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Chinese bakkies are big business in South Africa, enhancing with every new generation while typically remaining affordable, bang-for-your-buck alternatives to the long-standing brigade of bakkies that consists of the Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Nissan Navara, Volkswagen Amarok, and its top-selling rival, the Toyota Hilux, amongst other products.
With its competitive pricing and robust equipment list, the JAC T9, the latest addition to the bakkie lineup, is poised to pose a challenge to established models. The brand, with a history dating back to 1964, has shown a commitment to innovation in the automotive fold, particularly with its venture into electric vehicles in collaboration with Volkswagen in 2018. JAC's T9 4x2 Super Lux, in particular, stands out with its striking design and generous specifications, including a bold chrome grille, split LED headlights encased in plastic cladding, prominent JAC emblems, stylish two-tone 18-inch alloys, and a tilt/slide sunroof, signalling a new generation of value-driven yet trendy utilitarian bakkies.
Sure. The T9 is a handsome beaut, but it's the interior that comes under scrutiny. While the cabin features some impressive elements, some aspects hint at cost-cutting measures, such as the use of less-than-expensive materials in certain areas, which is noticeable upon closer inspection. This contradicts the vehicle's otherwise premium feel. Despite this, the vehicle impresses with its structural integrity; the absence of any rattles or noises during operation indicates a solid build. This level of assembly precision is commendable and suggests that with a few improvements in material quality and finish, it could redefine standards in its class.
Speaking of interior features, you get an intuitive 10.4-inch portrait-style infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, which is an on-trend feature often found at a higher price point. In the case of our tester, it also came fitted with heated front seats, electrically adjustable front seats, a wireless charging pad, a 7-inch multi-information cluster, two USB ports at the front, and a single one at the back. While the steering wheel's reach-only adjustment may be a point of irritation for some, it is a minor shortcoming in an otherwise well-appointed and spacious interior.
The JAC T9's 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox, delivers solid performance that aligns with its competitors, like the Ford Ranger's 2.0-litre SiT engine. Although not the most powerful in its class, the JAC T9's engine offers a commendable 125kW and 410Nm, ensuring robust pulling power throughout the rev range, which is particularly beneficial for long hauls or when carrying heavy loads. The ZF 8-speed transmission's smooth shifting contributes to a pleasant driving experience, although some jerkiness has been observed during stop-and-go scenarios, especially when the auto-hold brake function is activated.
Like most bakkies of this world, the T9 is based on a ladder-frame chassis with a double-wishbone independent suspension with coil springs. While the setup contributes to the vehicle's robustness, it also results in a firmer ride, as noted by the slight jitteriness over small bumps. In its defence, it’s a trade-off for a vehicle capable of carrying significant payloads, such as its 1,000kg capacity. Despite not being a dedicated 4x4, the T9 could handle light off-road conditions, thus making it a usable choice for those requiring a vehicle that can perform well in diverse driving scenarios.
The load bin's dimensions are generous, providing ample space for various goods, which is critical for users who require a reliable workhorse for transportation. Additionally, a protective bed liner at the rear has a non-slip surface for a more practical touch.
The JAC T9 emerges as a competitive option in the bakkie market, particularly when considering its price point of R579,900. This positions it as a more accessible choice in a segment where prices can soar near the million-rand threshold. Notably, its fuel economy is impressive; averaging 7.1l/100km and a near 1,000-kilometre range positions it as one of the most economical bakkies we’ve tested and underscores its practicality for long-distance travel.
In a nutshell, the JAC T9's overall assessment falls short of that of the Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Toyota Hilux, and Volkswagen Amarok—all established bakkie contenders. However, it remains a serious competitor in the segment, and while long-term reliability still comes with a question mark, our drive suggests that it checks many boxes and boasts a level of capability that could significantly impact the market in the months ahead.
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