2019 Maxus T60 Review

As the demand for versatility and comfort in Malaysia's pickup truck market rises, models that balance work practicality with family travel experience are gradually becoming the focus of consumer attention. The 2019 Maxus T60, positioned in the mid-range 4x4 pickup truck market, features a 2.8T diesel engine, comprehensive safety configurations, and spacious interior as its core selling points, garnering interest from many users. This review will focus on its static design, dynamic performance, and daily practicality to give readers a comprehensive understanding of whether this vehicle meets the needs of local users.

The exterior design of the 2019 Maxus T60 leans towards a tough and robust style. The front features a large trapezoidal grille accented with chrome trim and sharp LED headlights on both sides, giving it a high degree of recognition. The side profile features straight lines, and the vehicle's dimensions of 5365mm in length and 2145mm in width ensure adequate cargo space and passenger accommodation. The 255/55 R17 tires offer both off-road performance and stability for highway driving. The rear design is simple, with vertically arranged taillights matching the rear bumper. Standard rear fog lights enhance safety in harsh weather conditions.

Inside the cabin, the T60's interior is primarily in black. The dashboard layout is clear, with a 10.2-inch touchscreen positioned at the center, offering decent responsiveness and support for basic multimedia and Bluetooth connection functions. The seats are upholstered in fabric, and the front-row seats provide good support, making them comfortable for long durations. In terms of features, keyless entry, a multifunction steering wheel, and a six-speaker sound system come standard, offering convenience for daily use. The safety features stand out, including four airbags, vehicle stability control, lane departure warning, and an active braking system, which are all well-equipped compared to its peers in the same segment.

In terms of space, the 3155mm wheelbase provides a spacious rear seating area. A passenger with a height of 175cm sitting in the rear still has about two fist widths of legroom, with ample headroom. Regarding storage, the front door panels and the central armrest box provide moderate storage space for daily items, and there are additional storage compartments under the rear seats and in the door panels, offering strong practicality. The air conditioning system supports independent front and rear adjustments, with rear air vents enhancing comfort for rear passengers.

In terms of power, the T60 is equipped with a 2.8T turbocharged diesel engine, delivering a maximum power of 152PS and a peak torque output at 4000rpm, paired with an automatic transmission. During the start-up phase, the power response is relatively smooth, but torque output significantly enhances when the engine speed reaches 2000rpm, and stepping on the accelerator firmly provides sufficient power reserve for overtaking. The driving modes include normal and eco mode, where in eco mode, throttle sensitivity is reduced, making it suitable for daily cruising. During fuel consumption tests, the average fuel consumption is approximately 8.5L per 100km under mixed driving conditions, a fairly standard performance for a 2.8T diesel vehicle.

In terms of handling, the steering feels moderately weighted, with decent precision and no significant dead zones. The front suspension uses a double-wishbone independent suspension, while the rear suspension employs a leaf spring structure. On paved roads, the suspension effectively absorbs most minor jolts, providing good comfort. However, when passing speed bumps or uneven roads, jolts are more noticeable in the rear seats, which is a common feature of pickup trucks. The 4x4 all-wheel drive system performs stably on unpaved roads and provides sufficient traction for light off-road conditions, meeting occasional outdoor demands.

In terms of noise control, wind and tire noise are relatively noticeable at high speeds, but the noise suppression of the diesel engine is quite good, allowing in-car conversations to remain unaffected. The seat comfort is commendable, with adequate lumbar support, making long drives less fatiguing. The braking system is responsive, with a moderate braking distance, providing sufficient confidence.

Overall, the core advantages of the 2019 Maxus T60 lie in its abundant safety features, spacious interior, and practical 4x4 system. Compared to competitors in the same segment, such as the Toyota Hilux or Ford Ranger, the T60 is more competitive in terms of active safety features and comes with a more budget-friendly price. This vehicle is suitable for users who need to balance work transport with family outings, especially those who prioritize safety and value for money.

In summary, the 2019 Maxus T60 is a well-balanced pickup truck. Although it falls slightly short in suspension comfort and interior luxury, it compensates for these shortcomings with ample safety features and spaciousness. If you need a pickup that can handle both cargo transport and daily household use, the T60 is worth considering.