Category: JAC SUV

Chinese automaker JAC is getting ready to make waves in the South African SUV market with the upcoming launch of its highly anticipated 7-seater SUV, unofficially dubbed the “T9 SUV”.

Following in the footsteps of brands like Chery, which re-entered the South African market in 2021 and quickly built a loyal following, JAC is poised to take on some heavyweights in the adventure SUV segment. Set to be unveiled locally in the second quarter of 2025, this rugged, bakkie-based SUV is aimed squarely at rivals such as the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.

What To Expect

JAC is leveraging the platform of its latest T9 bakkie to bring a robust SUV to market, following the trend of other manufacturers that have successfully turned their pickup trucks into go-anywhere family vehicles. The T9 SUV will ride on the same body-on-frame architecture as the T9 bakkie (JL32 architecture), providing excellent off-road capabilities, ground clearance, and seating for seven as standard.

Powertrain And Performance

JAC has remained tight-lipped about the full specs of the T9 SUV, but based on what we’ve seen from the T9 bakkie, we can make some educated guesses. It’s highly likely that the T9 SUV will carry over the 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine found in the bakkie, producing 125kW and 410 Nm of torque. This powertrain will most likely be paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while giving drivers access to various driving modes, such as Normal, Eco, Sport, and Snow.

Rugged And Aggressive

From a design standpoint, the T9 SUV shares much of its styling cues with the T9 bakkie, including its prominent JAC badge, bold front grille, and sleek LED headlights. However, the SUV will feature its own unique touches, including a distinctive rear design with a spare wheel mounted on the tailgate.

Expect to see protective wheel-arch cladding, roof rails, and rugged tail lights, giving the SUV a tougher look. Despite its robust design, the T9 SUV is likely to have a more refined and family-friendly approach than its bakkie sibling, with a slightly shorter wheelbase for improved handling.

Interior And Features

The T9 bakkie is available in Lux and Super Lux trims, and it’s possible the SUV will offer similar high-end specifications.

Standard features could include leather upholstery, climate control, keyless entry, and a 10.4-inch infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims could add even more luxury with heated front seats, a sunroof and a 360-degree camera. All of this suggests that the T9 SUV will offer a mix of practicality and comfort, ideal for larger families or those looking for a capable 7-seater that doesn’t skimp on tech.

What To Look Forward To

JAC’s T9 SUV promises to bring a lot to the table when it arrives in South Africa. With a powerful engine, versatile off-road capability, and seating for seven, it’s set to be a competitive option in the bakkie-based SUV market.

While pricing and full specifications are yet to be confirmed, JAC’s history of competitive pricing means that the T9 SUV is likely to undercut its rivals, making it a strong contender for South Africans looking for value, performance, and style in a 7-seater SUV.

Keep an eye out for more details as the T9 SUV’s official launch draws closer. It’s set to be an exciting addition to the SUV market in 2025. Meanwhile, if you’re eager to explore JAC’s current range, feel free to visit your nearest Group1 JAC dealership.

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