LDV goes big with new T60 Luxe Mega Tub

LDV Automotive has struck back against SsangYong’s Musso XLV and introduced its own long wheelbase/ long tray ute, the T60 Luxe Mega Tub.

Based on the T60 Luxe, the Mega Tub’s wheelbase has been stretched by 315mm to now measure 3470mm and has had 275mm added to its tray (now 1800mm), making it longer in both respects than its Korean rival as well as the upcoming Volkswagen Amarok XL.

An inner tray liner comes as standard, while roller tops and hard lids will be made available for those looking to keep their cargo secure.

Its 815kg payload remains unchanged, as does its 3000kg braked towing capacity. The Mega Tub also scores the Australia-specific suspension tune found on other T60s.

Aside from its length and a new driveaway price of $34,990 for ABN holders ($1500 more than the regular manual T60 Luxe), equipment and specification remains the same as before, including the $2000 premium for the six-speed automatic transmission over the six-speed manual (now $36,990 driveaway for ABN holders).

Only the RAM 1500 boasts a longer wheelbase and tray, something LDV Automotive general manager Dinesh Chinnappa said was critical in the pick-up market.

“Size matters and by bringing the T60 Luxe Mega Tub to market we’re broadening our offering in the most competitive segment in Australia,” he said.

The same 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine is also carried over unchanged and while bigger in capacity than the 2.2-litre unit in the SsangYong, the LDV’s engine can’t match the Musso XLV’s 133kW and 420Nm, having to make do with 110kW at 3400rpm and 360Nm from 1600-2800rpm.

As of October this year, LDV had sold over seven times more 4x4 T60s than SsangYong sold Mussos (2902 vs 375), accounting for more than 2 per cent of the total market share.

The new Luxe Mega Tub will hit dealerships next month.

LDV T60 Dual Cab driveaway ABN pricing