Finally a step up in the market for Chinese vehicles this week with the all-new LDV T60 ute gaining a much needed maximum five star ANCAP crash safety rating. Not only did it score the maximum points it outperformed the ute markets two top-sellers, the Toyota Hilux and the Ford Ranger. The LDV T60’s manufacturer SAIC, China’s largest carmaker, has now produced a worthy competitor for one of the largest growth segments in the Australian market. It arrives in two models – the entry T60 Pro workhorse and the better-equipped and more lifestyle skewed T60 Luxe – both feature the same 2.8-litre 110kW turbo-diesel and a choice of six-speed manual of six-speed auto. Prices kick off at $28,990 drive-away if you hold an ABN number, $30,516 if you don’t , making this one of the cheapest dual-cabs now on the market. It’s not perfect but a welcome newcomer that needs a few minor tweaks to make it great. All models well equipped with driver assist technology like blind spot monitoring, hill start assist, a reversing camera, rear park assist and cruise control. The Luxe variant, the one to own, gains more safety and convenience equipment and a welcome softer suspension but has a lower 875kg. payload capability. More work is needed on suspension refinement – on undulating roads around Bathurst this week its double wishbone coil suspension up front worked hard needing more rebound control on its dampers. I’m David Berthon

Download this podcast here