Category: T9
An All-New Bakkie-Based SUV Set For SA
Posted by Group1 JAC on 21 Oct 2024
T9 Modelled JAC SUV Destined for SA
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.
The post An All-New Bakkie-Based SUV Set For SA appeared first on Group1 JAC.
The JAC T9 Hunter: A Bold New Contender In SA’s Bakkie Market
Posted by Group1 JAC on 21 Aug 2024
JAC T9 Double Cab Bakkie
JAC Motors is turning heads with its flagship offering – the T9 double cab range. After a series of delays, the JAC T9 Hunter finally arrived in South Africa with more than a simple point to prove.
We take a look at the Hunter’s style, substance and reasons that this JAC is silencing the critics.
A “Game-Changer”
The JAC T9 Hunter, which made its world premiere at the 2023 Shanghai International Auto Show, arrived in local showrooms late last year as the premier model in JAC’s T-Series lineup.
This bakkie is positioned above the older T8 and workhorse T6 and X200 ranges, signalling JAC’s ambition to compete with well-known brands in the market.
Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors SA, calls the T9 a “game-changer” for the brand. It’s designed to take on established competitors such as the Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara, Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Volkswagen Amarok, and Mitsubishi Triton in terms of technology and comfort. The T9 also competes against other Chinese offerings like the GWM P-Series and LDV T60, which similarly offer high specification levels at competitive prices.
The T9 Has Impressive Capabilities
The T9 range comprises four models, including 4×4 and 4×2 derivatives, all powered by a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers 125kW and 410Nm, providing great performance and good driveability with minimal lag.
In terms of off-road capabilities, the T9 Hunter has a 210mm ground clearance and 800mm wading depth, which is impressive. The 4×4 models feature a part-time four-wheel-drive system with low range and a rear diff-lock for enhanced off-road performance.
Premium Interior And Advanced Features
Inside, the T9 offers a premium feel with a spacious cabin that comfortably accommodates adults.
The top-of-the-range 2.0CTi Double Cab 4×4 Super Lux comes loaded with features typically found in more expensive rivals. These include a 360-degree parking camera, sunroof, leather upholstery, heated and electrically adjustable front seats, a 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, and dual-zone climate control.
Safety features are comprehensive, with six airbags, stability control, hill-hold assist, ABS brakes, and tyre pressure monitoring standards on both Lux and Super Lux models.
JAC’s Growing Presence In South Africa
With the T9 Hunter, JAC is not only aiming to boost its sales but also to change perceptions about Chinese vehicles in the South African market. The brand’s growth to over 70 JAC dealerships in Southern Africa and its goal to sell 3,000 JAC bakkies and trucks in South Africa this year underscores its commitment to the market.
Ready to experience the JAC T9 Hunter for yourself? Book a test drive today and discover why this newcomer is turning heads in the bakkie world. Visit your nearest Group1 JAC dealership and get behind the wheel of the game-changing T9 Hunter.
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