2019 LDV Trailrider launches with Walkinshaw tuning

The 2019 LDV T60 dual-cab ute has been given the Walkinshaw treatment, with the Limited Edition Trailrider rolling on a suspension setup developed here in Australia by the gurus at Walkinshaw Automotive Group (Melbourne), who’ve tweaked the workhorse’s ride and handling for Aussie roads and tracks.

The Australian-specific suspension calibration is combined with a package that comprises a black nudge bar, side steps, grille and sports bar, as well as schmick 12-spoke 19-inch black alloys, a lockable roller tonneau cover and bespoke Trailrider decals for the side panels, rear end and the bonnet.

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With all this kit, the asking price is impressive: the LDV T60 Trailrider will set you back $38,937 driveaway for the six-speed manual (the six-speed auto is $41,042 driveaway), and that’s with a five year/130,000km warranty.

“With only 650 vehicles being built this is a genuine limited addition, and the new suspension calibration was developed for the T60 Trailrider and the Australian market,” says Dinesh Chinnappa, General Manager of LDV Automotive Australia. “It is the result of the Walkinshaw Automotive Group working closely with LDV in China to produce a new and unique suspension calibration that is ideally suited to Australian road conditions and driver requirements.”

The Trailrider is based on the top-of-the-range 4x4 T60 LUXE dual-cab, with the option of six-speed auto or manual gearbox (behind the 110kW 2.8-litre turbo-diesel donk). As per the LUXE, the Trailrider also offers an on-demand diff lock and is rated to tow 3000kg.

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There’s plenty of standard kit, too: six airbags, a 360-degree camera, cruise control, climate control air-con, adaptive headlights, leather trim, electric-adjust front seating, a 10-inch touchscreen (with Bluetooth), keyless entry and start, roof rails, auto-fold rear view mirrors, a tub liner and six tie-down points (two high, four low), plus there’s plenty more equipment to make this limited-run T60 highly spec’d for the asking price.

Colour options are red, grey, white or black. On top of all this is the inclusion of the 24/7 roadside assistance for the warranty period, combined with that loan car programme.

The Limited Edition T60 Trailrider goes on sale May 20, 2019.