Earlier this year, Chinese carmaker Maxus released a concept sketch for the next-generation T60 pickup. Apart from the futuristic-looking design and a rumored electric powertrain, no other details were mentioned. While the actual model may still be some time away from becoming a reality, the refreshed T60 for 2022 could serve as a stop-gap.
The Maxus T60 is now the T60 Max, with styling and powertrain changes to boot
Expectations of a different truck from the current model begin with the name change. The T60 now sports the more ominous-sounding T60 Max moniker, stamped in big, bold type across the tailgate that’s surrounded by a revamped pair of rear combination lamps.
Changes are even more evident in front, as the T60 Max carries a more angular fascia shared with the China-spec T90 model. The LED headlamps have been streamlined to accommodate the bigger grille, which ditches the usual vertical slats for three horizontal ones, surrounded by prominent chrome trim.
Flexing the new name across the tailgate
There’s very little in the way of revisions as far as the profile is concerned, save for the omission of the roof rails on top and the inclusion of redesigned two-tone alloy wheels.
The T60 Max’s cabin has also been revamped, still with leather seating for five. A slightly bigger 10.25-inch touchscreen head unit sits at the center of the redesigned dashboard, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Climate controls have also been revised by removing the physical buttons in favor of a more touch-oriented interface.
Highlighting the cabin is a restyled dashboard with a new head unit
Probably the biggest surprise can be found under the hood, with the 2.8-liter variable geometry turbodiesel giving way to a 2.0-liter twin-turbo oil burner. Designed by Maxus’ parent company SAIC, the new mill generates 217 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque.
Even the carmaker’s major suppliers were given prominent roles to play, with Bosch fuel injectors, a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, and BorgWarner Intelligent Real-Time Torque on Demand. A four-wheel drivetrain is still standard, along with a rear-locking differential. On top of six airbags, anti-lock braking, and electronic stability control, the truck also comes with a 360-degree panoramic camera system.
More power comes by way of a 2.0-liter twin-turbo diesel engine
The (more than) refreshed Maxus T60 Max will find its way to Australia and New Zealand showrooms before the year ends. Should Maxus Philippines bring it over to our shores as well?
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