Maxus PH to launch 2021 D60 crossover, here’s what you can expect 

On the heels of the Maxus G50 multi-purpose vehicle launched barely two months ago, Maxus Philippines announced that it is bringing in another offering for the 2021 model year – a compact SUV called the D60.   

That is one large-looking crossover arriving at our shores

The model traces its roots to the Tarantula Electric SUV Concept, which SAIC Maxus previewed at the 2018 Beijing Auto Show. Although it doesn’t share the Tarantula’s alternative-energy powertrain and futuristic features, the D60 does retain the overall silhouette and design elements. Maxus describes the D60 as being ideal both for young professionals and growing families living in the city.  

It's easily longer than its rivals both from Japan and China

>>> Related: 2021 Maxus D60: Expectations and everything we know so far

In its home market of China, the D60 is offered in a choice of 5- and 7-seater variants. There’s even a six-seater version that features second-row captain’s chairs, complete with armrests. Reports say that Maxus Philippines will go the whole hog and release the seven-seater model here.

This is the company’s best bet if it wants to market the crossover as a family ride. It comes with generous dimensions of 4,720mm in length, 1,860mm in width, and 1,736mm in height.  

The black-and-red interior might be an acquired taste, but at least the seats are draped in durable Alcantara

Those measurements trump the figures found on both the D60’s Japanese and Chinese rivals, translating into a spacious cabin. It’s also quite generous with onboard tech as well.

The instrument cluster is a 12.3-inch LCD digital panel, while the head unit is a massive 14-inch touchscreen display. Expect it to use proprietary smartphone mirroring software in lieu of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, though.

China-spec units even feature wireless charging

The Maxus D60 is customarily offered in a pair of turbocharged gasoline engine choices. There’s a 1.3L mill that makes 166 hp and 230 Nm of torque, hooked up to a 6-speed manual transmission that drives the front wheels.

The more potent powertrain consists of a 1.5L motor that develops 166 hp and 250 Nm of twist, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

>>> Related: 2021 Maxus D60 crossover scores five stars in crash safety

We could be getting the same 1.5L turbo engine that powers the G50 MPV

China-spec units come fully-loaded with voice commands for climate control and windows, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and even Level 2.5 autonomous driving capability.

Maxus Philippines claims that the incoming PH-spec D60 will be priced within the subcompact SUV range with low maintenance costs, so it’s likely that some of these features will be watered down to reduce costs. We’ll have to wait for further announcements to find out the specific features and pricing for our market.

Take a peek at the hottest car models coming your way at Philkotse.com.