LDV locks in mid-size SUV for 2019 production
LDV is set to bolster its local line-up with a new mid-size SUV as well as other electrified light-commercial vehicles by 2020.
When the former arrives, it will likely go toe-to-toe with larger offerings in the mid-size segment, such as the Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail, bringing the LDV brand into mainstream contention.
Distributed locally by Ateco Automotive and owned by Chinese giant SAIC, the current Australian LDV range consists of the mid-size G10 van and people-mover, the V80 large van, the T60 pick-up and the D90 large SUV.
It is expected that the new mid-sizer will be based on the Tarantula concept that was revealed at this year's Beijing motor show, with the production version confirmed to be around 80 per cent similar to the concept vehicle.
The Tarantula shares a similar design language with the D90 large SUV that is currently on sale in Australia, but with sharper and more aggressive touches, as expected from a concept vehicle.
LDV – or Maxus as the carmaker is known in overseas markets – has kept quiet on details for the production-ready SUV, but it is known the vehicle has been developed to accommodate plug-in hybrid, full-electric, and internal combustion powertrains.
The Tarantula concept was shown in an EV-guise, with a claimed driving range of 600 kilometres between charges.
It's likely the Australian market would see petrol and diesel engine options, though the brand's local management has expressed interest in electrified models, so a hybrid or full-electric version of the mid-sizer may be on the cards.
Either way, the platform the Tarantula sits will also underpin a new multi-purpose vehicle from LDV called the G50.
It has been reported the G50 will make use of a monocoque chassis, sharing similar dimensions to the Honda Odyssey MPV.
LDV mothership SAIC has previously said the platform will also be used for a smaller light-commercial van, and possibly even a pick-up.
Ateco Automotive hasn't confirmed exactly what will or will not be made available in Australia, but the small van and mid-size SUV would suit local buyer preferences.
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