The Australian ute market is one of the most competitive automotive segments, with brands like Toyota, Ford, and Isuzu dominating the landscape. However, Chinese manufacturer LDV is making bold strides to challenge the status quo with the introduction of the 2025 LDV Terron 9. This all-new dual-cab ute, available in both diesel and electric variants, is set to join the existing T60 lineup, offering buyers a larger, more advanced, and versatile option. With its modern design, robust performance, and competitive pricing, the Terron 9 aims to carve out a significant share of the market. This article dives into the pricing, specifications, features, and competitive positioning of the 2025 LDV Terron 9, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers.
Overview of the LDV Terron 9
The 2025 LDV Terron 9 marks a significant evolution for the brand, representing its first all-new ute in nearly a decade. Unlike the T60, which has been a staple in LDV’s Australian lineup since 2017, the Terron 9 is designed to compete directly with heavyweights like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux. It is larger, more powerful, and packed with advanced technology, making it a compelling choice for tradies, adventurers, and fleet operators alike. The Terron 9 will be sold alongside the T60, offering buyers a broader range of options at different price points. Additionally, the electric eTerron 9 introduces a forward-thinking option for eco-conscious buyers, positioning LDV as a pioneer in the electric ute segment.
Pricing and Variants
The 2025 LDV Terron 9 is available in two diesel variants: the entry-level Origin and the premium Evolve. Pricing starts at $50,990 drive-away for ABN holders ($53,674 for private buyers) for the Origin, with an introductory offer of $49,990 drive-away at select dealers. The Evolve grade is priced at $55,990 drive-away for ABN holders ($58,937 for private buyers), with an introductory price of $54,990 drive-away. These prices position the Terron 9 as a value-driven alternative to competitors like the Ford Ranger XL 4×4 dual-cab ($50,880 before on-road costs) and the GWM Cannon Alpha ($49,990 drive-away with ABN). However, it is notably more expensive than the T60 Max Pro, which starts at $42,990 drive-away for ABN holders.
The electric eTerron 9 pricing remains unconfirmed, but given the outgoing eT60’s high price of $92,990 before on-road costs, expectations are that the eTerron 9 will be priced competitively, potentially around $100,000 to align with its advanced features and improved performance.
|
Model |
Variant |
Price (ABN, Drive-Away) |
Price (Private, Drive-Away) |
Introductory Price (ABN, Drive-Away) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Terron 9 Diesel |
Origin |
$50,990 | $53,674 | $49,990 |
|
Terron 9 Diesel |
Evolve |
$55,990 | $58,937 | $54,990 |
|
eTerron 9 (Electric) |
TBD |
TBD |
TBD |
TBD |
|
T60 Max (Reference) |
Pro Auto |
$42,990 | $45,253 |
N/A |
Powertrain and Performance
Diesel Terron 9
The diesel-powered Terron 9 is equipped with a 2.5-litre single-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine, producing 163.5kW of power and 520Nm of torque. This makes it one of the most powerful four-cylinder diesel utes in its class, surpassed only by the Toyota HiLux GR Sport (165kW/550Nm). The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmissionand offers a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, with the latter designed for on- and off-road capability. The Terron 9 boasts a 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity, matching top-selling competitors, and a payload ranging from 979kg to 1329kg, depending on the gross vehicle mass (GVM) configuration (3320kg or 3500kg). Fuel efficiency is rated at 7.9L/100km, supported by an 80-litre fuel tank, and the ute complies with Euro 5 emissions standards.
Electric eTerron 9
The eTerron 9 is a significant leap forward from the eT60, which struggled with limited range and towing capacity. It is available in two configurations: a single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup with 200kW of power and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive version with 325kW (200kW rear, 125kW front). The dual-motor variant achieves an impressive 0-100km/h time of 5.8 seconds, making it one of the quickest utes in its segment. Powered by a 102kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, the eTerron 9 offers a 430km WLTP-rated driving range, a substantial improvement over the eT60’s 330km. It supports 115kW DC fast charging, enabling a 20-80% charge in approximately 40 minutes, and includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability for powering external devices. Like its diesel counterpart, the eTerron 9 supports a 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity, though its payload is lower at 620kg for the dual-motor model.
Design and Dimensions
The Terron 9 is a larger vehicle than the T60, measuring 5500mm long, 1997mm wide, and 1874mm tall (1860mm for the eTerron 9), with a 3300mm wheelbase. Compared to the T60 Max Plus, it is 105mm longer, 97mm wider, 41mm taller, and has a 125mm longer wheelbase, making it a closer rival to the Ford Ranger and GWM Cannon Alpha in size. Its 220mm ground clearance (215mm when laden) and approach/departure angles (29°/25°) ensure solid off-road capability. The diesel model features a traditional grille with T-shaped daytime-running lights, while the electric version sports a closed-off front with C-shaped lights, both drawing inspiration from the Maxus GST concept for a bold, Hummer-like aesthetic.
Features and Technology
The Terron 9 is designed to offer a premium experience, blending workhorse capability with modern comfort. The Originvariant comes standard with:
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Dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and driver information
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Wireless/wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
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18-inch alloy wheels
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Rear differential lock
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Cloth seats with power-adjustable front seats
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A full suite of advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane-keep assist, and speed sign recognition
The Evolve grade adds:
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20-inch alloy wheels
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Front differential lock
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JBL audio system
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Heated and ventilated front seats
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Heated rear seats
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Additional luxury touches
The eTerron 9 enhances the interior with a frunk (front trunk) for additional storage and a modern cabin design with ample storage options. Both models feature disc brakes all-round, a rarity in the ute segment, and a leaf spring rear suspension for durability.
Safety and Testing
LDV has prioritized safety for the Terron 9, with extensive local testing conducted across New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland to calibrate features like traffic sign recognition, lane-keep assist, and other driver aids for Australian conditions. While the Terron 9 has not yet been rated by ANCAP, the T60’s five-star rating (expired in 2024) suggests LDV’s commitment to safety. The inclusion of AEB as standard across the range aligns with Australia’s mandatory safety requirements from March 2025.
Competitive Positioning
The Terron 9 enters a crowded market but stands out with its competitive pricing and robust feature set. Compared to the Ford Ranger XL 4×4 ($50,880 before on-roads), the Terron 9 Origin offers a lower drive-away price and more standard features, such as dual 12.3-inch screens. The GWM Cannon Alpha ($49,990 drive-away with ABN) is a close competitor in size and price, but the Terron 9’s more powerful diesel engine and advanced safety features give it an edge. The Toyota HiLux remains a benchmark, but its higher price point for comparable trims makes the Terron 9 an attractive value proposition. The eTerron 9, meanwhile, targets fleet operators and eco-conscious buyers, competing with the likes of the BYD Shark 6 plug-in hybrid and potential future electric utes.
Market Strategy and Availability
LDV’s decision to sell the Terron 9 alongside the T60 reflects a strategy to cater to diverse buyer needs. The T60 remains a budget-friendly option, while the Terron 9 targets those seeking a larger, more feature-rich ute. The diesel Terron 9 is set to arrive in Australian showrooms in July 2025, with limited numbers initially, followed by increased production. The eTerron 9 is expected between April and June 2025. A rebadged version, the MG U9, will launch later in 2025 with similar specifications but distinct styling, further expanding the SAIC Motor family’s presence in Australia.
Warranty and Servicing
The Terron 9 is backed by LDV’s 7-year/200,000km warranty (160,000km for EVs) and 5-year/unlimited-km roadside assistance. The first service is required at 12 months/10,000km, with subsequent services every 12 months/15,000km. LDV’s nationwide dealer network supports servicing and parts, ensuring accessibility for owners.
Looking Forward
The 2025 LDV Terron 9 is a bold addition to Australia’s ute market, offering a compelling blend of size, power, and technology at a competitive price. With diesel and electric variants, it caters to both traditional buyers and those embracing electrification. While it faces stiff competition from established players, its value-driven pricing, modern features, and robust performance make it a strong contender. Whether you’re a tradie needing a workhorse or an adventurer seeking capability and comfort, the Terron 9 is poised to deliver. Stay tuned for its showroom debut in mid-2025, when it will join the T60 to broaden LDV’s appeal in Australia’s thriving ute segment.
