HSV-tuned LDV T60 Trailrider released

Chinese auto-maker LDV has turned to the same team of Australian engineers that developed homegrown HSV models for 30 years to develop a new suspension tune for the limited-edition LDV T60 Trailrider ute.

Just 650 examples of the new special-edition LDV T60 dual-cab 4x4 pick-up will be available, priced at $38,937 drive-away in manual form (automatic: $41,042 drive-away).

That represents a $5000 price premium over the top-shelf LDV T60 Luxe on which it is based and makes the Trailrider the new flagship of the T60 ute line-up.

Apart from locally-tuned suspension developed by the Walkinshaw Automotive Group, the Trailrider also gains 19-inch alloy wheels and Continental tyres, a lockable roller tonneau cover, black nudge bar, black sports bar, black side steps, black grille and Trailrider decals.

After extensive local testing and tuning out of Walkinshaw’s Melbourne base and on surrounding Victorian backroads, the calibration was taken to LDV’s Chinese production line and adapted firstly to the limited-edition Trailrider.

In terms of suspension tune, LDV officials settled on a new shock absorber rating that didn’t require changes to steering, suspension geometry or front and rear springs.

Inside, there’s a 10-inch touch-screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, keyless start, air-conditioning and adaptive LED headlights.

On the safety front, the T60 goes without autonomous emergency braking but scores full airbag coverage, blind-spot monitoring, tyre pressure warning and a 360 degree camera.

Power is sourced from a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine offering 110kW/360Nm outputs – matched to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

The Trailrider boasts four-wheel drive with low-range, a rear differential and three-tonne towing capacity.

As with the rest of the LDV T60 range, it is covered by a five-year/130,000km warranty with 24-hour roadside assistance.

“With only 650 vehicles being built, this is a genuine limited-addition and the new suspension calibration was developed for the T60 Trailrider and the Australian market,” says Dinesh Chinnappa, general manager of LDV Automotive Australia.

“It is the result of the Walkinshaw Automotive Group working closely with LDV in China to produce a new and unique suspension calibration that is ideally suited to Australian road conditions and driver requirements.”