.5-inch-wide screens, housed within a single full-width frame. Moving to functionality, the rear tub includes a spray-on liner for durability, with four tie-down points.
Tackling difficult terrain should be a breeze, with standard equipment including Hill Descent and Hill Start assist functions, stability and traction control, with an on-demand, rear locking differential. The new LDV T60 Max Plus is available for purchase from mid-January 2025.
Already causing a stir in the burgeoning ute sector, JAC (“Jack”) has raised its profile by being named as the latest major sponsor of June’s National Fieldays, where it will officially introduce its top-of-the-line T9 4WD double cab ute to the market, joining its fleet of 100% EV and Cummins diesel trucks.
New Holland is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the introduction its Twin Rotor threshing and separation technology, which has evolved from a single model in 1975 to a range today, led by the new CR10 and CR11.
The company behind the iconic TPW Woolpress, which fundamentally changed the way wool is baled in Australia and New Zealand, is turning 50.
Since Donald Trump’s import tariff announcement, the world has been on a wild economic ride.
Continental was founded in 1871, offering solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation.
New Zealand’s dairy sector cannot expect India to be a market for all its dairy products.
Meat processor ANZCO Foods’ net profit has plunged on the back of lower market returns which squeezed margins and impacted business performance.
OPINION: Most people will be aware of the Government's plans to boost coal, oil and gas production to meet energy requirements.
AgriZeroNZ has entered a new partnership with Britain's national innovation agency, Innovate UK.
Twenty rural community hubs across New Zealand will receive $5,000 to upgrade their facilities having been selected as the winners of Rabobank's Community Hub Competition.
As the dairy industry prepares to celebrate its top achievers at an awards night this Saturday, attendees are being warned to be aware of protests planned outside the venue – Baypark Arena, Mount Mauganaui.
