Is the Ldv D90 model year 2016 (2018-Present) reliable in Australia?

This generation is summarized with a trust score of 55 out of 100 based on recurring themes in owner reports and platform notes (not a lab test). Use the buy/avoid lists and inspection points below before purchase.

Which Ldv D90 model year 2016 configuration should I buy used?

2.0L Turbo Petrol (165kW) with 6-speed Automatic: Generally simpler powertrain with fewer reported issues compared to the diesel Adequate power for city and highway driving

Which Ldv D90 model year 2016 configurations should I avoid?

2.0L Twin-Turbo Diesel (160kW) with 8-speed Automatic: Reports of DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) issues, especially with frequent short trips Potential for turbocharger longevity concerns

What should I inspect on a used Ldv D90 model year 2016?

Electrical glitches (e.g., infotainment, sensors) Interior trim quality and durability concerns Suspension components (bushes, shock absorbers) showing premature wear Rust spots reported in some early models

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REPORT: LDV > D90 > MODEL YEAR 2016 (2018-Present)

Used car reliability snapshot for Australia: Ldv D90 model year 2016 (2018-Present). Compare recommended configurations, known weak points, and inspection priorities before you buy.

Vehicle background from retrieved sources

The LDV D90 is a large, body-on-frame SUV produced by Chinese manufacturer SAIC, marketed as a value-oriented family vehicle in Australia. It competes with vehicles like the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Isuzu MU-X, offering significant space and features for its price point.

Body styles: 5-door SUV

Drivetrains: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Part-time Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

The LDV D90 was first introduced to the Australian market in late 2017, with model years typically starting from 2018. Information for a 2016 model year D90 is not applicable, and this summary pertains to the actual production years of the D90.

Trust score: 55 / 100

Verdict: CAUTION

RECOMMENDED CONFIGURATIONS (THE 'BUY' LIST)

2.0L Turbo Petrol (165kW) with 6-speed Automatic
- Generally simpler powertrain with fewer reported issues compared to the diesel
- Adequate power for city and highway driving
- Good value for money

CONFIGURATIONS TO AVOID (THE 'LEMON' LIST)

2.0L Twin-Turbo Diesel (160kW) with 8-speed Automatic
- Reports of DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) issues, especially with frequent short trips
- Potential for turbocharger longevity concerns
- Some users report transmission hesitation or rough shifts

Used car buyer guide (Australia)

Common problems & platform risks

For the Ldv D90 model year 2016 (2018-Present), recurring issues often cluster around specific engines, transmissions, and shared chassis electronics. The trust score reflects how often serious powertrain or drivetrain problems show up in real-world reports versus routine maintenance. Always verify with a pre-purchase inspection and service history.

What to inspect before you buy

Use the platform-wide inspection list above for leaks, rust, suspension wear, and electronics. On a test drive, listen for drivetrain noises, check transmission behaviour when hot, and scan for warning lights. In Australia, heat and urban short trips can accelerate wear—factor in climate-appropriate servicing.

Best engine or trim to target

A typical starting point is configurations similar to: 2.0L Turbo Petrol (165kW) with 6-speed Automatic. Cross-check against the recommended list and your budget; the "sweet spot" often balances fewer reported failures with parts availability.

Configurations to be cautious about

Sources frequently flag higher risk around: 2.0L Twin-Turbo Diesel (160kW) with 8-speed Automatic. That does not mean every car fails—use it as a prioritisation list for inspection and price negotiation.

Ownership cost signals

Higher reported failure rates usually mean more workshop time and parts cost. Before buying, get quotes for common jobs on this generation (timing, fluids, suspension, transmission service) from an independent specialist familiar with the brand.

PLATFORM-WIDE QUIRKS & INSPECTION POINTS (ALL MODELS)

Electrical glitches (e.g., infotainment, sensors)
Interior trim quality and durability concerns
Suspension components (bushes, shock absorbers) showing premature wear
Rust spots reported in some early models

Frequently asked questions

Is the Ldv D90 model year 2016 (2018-Present) reliable in Australia?: This generation is summarized with a trust score of 55 out of 100 based on recurring themes in owner reports and platform notes (not a lab test). Use the buy/avoid lists and inspection points below before purchase.
Which Ldv D90 model year 2016 configuration should I buy used?: 2.0L Turbo Petrol (165kW) with 6-speed Automatic: Generally simpler powertrain with fewer reported issues compared to the diesel Adequate power for city and highway driving
Which Ldv D90 model year 2016 configurations should I avoid?: 2.0L Twin-Turbo Diesel (160kW) with 8-speed Automatic: Reports of DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) issues, especially with frequent short trips Potential for turbocharger longevity concerns
What should I inspect on a used Ldv D90 model year 2016?: Electrical glitches (e.g., infotainment, sensors) Interior trim quality and durability concerns Suspension components (bushes, shock absorbers) showing premature wear Rust spots reported in some early models

Sources

No web sources were attached to this report. This usually means grounding was unavailable and the fallback structured generation mode was used.