On a bustling work day in Auckland New Zealand, LDV took centre stage, unveiling two exciting new vehicles ‘tailored to meet the demands of hard-working Kiwis’: the LDV T60 Max Plus and the Deliver 7. With a strong emphasis on blending performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, LDV is out to reinforce its commitment to innovation and loyalty to its customers.
The launch event marked not only the introduction of these new models but also a renewed focus on reflecting Kiwi values, honesty, loyalty, and transparency. Bolstered by an industry-leading seven-year warranty along with seven years of roadside assistance and Warrant of Fitness inspections, LDV is making a clear statement: its vehicles are built to last, and it stands firmly by their quality.
LDV T60 Max Plus: A Powerful Workhorse with a Modern Flair
The T60 Max Plus, LDV’s latest addition to the ute lineup, delivers a commanding mix of power, utility, and style. Designed for those who need a vehicle that works as hard as they do, the T60 Max Plus is out to exceed expectations both on and off the road.
Under the hood lies a 2.0L variable geometry turbocharged diesel engine, producing an impressive 160kW of power (500Nm). Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the T60 Max Plus offers smooth and responsive driving dynamics, whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling rugged terrain. A three-ton towing capacity, (830kg payload) and a 73-litre fuel tank reinforce its robust workhorse capabilities, making it an ideal partner for tradespeople, and adventurers alike.
Inside you’ll find a cabin designed with both comfort and connectivity in mind. The 12.3-inch continuous HD screen takes center stage, offering seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while wireless charging ensures your devices are always powered. Electric, heated, and adjustable seats elevate the driving experience, (however the steering wheel isn’t telescopic) while a 360-degree panoramic camera makes parking and maneuvering a breeze.
Visually, the T60 Max Plus boasts a striking new look, with a black gloss grille, updated black door handles and side mirrors (that are heated and auto folding), and standout 18-inch alloy wheels. Safety remains a top priority, with the previous T60 achieving a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, while key features like autonomous braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and collision warnings work together to ensure peace of mind on the road. Although, MIA are features like auto start/stop, rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot alert.
Our (albeit brief) test of the T60 Max Plus took us from Kumeu to Auckland via a detour around Waimuku. Admittedly, it was sealed roads for the trip so not the most taxing, however, arguably more of what driving utes has become.
In fairness, the ‘new’ T60 Max Plus is more of an additionally engineered facelift, however, the cabin itself is noticeably quiet, far less diesel clatter than the previous T60 I tested and added to that, the HUGE increase in technology and finish makes for a far more upmarket ride. The tech itself is easy to use (so culling some of the mandatory ADAS systems was simple) and the information, for which there is a lot, is clear and easy to read – even with my older eyes.
The steering has an excellent weight to it and the entire ute, regardless of 2WD/4×4 or drive mode you happen to find yourself in, feels substantial on the road, although the suspension is rather firm. Visibility on the whole is good, just the door mirrors could do with opening a bit further for my liking, and I would have liked a telescopic steering option. The powertrain itself feels grunty and the 8-speed box is very slick.
Looks are of course subjective, but the improved face makes the T60 Max Plus more of an eye-catcher, and the gas struts on the tailgate are always a winner in my book, that and the deck-liner as standard.
LDV Deliver 7: Designed for Kiwi Businesses
Built to serve New Zealand’s tradespeople and businesses, the LDV Deliver 7 combines practicality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal in a versatile van that’s out to set a new standard in the commercial vehicle space. Available in both short and long wheelbase versions, the Deliver 7 offers cargo spaces of 6.3 cubic metres and 7.2 cubic metres, respectively, making it the perfect companion for delivery services and trades alike. What’s more, both are capable of taking a euro-size pallet.
The Deliver 7 is powered by a 2.0L turbo diesel engine, delivering reliable performance for long days on the road. Its 270-degree barn doors and optional dual sliding doors make loading and unloading cargo remarkably efficient, while the non-slip rubber flooring (as standard) and LED cargo lighting enhance functionality regardless of how late you work or under what conditions.
Inside, the Deliver 7 provides a car-like driving experience that stands out among vans. The 8-way adjustable driver’s seat, complete with lumbar support and an armrest, ensures comfort during long trips. The centrepiece is a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with multiple USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity rounding out the tech-forward cabin.
Safety hasn’t been overlooked either, with the Deliver 7 inheriting the same advanced safety features that earned its diesel counterpart a gold ANCAP rating. From its stable electric power steering to its ergonomic layout, the Deliver 7 is designed to make every journey smooth, safe, and productive.
As with the T60 Max Plus, testing the Deliver 7 was limited to driving from Auckland to Kumeu/Riverhead, and my back was pleased that we didn’t have to pick up any heavy parcels along the way.
For me, space is the big theme for this new all-rounder van. We had the small wheelbase option, and yet both the cabin and cargo areas offer a feeling of unrestricted space. The cabin area has an excellent free-flow about it, aided by the move of the gearstick to the steering column – like some upmarket Euros. Fit and finish is durable and yet features a kind of stitched leather plastic – yes I know that doesn’t make sense, but it will when you get inside.
There are more than ample cubby holes for ‘stuff’ and a large space between the two seats for a small cabinet, but no specific place for documents, which is why I brought the cabinet thing up. The tech is informative, with menu’s that are easy to navigate around, and it even has Apple/Android connection, although it is wired (as opposed to the T60’s wireless).
Then there’s the cargo area, it’s rather expansive. In fact I’m told it will fit a euro pallet between the wheelarches, how’s that for handy. The rear doors open wide and wider and our model came with a sliding side door, and you can option two.
On the road, the Delivery 7 was a peach. Even empty, its road manners are great and steering is weighted ‘just right’. It’s also rear-wheel drive, offering more cornering predictability and probably more stoicism when laden.
To be honest, I’m looking forward to spending more time with both new models.
A Commitment to Kiwi Values
As stated earlier, beyond the vehicles themselves, LDV emphasised its dedication to New Zealand’s hardworking spirit. “Honesty, loyalty, and transparency are central to Kiwi values, and this launch exemplifies our commitment to these ideals,” said the LDV team during the event. The seven-year warranty (200,000km) package further symbolizes trust, offering customers peace of mind and reinforcing LDV’s confidence in its products.
With both the T60 Max Plus and Deliver 7, LDV has shown its ambition to meet the diverse needs of Kiwi drivers, from urban commuters to rural businesses and beyond.
Prices start from $55,990 for the LDV T60 Max Plus and $53,990 for the Deliver 7.
Photo credit (the good ones) Dillon Photography
