SAIC MAXUS T70

Model Overview

The SAIC MAXUS T70 is a global high-end pick-up truck by SAIC MAXUS. Officially launched on 6 June 2019, it was China's first diesel pick-up to comply with China 6b emission standards. Following successive upgrades, the T70 has developed a comprehensive powertrain line-up comprising petrol, diesel, and all-electric (EV) variants, spawning several trim levels including the Standard Edition, Australia Edition, Touring Edition, Off-road Edition, and 5th Anniversary Edition. Positioned in the mid-to-high-end pick-up segment under the brand philosophy of "Born Global, Tailored for Excellence", the T70 caters to a diverse audience seeking commercial utility, family travel, and off-road leisure. In terms of pricing, varying trim levels and equipment packages place the range between RM89,800 and RM299,800.

Design Language

The T70 adopts a "Power Aesthetics" design philosophy for its exterior styling. Up front, it features a bold polygonal grille with prominent "MAXUS" lettering, flanked by large headlamp clusters to deliver a muscular, commanding road presence. The Australia Edition gets an octagonal matrix grille that lends the front fascia a bolder look, complemented by C-shaped fog lamp surrounds on the bumper for a stylish touch. The side profile features rugged bodylines, tapering towards subtly curved tail lamps at the rear.

In terms of dimensions, the T70 is available in standard-wheelbase and long-wheelbase configurations. The standard-wheelbase version measures 5,365 (or 5,375) mm long, 1,900 mm wide, and 1,809 (or 1,845) mm tall, with a 3,155 mm wheelbase; the long-wheelbase model measures 5,680 × 1,900 × 1,809 mm with a 3,470 mm wheelbase. For the cargo bed, the standard deck measures 1,485 (or 1,520) × 1,510 × 530 mm, while the extended bed measures 1,800 × 1,510 × 530 mm. Its 1,900 mm wide-body stance gives it a distinct advantage over segment rivals.

Inside, the T70 moves away from the utilitarian simplicity of conventional pick-ups in favour of a passenger-car-oriented aesthetic. The cabin offers leather upholstery in three colourways—black, brown, and red—alongside a 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat and rear air-conditioning vents. The Australia Edition features a sporty dual-tone red-and-black cabin that enhances the upscale ambience. Courtesy of its class-leading exterior footprint, the cabin boasts 965 mm of tandem seating space, offering rear legroom comparable to mid-to-large SUVs.

Powertrain & Performance

The T70 provides an extensive selection of powertrains. The diesel variant is powered by the SAIC "π" 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine—a recipient of the "China Heart" Top Ten Engines award—producing 120 kW (163 PS) and 400 Nm of peak torque. Petrol options include a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine churning out 157 kW (214 PS) and 350 Nm, which was later updated to SAIC's 20A4E unit with maximum net output raised to 184 kW; there is also a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit pushing out 105 kW (143 PS) and 200 Nm. Gearbox options include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, and a ZF 8-speed automatic. The EV variant features a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 130 kW and 310 Nm, completing the 0–50 km/h sprint in 4.5 seconds. Top speeds for the internal combustion engine (ICE) versions range from 160 to 190 km/h.

Chassis & Handling

Built on a robust ladder-frame chassis (non-load-bearing body structure), the T70 uses double-wishbone coil spring independent suspension up front and a progressive leaf spring rigid axle suspension at the rear; a multi-link rear suspension setup is available as an option on select variants. Drivetrain options include rear-wheel drive (4x2) and part-time four-wheel drive (4x4). The 4WD system utilises an electronically selectable BorgWarner transfer case, paired with an optional rear differential lock. Stopping power is handled by ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. The Off-road Edition boasts an approach angle of 35°, a departure angle of 33°, 300 mm of ground clearance, and an 800 mm wading depth, supplemented by an electric winch, 265 mm wide all-terrain tyres, and 3-stage adjustable dampers. Three selectable drive modes are available: Normal, Eco, and Power.

Cabin & Equipment

In terms of cabin appointments, the T70 comes standard with a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with an optional 10.25-inch floating touchscreen unit. The infotainment runs on the Zebra Zhixing connected system, supporting remote vehicle control, voice recognition, and online media streaming. Keyless entry with push-start button is standard across the range, while higher trims add automatic headlamps, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and a CN95 cabin air filtration system. For the cargo bed, a moulded bedliner is optionally available, with the long-bed variant offering a cargo capacity exceeding 1.23 cubic metres. The Off-road Edition gains dedicated equipment including a heavy-duty steel bull bar, rugged wheel arch claddings, a custom sports bar, and an integrated roller shutter tonneau cover. The EV variant sports a tailgate EV badge to distinguish its electric identity.

Safety & Driver Assistance

The T70 is engineered to meet ANCAP 5-star crash safety standards. Its structural shell incorporates a high-strength steel 5-star safety frame, utilising extensive thermoforming and laser welding technologies. Ultra-high-strength hot-stamped steel with a yield strength exceeding 1,500 MPa is applied across critical structural zones. Active safety is anchored by a Bosch 9.0 Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), integrating a 360-degree surround-view camera, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Driver Fatigue Monitoring, alongside Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Hill Descent Control (HDC). The Australia Edition complies with ANCAP 5-star safety ratings. Developed under stringent European crash safety benchmarks, the EV version features intelligent active power cut-off protection capable of mitigating 16 extreme crash and electrical failure scenarios.

Market Performance & Verdict

The T70 serves as a cornerstone model in SAIC MAXUS's global expansion, having entered 48 international markets within just three years of its debut. Overseas, cumulative sales of SAIC MAXUS pick-ups have exceeded 60,000 units across 52 countries and territories, holding the distinction of being the highest-priced Chinese pick-up brand in developed markets like Australia and New Zealand. In its domestic market, the T70 has captured a solid share in the mid-to-high-end pick-up segment courtesy of its wide array of variants and customisation options. Owner feedback highlights praise for its generous cabin room, robust low-end grunt (particularly the diesel model's 400 Nm torque, which shines under heavy loads and steep gradients), and relatively frugal fuel economy; handling is described as smooth and responsive, paired with capable off-road traction from the 4WD system. On the flip side, some owners note perceptible cabin noise under heavy loads, while urban commercial vehicle restrictions and daily fuel consumption (averaging 8 to 10 L/100 km) remain minor considerations for urban drivers. In summary, the SAIC MAXUS T70 leverages its core strengths of "Global Quality, Versatile Powertrains, and Professional Customisation", standing out as a formidable contender in the mid-to-high-end pick-up truck market with its rugged styling, dependable underpinnings, and well-rounded equipment list.