After a year of making waves in the domestic market, local demand remains elevated for the increasingly-popular JAC bakkies, specifically its range-topping, eye-popping, head-turning T9 SuperLux. 

Based on JAC’s third-generation international light commercial vehicle (LCV) platform, the reliable and top-performing T9 still turns heads with its attractive aesthetics, and continues to win hearts with dependable power. 

Asked what it is about the T9 that makes it such a showstopper, JAC Motors sales executive Willon du Plessis answered: “The T9 bakkie is more stylish and offers more features. It is something new. The T9 offers something new and something different compared to competitors in the same class. You get more value for what you’re paying for”. 

First impressions of the T9 usually involve the aggressive grille and an antagonistic stance, ready to traverse any obstacle and tackle any adventure. 

On the road or in the parking lot, the T9 takes centre-stage with its LED headlights, wide black wheel arches, side steps, and features such as a roll bar and fancy new alloys.

There is no doubt this bakkie, with an unmistakably commanding road presence, is the apex of innovation by JAC Motors. 

At first glance, it is evident this stylishly-designed T9 is not just a bakkie. It is a lifestyle experience. 

The T9 offers a super-responsive turbo-diesel engine, paired with a smooth and reliable seamless ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox. 

The T9’s exceptional performance, impressive fuel economy, spacious and luxurious interior cater to active lifestyles and family adventures.

Compared to its predecessor, the T9 has improved leaps and bounds, and is a significant step up in both luxury and hardware. 

The muscular and imposing front end is accentuated by a prominent vertical chrome bar grille that enhances a commanding and somewhat intimidating road presence. 

The integrated LED Daytime Running Lights, LED headlights and Fog Lamps blend seamlessly into the front bumper for an ultra-modern look that distinguishes the T9 from its competitors. 

The T9’s new 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine offers up to 125kW (which can be upgraded to 150kW) and 410Nm, complimented by the eight-speed automatic gearbox, which in the 4×4 model was supported by a low-range gearing and a limited-slip diff. 

Most impressive was the refinement of the T9’s powertrain, and the way the ZF transmission kept the engine ready to deliver a more-than-acceptable level of performance. 

Inside, T9’s cabin is fitted with sports seats, a super-impressive 26.4cm touchscreen infotainment system, and a digital instrument cluster. 

Exceptional quality surrounds the seats and door as well as dashboard areas. 

The JAC T9 prioritises safety, with a comprehensive suite of standard features and airbags. 

In addition, a 360-degree camera system makes manoeuvring easy in tight spaces with a complete view of your surroundings. 

Meanwhile, JAC Motors last year set a record in Chinese bakkie exports in September, shipping 7 054 units to over 130 markets. 

Sales data for the first three quarters of 2024 showed that JAC Motors exported 47 600 units globally, marking a 13.7% year-on-year increase. 

The company now ranks first among domestic automobile brands, representing over 20% of all bakkie exports from China.

After 15 years of development, JAC Motors now boasts an annual production capacity of 100 000 bakkies, enabling the company to sharpen its focus on the rapidly-growing global bakkie market, driving further sales growth.

Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors South Africa, emphasised the exceptional quality of JAC products. 

“Since launching our new T9, customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with everyone loving our luxurious lifestyle bakkie,” he said.

Moreover, JAC Motors is expanding its dealer network through the region to support its sales growth.

 “Our dealer network spans over 70 locations across Southern Africa, including Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Eswatini, Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. This extensive coverage ensures we uphold global brand standards and deliver a consistently positive customer experience throughout the region,» said Göbel.

Excellent build quality, coupled with a powerful and reliable engine is sure to spell trouble for JAC’s competitors. 

In an extremely competitive market segment, many of whom offer similar products, JAC is demanding a larger slice of the cake due to its affordability and constant evolution. The fact that global powerhouse, Volkswagen, took up a 50% share in JAC in 2020 indicates that established manufacturers are acknowledging JAC’s progress.