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P L UMB I N G CO N N E C T I O N
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LDV V80
C
hinese auto giant SAIC has relaunched its LDV V80 in
Australia through a new distributor, Ateco Automotive,
which has reduced the starting point of the light
commercial van to less than $30,000.
In a pitch to price-sensitive small business operators,
the V80 range now kicks off from $29,990 drive away for
ABN holders. This brings the entry level short-wheelbase
(3,100mm) model, while the long-wheelbase (3,850mm)
versions – still available in either mid or high roof variants –
are priced from $34,990 and $38,990 respectively.
As before, the V80 is based on a front-wheel-drive
platform originally developed by the now defunct Leyland
DAF commercial vehicle group but thoroughly revised under
SAIC as a key export model to western markets such as
Australia and Europe.
Power comes from a VM Motori-sourced 2.5L turbo-
diesel engine developing 100kW of power at 3,800rpm and
330Nm of torque from 1,800-2,600rpm, paired with a five-
speed manual gearbox or, for a further $2,000, a six-speed
automated manual transmission. Combined-cycle fuel
consumption is listed as 8.9L per 100km.
The SWB offers a payload of 1,160kg with a 3.2t GVM, and
the two LWB variants deliver a 1,480kg payload in a 3.5t GVM
package. Cargo volume ranges from 6.4m³ to 10.4m³ on the
LWB mid-roof and 11.6m³ on the high roof model.
The equipment level remains generous across the range,
with standard features including 16" alloy wheels, dual
sliding side doors, rear barn doors (opening to 180º), front
and rear fog lights, four reverse parking sensors, remote
central locking, dual airbags and ABS brakes with EBD and
brake assist. Four-wheel disc brakes are also fitted.
Cabin creature comforts include air conditioning, cruise
control, power windows, eight-way adjustable driver’s seat
and a stereo with MP3 player. Three seating positions are
provided.
The cargo area is easily accessed with a low floor height,
aided by non-slip entry steps, interior lighting, heavy duty
floor mat and recessed tie-down points.
The all-important cargo measurements are 2,550mm
(SWB) or 3,300mm (LWB) in length, width of 1,770mm across
the range (1380mm between the wheel arches), while height
is 1,505mm on the SWB, 1,710mm on the LWB mid-roof and
1,925mm on the high roof version.
Ateco offers a three year/100,000km warranty with
roadside assistance.
LDV
www.ldvautomotive.com.au.