JAC’s new T9 bakkie has finally arrived in South Africa, having been first announced nearly a year ago in December 2022.
The T9 is the company’s fresh-faced flagship and is currently available in four specifications that share a single diesel engine, but more powertrains are scheduled to arrive in 2024, including a petrol, battery electric, and plug-in hybrid – the latter of which should be the first of its kind in the country.
Prices for the double cab currently start at R529,900 for the entry-level 4×2, but you’ll need to spend a total of R649,900 if you want everything included in the range-topping 4×4.
This is what you can expect from JAC’s new headline bakkie in South Africa.
What you get
Until its other powerplants arrive in South Africa, the T9 is exclusively sold with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine with a total of 125kW and 410Nm to its name.
There are two trim levels – Lux and Super Lux – and both of these have a rear-wheel and four-wheel-drive option for a total of four units, though in all cases an eight-speed automatic transmission is used to handle gearshifts.
Fuel consumption works out to 7.8l/100km, which gives the bakkie a driving range of approximately 1,000km thanks to its 76-litre tank, according to the manufacturer.
The light-commercial vehicle is 5,330mm long, 1,965mm wide, and 1,920mm tall, with a load bed that measures 1,520mm by 1,590mm by 470mm. This storage bin is capable of hauling 1,000kg, while the JAC itself can tow another 3,500kg.
The AWD models use a part-time system with a low-range transfer box and a rear differential lock as standard, though all units have driving modes for Sport, Normal, Eco, and Snow.
Also worth noting is the T9’s ground clearance of 210mm, wading depth of 700mm, approach angle of 27.0 degrees, and departure angle of 23.0 degrees.
On the equipment front, all buyers will get automatic xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels, a multifunction steering wheel, keyless entry and start, leather upholstery, cruise control, automatic climate control, an electronically-adjustable driver seat, a 7.0-inch digital driver display, a wireless phone charger, front and rear USB ports, and a 10.4-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This is in addition to having vehicle dynamics control, electronic stability control, tyre-pressure monitoring, six airbags, traction control, hill assist, ABS, electronic brake-force distribution, rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera.
Opting for the top-spec Super Lux will then add auto-folding side mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, welcome lights, a 360-degree camera, a sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, heated front seats, an electronic front passenger seat, privacy glass, and front parking sensors.
Each purchase comes with a 5-year/100,000km warranty and a 5-year/100,000km service and roadside assistance plan.
Keyword: JAC’s new T9 flagship double cab – What you get for R650,000