New stretched Chinese ute can tow 3000kg

The three tonne tow-rated LDV T60 dual-cab 4x4 ute will be available from next month with the longest factory tray this side of a RAM 1500, thanks to a 315mm wheelbase stretch.

Built on the same Chinese production line as other T60 utes, the LDV T60 Luxe Mega Tub comes ready to load with a 275mm-longer OEM tray with a total length of 1800mm – longer than both the LWB SsangYong Musso XLV and Volkswagen Amarok XL.

LDV says the factory designed and fitted Mega Tub will swallow typical six-foot tradie ladders and dirtbikes without dropping the tray (although full-size bikes will need to be stowed diagonally). It will come standard with a liner, and hard lids and roller tops will also be available.

While the upcoming Amarok XL’s wheelbase is extended by 310mm (and the Amarok XXL offers an even bigger 650mm stretch, bringing its total length to more than 5.9 metres), the factory-backed dual-cab is converted locally and will cost owners about an extra $15,000.

Making the LDV T60 Luxe Mega Tub even more notable is its price tag of just $34,990 drive-away for the six-speed manual and $36,990 drive-away for the six-speed auto – only $1500 more than the LDV T60 Luxe on which it is based.

The only catch is those prices are only available to ABN holders and of course the turning circle increases.

However, there is no change to the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel’s official fuel consumption rating or towing capacity, which remains at 3000kg.

Like all LDV T60 utes, the LWB model comes with a five-year/130,000km warranty and five-star ANCAP safety rating (2017), while the Luxe variant adds six airbags, blind-spot monitoring, leather trim, keyless entry/start and a rear diff lock.

How much does the 2019 LDV T60 Dual Cab cost?
Pro manual – $28,990
Pro auto – $30,990
Luxe manual – $33,490
Luxe auto – $35,490
Luxe Mega Tub manual – $34,990
Luxe Mega Tub auto – $36,990
Trailrider manual – $36,990
Trailrider auto – $38,990
* Drive-away prices for ABN holders