Shift in the balance of power
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Despite its age and lack of active safety kit the T60 ute tempts buyers with its circa$40,000 starting price and hearty fourcylinder diesel engine. It’s let down by less than ideal vehicle dynamics, though.
There’s also the et60 EV version, which is a basic two-wheel drive ute for an eye-watering $93,000.
Those wanting a large SUV may be tempted by the $38,990 drive-away price tag on the D90. It rides on a basic ladder frame typically chosen for towing or off-roading. By the time you get four-wheel drive and diesel, the D90 is $51,990.
The newest in the LDV range is the Mifa, a Kia Carnival-rivalling people mover with a tech-laden cabin and plush finishes. With prices from $53,990 it sits above the budgets of many families. There’s also an EV version known as Mifa 9, although pricing is well into six figures.
COMING SOON: The D90 SUV is due for an update within months, bringing a much bolder nose and tweaks elsewhere.
The ageing G10 delivery van will also be replaced by a more modern-looking vehicle that may be called V70.
CHERY
Chery only relaunched in Australia last month and plans to be a major player within years.
Those plans start with the Omoda 5 compact SUV, currently the only model in dealerships. It’s a classy-looking five-seater that comes with a tempting circa-$32,500 drive-away price. There’s no shortage of standard gear, either, including dual digital displays inside and wireless phone charging.
It’s another few grand for the EX with a sunroof, powered tailgate and 360-degree parking camera.
As with other Chinese cars, the hyperactive driver assistance systems can make it painful to live with.
COMING SOON: Chery plans to import larger SUVS including the Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro.
BYD
Despite arriving here only late last year, BYD has established itself as the third best-selling electric car brand here – emulating its EV success in its homeland.
There’s only one BYD model for now, the Atto 3 compact electric SUV, which is priced from about $50,000 drive-away.
It set a new benchmark at the entry point of the EV market for being fun to drive, although it occasionally struggles to get its power to the road.
COMING SOON: The small hatchback Dolphin EV is earmarked for the local market, as is the Seal, a larger and more expensive Tesla Model 3 rival.