When consumers get attached to a certain brand, they generally tend to stick to it through thick and thin. To get these consumers to shift to a new brand takes something very special.  

This is where JAC Motors comes with that “something special” in the form of its most advanced bakkie yet, the new T9. It is built on JAC’s third-generation international light commercial vehicle (LCV) platform. After decades as a truck manufacturer, JAC Motors only entered the LCV and passenger markets in 2007 but has since started to turn heads and is winning over the hearts. 

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.  Last weekend, Woema was given a unique opportunity to drive the T9 for a few days, courtesy of JAC Motors Namibia. Here is how we experienced it: 

First Impressions

That grille and that aggressive stance are probably the first aspects noticed on the new T9. On the road or in the parking lot this bakkie literally takes centre stage with its slim headlights, wide black wheel arches, side steps, roll bar and fancy new alloys.

The JAC T9 test vehicle was a 2.0L diesel model. 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 isn’t just a bakkie, it’s a lifestyle experience. 

The T9 offers a super-responsive turbo-diesel engine paired with a 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, Xenon Headlamps, and Fog Lamps blend seamlessly into the front bumper for an ultra-modern look that distinguishes the T9 from its competitors. 

Ride Quality

The T9’s new 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine offers up to 125kW and 410Nm, complimented by an eight-speed automatic gearbox which in the 4x4 model was supported by expected hardware, such as low-range gearing and a diff lock. While the engine was a bit sluggish when starting off, this was immediately offset once the turbo started spooling and translated into decent acceleration. On the long road the T9 cruises quite comfortably and quietly at higher speeds. 

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. The manufacturer’s claimed consumption for the JAC is a promising 7.8L/100 km but this is obviously determined by individual driving styles. While Woema did not get to drive off-road to sample the T9’s 4×4 abilities, these seem to be on par with segment rivals. 

Interior

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 and dashboard areas. Did I mention this bakkie has a sunroof, which is another feature that sets it aside from the competition. 

Safety Features

The JAC T9 prioritises safety with a comprehensive suite of standard features and air bags. In addition, a 360 degrees camera system makes manoeuvring easy in tight spaces with a complete view of your surroundings. The JAC T9 currently retails for between N$550 000 and N$650 000. 

Fun fact – 360 degree view

Images from four or more cameras are stitched together to create a 360-degree image of the area surrounding the vehicle. An avatar of the vehicle is superimposed onto that image to indicate the position of the vehicle. As such, the 360-degree view system uses an array of images received from multiple cameras placed all around the car. These cameras are installed in strategic points on the car to give a wide view and cover blind spots. The vehicle’s software combines the images from the different cameras and removes the distortion caused by the wide lens, cuts out the overlapping bits and stitches the images together to provide you a crystal-clear view of the vehicle’s surroundings. Photo: Contributed