Chinese manufacturer LDV has announced a new turbo-diesel derivative of its G10 van.
Available in showrooms now, the van is priced from $28,990 driv- away in six-speed manual form, or $31,490 drive-away with a six-speed automatic. That equates to a $3000 price premium over the existing petrol model.
The diesel price positions the LDV between $5000-$10,000 below its most immediate diesel rivals. Only Renault’s manual-only Trafic, in entry-level 66kW form, comes close at $32,990 drive-away.
The diesel option marks the beginning of an ambitious new model roll out from the bourgeoning commercial manufacturer, with plans for a full utility range to surface within in the coming months.
The marque’s parent company, the Shanghai Automotive Industrial Corporation, believes the G10’s 106kW/350Nm 1.9-litre diesel is major stepping stone towards a total 10,000 annual commercial sales in Australia.
“Australia needs these kinds of vehicle,” an SAIC spokesman said.
“We want to bring more product to Australia. We have the V80 and G10 in Australia at the moment. In the next year we will bring much more product to Australia. We want to try and bring more value to the Australian market.”
The G10’s 1.9-litre diesel is said to consume just 8.3L/100km. It complements existing 2.4-litre naturally-aspirated petrol and 2.0-litre turbo-petrol offerings.
All LDVs come equipeed with air-conditioning, power steering, cruise control (in automatic versions), power windows, electric mirrors, Bluetooth and a 7.0-inch LCD touch-screen.
The 5.2 cubic-metre load space is capable of carrying two standard pallets, according to LDV, and is accessible via twin sliding door and a rear-lift tailgate. The LDV has a one-tonne plus payload capacity.
All LDV G10s receive stability control, anti-lock brakes, reversing camera, parking sensors, body-roll control and tyre pressure monitoring. Airbag coverage extends to dual front protection, but no side impact protection.
The standard warranty comprises three years/100,000km, with the addition of 24/7 roadside assistance.