India-bound SAIC's Toyota Fortuner rival lands in Australia

14/04/2017 - 10:36 LDV D90, Toyota Aravind Jayachandran

It's called the LDV D90; motor show debut at the 2017 Shanghai Auto Show.

Ahead of its motor show debut at the 2017 Shanghai Auto Show which opens 19 April, China's SAIC has unveiled the LDV D90 SUV in Australia. It is confirmed to launch in Australia by the end of 2017, following the launch of LDV's ute - the T60.

LDV D90 (Toyota Fortuner rival) front three quarter unveiled — The D90 is confirmed to launch in Australia by the end of 2017.

Previewed by the Maxus D90 concept car at Auto China 2016, the model will slot in the full-size ladder frame-based SUVs that comprise of the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, Holden Trailblazer, Isuzu MU-X and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. It will be based on a ladder frame platform shared with the LDV T60 pick up and will pack a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 110 kW, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and 4WD drivetrain.

LDV D90 (Toyota Fortuner rival) front and rear unveiled — Under the hood is a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 110 kW.

The exterior tries its best to come off as a unique design, but there are several similarities with cars from international brands, the most noticeable of all being the Audi-inspired Octagonal grille. The interior was spied at a previous instance, featuring cues borrowed from BMW, but having a premium, contemporary look. It does look slightly more luxurious than the competition.

More information and photos are expected at its unveil next week.