Cheap Chinese ute lives on! 2026 LDV T60 upgrade appears overseas with new-generation diesel engine and radical re-style for GWM Cannon, JAC T9, and KGM Musso rival

LDV’s Chinese domestic division, known as Maxus, has revealed a deeply upgraded version of its budget-oriented T60 ute.

The new version of the T60 appears to be a deep facelift, maintaining the same chassis and core components, but introducing a completely re-styled front and rear, with a tougher and more contemporary overall vibe.

Interestingly, the old 2.0-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine, which was notable for being one of the most powerful in its class with 160kW/500Nm, has been replaced by the brand’s new 2.5-litre single-turbo diesel which is found in the new larger Terron 9 dual-cab.

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This engine produces 163kW/520Nm and, at least in the case of the Terron 9, is mated to an eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission with a four-wheel-drive system and low-range transfer case.

It is offered with two cargo box sizes, either 1485mm or 1800mm long.

Interestingly, the old-style T60 also continues in China as a budget-oriented workhorse option, featuring a 2.0-litre single-turbo diesel engine producing 100kW/350Nm, with upgrades to this model for 2026 including a re-ratioed rear axle. It features a six-speed manual also mated to a 4x4 system with an auto-locking rear differential.

While the T60 Max continues to be offered in Australia, its sales dropped significantly in 2025, with the once-popular budget option finishing 31.8 per cent down for the year with 4301 units sold.

2026 Maxus Interstellar L

While it received several important upgrades in 2024, it is facing tough competition from the likes of the GWM Cannon, JAC’s new T9, and defending segment stalwart, the KGM Musso.

LDV’s local importer, Ateco, intends to continue selling the T60 for now alongside the new Terron 9, but it's unclear if it will introduce further updates like this one. The importer has been approached for comment.

Australia’s ute segment is being shaken up by aggressive new offerings from China. This doesn’t just include the aforementioned budget players, but also the overdue introduction of electrification technology to the space.

BYD’s Shark 6 plug-in hybrid has made a significant impact on the stale segment, luring buyers looking for something with lower fuel consumption.

2026 Maxus Interstellar L

It managed an incredible 18,073 sales in 2025, more than the Mitsubishi Triton, Nissan Navara, or Mazda BT-50 in a massive warning sign for traditional players.

Now more brands are turning their focus to their segment to defend their position. GWM has introduced its plug-in hybrid Cannon Alpha, while Nissan is looking into the possibility of offering its China-built Frontier Pro plug-in hybrid as a potential low-emissions option to sell alongside its recently-launched Triton-based new-generation Navara.

Meanwhile, both Toyota and Isuzu are pitching fully electric versions of their current strong-selling dual cabs in the HiLux and D-Max respectively.