2021 MG Extender pick-up revealed with mother of all grilles

It was only a couple of weeks ago when Maxus revealed the 2021 T90 pick-up in China. Bolder and sleeker than the current T60, the T90 doesn't look like your typical pick-up truck. It also has a crossover-like interior complete with two-tone leather seats, a massive touchscreen, and piano black trim pieces.

At the time, there was no word yet if it will ever be offered outside of China. However, it looks like the pick-up truck has made its way to the ASEAN region after all. Interestingly, it's not branded as a Maxus. Instead, it will be sold in Southeast Asia under the MG brand as the new Extender.

The 2021 MG Extender is basically the Maxus T90's twin. Revealed at this year's Bangkok International Motor Show, the refreshed Extender features a stylish new front end, a more refined interior, and updated technologies.

Like the T90, the MG Extender features a prominent chrome grille, slim LED daytime running lights, and a distinct front bumper. Meanwhile, the rear gets restyled taillights, an updated tailgate design, and a new rear bumper. Perhaps the only difference the Extender gets, visually are the MG badges that replace the Maxus logos.

Stepping inside, the Extender is available with leather upholstery, automatic climate control, multi-function steering wheel, 10-inch touchscreen infotainment, engine start/stop button, and faux metal accents that spruce up the cabin. It also has a voice command system that can be used to activate the navigation system, climate control, sound system, as well as make/receive calls.

Other available amenities on the 2021 Extender include power-adjustable front seats, leather steering wheel, rear aircon vents, two-tone leather seats, cruise control, and a center armrest for the rear occupants.

Under the hood, the 2021 Extender is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel inline-four. It makes 161 PS, along with 375 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to either a six-speed manual gearbox or six-speed automatic transmission. 4WD is available on higher-grade models.

A wide array of safety systems are fitted on the refreshed Extender. From anti-lock brakes, brake assist, stability/traction control, tire pressure monitoring, blind-spot warning, 360-degree around-view camera, rear parking sensors, hill-start assist, and six airbags, the 2021 MG Extender comes loaded with them all.

With the 2021 MG Extender now in Thailand, could the Philippines be next to receive it? Perhaps, but with MG yet to enter the pick-up truck market locally, we might actually get this particular truck from Maxus since they're already selling the T60 here. We're keeping our fingers crossed Maxus actually offers the T90 with the twin-turbo diesel engine that pushes out 218 PS and 500 Nm of torque.