JAC’s latest bakkie combines style and performance
The JAC T9 is set to make waves in the South African market with its striking design and advanced features.
JAC Motors is making a significant impact in South Africa’s bakkie market, and the newly unveiled T9 is poised to captivate even more attention. This remarkable vehicle was introduced just six months ago at the Shanghai Automotive Show, following over four years of extensive global development and testing.
The T9 represents JAC Motors’ most advanced bakkie to date, constructed on the company’s third-generation international light commercial vehicle (LCV) platform. Originating as a truck manufacturer in China 60 years ago, JAC Motors transitioned to the LCV and passenger car markets in 2007, producing the T9 range in China for exportation to over 40 countries where the brand has a notable presence.
With its formidable presence on the road, the T9 is leading JAC Motors’ charge into the rapidly expanding leisure-focused double-cab market. The T9 2.0L CTi range offers four Lux and Super Lux derivatives, featuring 4×2 and 4×4 configurations. Prices range from R529 900 for the T9 2.0L CTi 4×2 Lux to R649 900.
Powerful engine options
The T9 range debuts with a new engine line-up from JAC Motors. The initial offering is equipped with a 2.0 litre turbo-diesel engine. Future additions to the selection include a 2.0 litre turbo-petrol engine, battery electric vehicle and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle models scheduled for 2024.
The T9’s responsive 2.0 litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, which features an intercooler and electrical variable geometry turbocharger, delivers 125kW and 410Nm, ensuring remarkable everyday drivability. The engine, coupled with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, offers various driving modes like Sport, Normal, Eco and Snow for maximum efficiency and a comfortable driving experience. The 4×4 models come with electronic part-time 4WD, low range and a rear diff lock for enhanced off-road capabilities.
For the 4×2 variant, the fuel index is an impressive 7.8L/100km (combined cycle), providing a substantial 1 000km driving range with its 76L tank. Karl-Heinz Göbel, the CEO of JAC Motors South Africa, says: “The T9 combines ample power, spacious comfort for family outings and lifestyle adventures with brilliant fuel economy – a significant factor for today’s discerning buyers.”
Impressive standard features
Safety is paramount in the T9 line-up. It includes high-strength steel construction, multilayer anti-collision beams and six airbags, including a front centre airbag – a world-first. Other standard features consist of a traction control system, vehicle dynamics control, electronic stability control and hill-start hold control.
The Super Lux variant goes further by offering front parking sensors, welcome lamps, foldaway side mirrors and a practical 360-degree view camera to enhance on- and off-road visibility.
The range features a 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, equipped with Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. It provides important vehicle information, including the 360-degree view camera and the valuable tyre pressure monitoring system.
As Göbel aptly puts it: “The T9 is more than a double-cab bakkie. It combines power, advanced safety and luxurious comfort with the drivability of a passenger car, delivering a complete lifestyle experience.”
For off-road enthusiasts, the T9 4×4 variants come with BorgWarner’s electronically controlled part-time four-wheel drive system, allowing easy transitions between two-wheel drive (2H) and four-wheel drive (4H) up to 80km/h. It also features low-speed four-wheel drive (4L) for enhanced off-road capability, along with a rear diff lock, ZF eight-speed transmission and hill descent control. With a 27-degree approach angle, a 23-degree departure angle and 210mm ground clearance, the T9 is well-equipped for challenging terrains.
“The new T9 is the ideal lifestyle bakkie for adventurous families, offering luxurious comfort on journeys to uncharted destinations while effortlessly navigating challenging terrains,” concludes Göbel.
Source: QuickPic
