Maxus T60 MAX: Diesel attack on Hilux, Ranger & Co
Maxus. A name that has so far made a name for itself in Germany primarily with humming electric motors in vans like the eDeliver or the spacious family van MIFA 9. The brand is known for its future-oriented, locally emission-free solutions. This makes it all the more interesting to see the SAIC subsidiary now embarking on a course that may surprise some.
Curtain up and stage clear for the Maxus T60 MAX, the brand's first non-electric model in Germany , and—believe it or not—with a classic diesel engine under the hood. Behind the simple name lies a pickup truck that, with its combination of robustness, technology, and value for money, could become a serious challenger to traditional heroes like the Toyota Hilux , Ford Ranger , Isuzu D-Max , and VW Amarok .
The exterior of the T60 MAX exudes determined muscularity: A wide, angular grille frames the Maxus emblem, and dynamic lines extend across the sides to the distinctively flared wheel arches. At 5.395 meters long and with a wheelbase of 3,155 millimeters, it offers exactly the same dimensions as the Toyota Hilux , both visually and practically, without noticeably compromising on performance. The cargo area measures 1.485 by 1.510 meters and can accommodate a payload of up to 975 kilograms, while a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kilograms ensures serious workhorse qualities.
Once you get inside, it quickly becomes clear: Maxus isn't relying on the austere, drab commercial vehicle interior either. For the German market, the company has decided to offer the T60 MAX directly in the Luxury trim level, and the name certainly says it all. Passengers sit on leather seats, the front ones even electrically adjustable and heated – making the trip to the construction site almost like a business-class trip.
Image by: Maxus
Image by: Maxus
Image by: Maxus
A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provides all the important information, and an equally large touchscreen in the center console serves as the command center for the infotainment system, which, of course, supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Dual-zone automatic climate control, a keyless entry system, and a 360-degree camera round out the comfort package. It's clear that this isn't just a place to work, but also to arrive relaxed.
So, there's plenty of diesel power under the hood. Propulsion is provided by a two-liter, four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engine, producing a respectable 218 hp and delivering a maximum torque of 500 Newton meters to the crankshaft. The engine is mated as standard to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, known for smooth yet swift gearshifts. Power is transmitted via a selectable all-wheel drive system, which also features a low-range gear ratio for tricky passages.
Image by: Maxus
With the T60 MAX, Maxus isn't breaking new ground; the German pickup market is fiercely competitive. However, the company seems to be pursuing a clear plan: a lot of pickup for the money. The price for the fully equipped pickup is under €48,000. This puts Maxus squarely at the feet of the established players. A look at the competition reveals where the Maxus intends to fit in.
The Isuzu D-Max , for example, in the LS trim, is known for its resilience and reliability—a true workhorse that now faces another challenger enticing customers with truly opulent standard equipment. The KGM Musso , which also offers attractive value for money in the LUX trim level, also gets a new sparring partner in the T60 MAX, which could raise the bar even higher in terms of equipment.
Image by: Maxus
Image by: Maxus
Image by: Maxus
Then there's the legendary Toyota Hilux , whose reputation for durability precedes it. It's traditionally in a league of its own when it comes to robustness and value retention, but it also comes at a price. And let's not forget the dynamic duo from Germany, the Ford Ranger and the VW Amarok . They impress with a wide range of models, a car-like driving experience, and powerful engines, but here, too, anyone wanting comparably lavish equipment will usually have to dig deep into their pockets.
The fact that Maxus can build pickup trucks isn't groundbreaking news from a global perspective. The parent company, SAIC, is one of China's largest automakers and offers a wide range of commercial vehicles. Models like the SAIC Maxus Interstellar , which is offered in some international markets and will be produced in South America as the VW Amarok II starting in 2027, demonstrate the company's expertise and ambitions in this segment as well.
Even more pick-ups
The T60 MAX is more than just another model in the pickup truck landscape; it's a clear statement and an ambitious attempt to steal market share from established players. Whether it can meet the high expectations and prevail against strong competition remains to be seen. The prospects, in terms of performance, impressive standard equipment, and an aggressive price, are certainly promising.
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