BETTER KNOWN for its MPV and commercial vehicles, Maxus also has a representative in the pick-up truck segment in Malaysia.
This is the T60 which has been selling since mid-2019, and has now been updated to become a better value-for-money proposition.
Besides a few cosmetic changes, there are feature upgrades as well as an improved powertrain with a performance kit. For a limited time, all bookings of the updated T60 will come with a free performance enhancement kit.
Dubbed the Maxus Performance Kit, this is worth RM3,000. The kit raises power to 155bhp at 3,000 rpm and boosts torque from the standard 360Nm to 425Nm between 1,600–2,300 rpm.
Though more powerful, the fuel consumption is actually better with the improved weight-to-power ratio. Where the standard engine could do 10.4km/litre, the uprated engine can go up to 11.1km/litre, it is claimed. With the 75-litre fuel tank, the T60 should therefore be able to travel further before requiring refuelling – which would be welcome by those who venture deep into the jungle.
The Performance Kit is fitted to the same 2.8-litre, 16-valve, DOHC turbocharged (VGT) engine which meets Euro 4 emission standards. Power goes to all 4 wheels via the 6-speed Punch automatic transmission with a BorgWarner Electronically-Controlled Four-Wheel Drive System that has the usual 2H, 4H and 4L modes that can be selected while on the move.
An Eaton mechanical differential lock is also provided as standard for better stability in difficult conditions. The driver can also select from three drive models – Eco, Power and Normal – to suit the driving conditions.
In addition to the free Performance Kit, the T60 comes with 17-inch wheels. The previously available 19-inch wheels are still available as optional equipment basis for an extra RM3,000.
The T60 has high safety standards, necessary as it will be used on highways. When it was introduced, it raised the bar in its segment as the only 4×4 pick-up that offered front and rear ventilated disc brakes and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. The latter is important to alert the driver of possible leaks before all the air is lost.
Besides that, it also has Bosch Electronic Stability Program, ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution, Traction Control System, and Brake Assist – all active safety systems commonly found in passenger cars.
Due to the higher centre of gravity of a pick-up truck, drivers need to be cautious when cornering fast. To provide safer cornering, the T60 has Roll Movement Intervention (RMI) which gives greater stability as well as improved traction at high speeds or in the event of emergency avoidance (lane-change) manoeuvres.
In the cabin, the atmosphere is passenger car-like with features like power-adjustable front seats, a multifunction steering wheel with integrated switches, 10-inch inch HD infotainment system with touchscreen (Android Auto /Apple CarPlay ready), pushstart button, and automatic air-conditioning.
The new T60 is priced from RM115,888 and, for a limited period, there is a RM1,500 rebate for all bookings received. Confident of the reliability and durability of the vehicle, Maxus offers a warranty of 5 years or maximum of 130,000km. For the first 4 years of ownership (or maximum of 80,000 kms), scheduled maintenance will be free with a complimentary service package that covers required parts, lubricants and labour charges. – PISTON.MY
