2023 LDV T60 Max arrives
LDV has released the 2023 version of their T60 Max, with the new version to “double down” on growing sales that the Chinese-built dual cab ute enjoyed here in the second half of 2022.
“The LDV T60 Max is the backbone of our brand and the new MY23 T60 Max will continue that tradition,” says Dinesh Chinnappa, LDV General Manager.
“We know power is an important factor for ute buyers, particularly tradies who want to go off-roading at weekends, tow the jet ski, or put their bikes in the tray. We also know these tradies are looking for value and the new T60 delivers both in spades.”
Familiar Drivetrains
Underpinning the MY23 T60 Max is the same 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel four-cylinder engine, producing 160kW and 500Nm – the most powerful four-cylinder ute available in Australia.
Transmission options remain unchanged, with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic, but a new addition for 2023 is paddle shift controls for the T60 Max with the auto transmission.
Fuel capacity is unchanged at 73 litres and fuel economy is listed at 9.2lt/100km for the manual and 9.3lt/100km for the auto – also unchanged from the outgoing T60 Max.
Selectable four-wheel drive with low range remains for 2023, as does LDV’s Intelligent Real-Time Torque on Demand system that automatically maximises traction to match the road conditions.
The T60 Max continues to be offered in Pro and Luxe variants, with the suspension tuning differing on both – firm for the former and soft for the latter.
2023 Appearance
The primary changes for the 2023 T60 Max are cosmetic, starting with body-coloured mirror caps and new 19-inch alloy wheels in black for the T60 Max Luxe manual. On the T60 Max Pro, wheels remain at 17 inches.
Reflecting the Luxe’s road bias, these new-look 19-inch wheels are shod with Continental tyres rated at 240km/h, but conflictingly, this variant also includes an on-demand rear diff lock that’s better suited to heavy-duty off-road work.
Other cosmetic additions and upgrades on the Luxe for 2023 include black wheelarch flares, black side steps, black roof rails and a distinctive sailplane-style sports bar that’s also in black.
On the T60 Max Pro, there’s a chrome sports bar and roof rails, along with new, wider sidesteps. Colour options remain at five, covering white, black, grey, blue and orange.
Both Pro and Luxe variants now include a soft-release tailgate, with a spray-in tub liner to protect the load area.
Four tie-down points remain in the tub, along with unchanged payload capacity of 750kg for the Luxe and 935kg/925kg (manual/auto) for the Pro. Towing capacity for both T60 Max variants is also unchanged at 3,000kg.
Inside, the steering wheel has been updated (with the addition of the aforementioned paddle shifters for the auto) and both variants of the T60 Max gain a new centre console screen.
The screen size is unchanged at 10.25 inches, but the design is different, with HVAC controls now sitting flush underneath to continue the sleek look. Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth smart phone connectivity is standard.
Safety & Tech
As the previous version of the T60 Max already had a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, the new version is expected to continue this, with carryover safety technologies like ABS, EBD, ESP, Electronic Brake Assist, Hill Descent Control, Traction Control, Vehicle Dynamics Control, Fatigue Reminder and six airbags.
On top of this, the T60 Max Luxe adds a 360-degree camera and Lane Departure Warning.
Convenience and comfort features on both variants include cruise control and climate control, rear parking sensors and rear fog lights. The Luxe adds keyless entry, auto mirrors and six-way, electronically adjustable leather trimmed seats. The Pro carries over for 2023 with cloth seat trim.
Warranty Upgrade
Bigger news than the cosmetic upgrades and minor spec changes on the T60 Max for 2023 is the increased warranty. Previously 5 years or 133,000km, the LDV factory warranty is now 7 years or 200,000km, applicable to both MY23 T60 Max grades.
With the increased warranty and new features comes a price rise of around 10 per cent compared to MY22 pricing. The T60 Max range now starts at $41,042 for the entry-level Max Pro manual, rising to $49,463 for the “mega tub” that’s on a 315mm longer wheelbase than the standard models and includes a 275mm longer tub.
According to LDV, the T60 Max Pro offers $2,600 in extra value, with $5,000 in value for the T60 Max Luxe. Special driveaway deals are in place for ABN holders, starting at $38,990.
The 2023 T60 Max range started arriving in LDV dealers in November. See your dealer for more details.
2023 LDV T60 Max pricing*
Max Pro manual $41,042
Max Pro automatic $43,148
Max Luxe manual $45,779
Max Luxe automatic $47,884
Mega Tub automatic $49,463
*driveaway pricing.