🏁 Introduction to LDV D90
The LDV D90 is a full-size ladder-frame SUV developed by LDV (a brand owned by SAIC Motor). It entered the market as a budget-friendly alternative to premium SUVs like Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, and Isuzu MU-X.
The SUV was first launched in 2017 and has seen multiple updates, including a major refresh for 2025 with improved engine performance and modern technology.
🚘 Exterior Design: Bold & Muscular Look
The LDV D90 carries a strong road presence thanks to its:
- Large front grille
- Boxy SUV proportions
- High ground clearance
- LED headlights and DRLs
The design is aggressive and practical rather than overly stylish. Its rugged body makes it suitable for both urban roads and off-road adventures.
According to reviews, the SUV has an “imposing figure on the road” with a bold stance and large dimensions.
📏 Dimensions & Road Presence
Being a full-size SUV, the D90 is large and spacious:
- Length: Approx. 5000 mm
- Width: Around 1930 mm
- Height: Around 1875 mm
- Wheelbase: ~2950 mm
These dimensions ensure strong road presence and excellent cabin space.
⚙️ Engine & Performance
🔧 Engine Options
The LDV D90 has been offered with different engine options over the years:
Older Models:
- 2.0L Turbo Petrol → 165kW / 350Nm
- 2.0L Twin-Turbo Diesel → 160kW / 480Nm
Latest 2025 Model:
- 2.0L Turbo Petrol (Updated)
- Power: 184kW / 410Nm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
🚀 Driving Performance
The D90 is designed more for comfort than performance.
👍 Pros:
- Smooth driving in city conditions
- Comfortable suspension
- Light steering for easy maneuvering
👎 Cons:
- Feels underpowered when fully loaded
- Slower acceleration compared to rivals
- Noticeable body roll in corners
Reviews mention that the engine can feel “strained when fully loaded” and takes time to build speed.
⛽ Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency depends on the engine:
- Petrol: ~9–11 L/100 km
- Diesel (older): Better efficiency than petrol
The latest model improves fuel economy slightly to around 9.1–9.4 L/100 km.
However, compared to diesel rivals like Fortuner, fuel efficiency is slightly lower.
🛋️ Interior & Comfort
Step inside the LDV D90, and you’ll notice a focus on space and practicality.
🪑 Seating Capacity:
- 7-seater configuration
- Comfortable for families
🧳 Space:
- Large boot space
- Flexible seating (foldable rear seats)
✨ Interior Features:
- Large touchscreen infotainment system
- Digital instrument cluster
- Leather seats (top variant)
- Electric seat adjustment
The updated model offers a more premium cabin with improved materials and layout.
📱 Technology & Infotainment
The D90 includes:
- Touchscreen infotainment
- Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Navigation system
- Premium sound system
While feature-rich, some reviews mention software lag and average UI quality.
🛡️ Safety Features
The LDV D90 comes equipped with strong safety features:
- 5-star ANCAP safety rating
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Automatic emergency braking
- Multiple airbags
This makes it a safe family SUV.
🛻 Off-Road Capability
Being a ladder-frame SUV, the D90 is capable off-road.
Key Features:
- 4WD system
- Terrain modes (sand, mud, snow)
- Rear differential lock
- High ground clearance
It performs well on rough terrain, although it’s not as refined as premium off-road SUVs.
🚛 Towing Capacity
The LDV D90 is also suitable for towing:
- Petrol: ~2000 kg
- Diesel: Up to 3100 kg
- 2025 Model: Around 3000 kg
Perfect for caravans, trailers, and outdoor trips.
💰 Price & Value for Money
One of the biggest advantages of the LDV D90 is pricing.
- Starting price: Around $40,000+
- Top variant: Around $50,000+
Compared to rivals like Toyota Fortuner, it is significantly cheaper.
👉 That’s why it’s considered a value-for-money SUV.
⚖️ LDV D90 vs Competitors
Competes with:
- Toyota Fortuner
- Ford Everest
- Isuzu MU-X
- Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
🆚 Comparison Highlights:
| Feature | LDV D90 | Rivals |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Features | More | Moderate |
| Engine | Less powerful | Strong diesel |
| Brand trust | Lower | High |
👉 Conclusion: D90 wins in price but loses in refinement and performance.
👍 Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Affordable price
- Spacious 7-seater
- Good feature list
- Comfortable ride
- Decent off-road ability
❌ Cons:
- Underpowered petrol engine
- Average build quality
- Software issues
- Brand reliability concerns
🧠 Real Owner Feedback (From Community)
From Reddit discussions:
“Feature heavy but feels cheap over time”
“Good space and value, but quality could be better”
Some users also reported:
- Electrical issues
- Battery problems in older models
👉 This shows mixed long-term ownership experience.
🏁 Final Verdict: Should You Buy LDV D90?
The LDV D90 is a great option if you want:
✔ A big 7-seater SUV
✔ Budget-friendly pricing
✔ Modern features
✔ Family comfort
But avoid it if you want:
❌ Premium build quality
❌ Strong performance
❌ Long-term reliability assurance
🎯 Conclusion
The LDV D90 is not the best SUV in its class — but it is definitely one of the best value-for-money full-size SUVs available today.
If your priority is space, affordability, and features, the D90 makes a strong case. However, if you want performance and reliability, traditional brands like Toyota or Ford still lead the segment.