JAC launched a more affordable variant of its T8 in April, in the process bringing down the barrier to entry for the double cab by R65,000.
Previously, the bakkie was only available in a singular “Super Lux” trim that sold from a minimum of R464,900.
However, with the introduction of the new “Lux” – a slightly de-specced version of the Super Lux – the JAC can now be purchased for R399,900.
Let’s see what you’ll be missing out on by going for the new entry-level T8.
A tough choice
Across the T8 range, standard fitments comprise a leather multifunction steering wheel, leather seats, a trip computer, a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers, 12V and USB sockets, manual airconditioning, all-round electric windows, cruise control, a reverse camera, a tyre-pressure monitor, hill-start control, ABS with hydraulic brake assist, a brake override system, traction control, and two front airbags.
All four models also wear a chrome-plated honeycomb grille flanked by Xenon headlamps with built-in LED daytime running lights, “Double C” LED taillamps, front and rear fog lamps, running boards, a style bar in the load box, black wheel arches, an 18-inch alloy wheels.
For the 4×4 entries, a black off-road style bar, rear step bumper, and side steps are included.
A selection of additional niceties therefore contributes to the higher price of the Super Lux, including a powered sunroof, an electric driver’s seat, one-click electric windows, a centre rear armrest, Isofix child-seat mounts, and heated side mirrors.
Whether these are worth the extra R65,000 or not depends entirely on you.
Propelling all versions of the T8 is a turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel engine combined with a six-speed manual transmission.
Power output for this configuration is rated at 104kW and 320Nm, and it returns an average fuel consumption of 7.8l/100km.
Both the Lux and Super Lux are available in 4×2 and 4×4, the latter of which features a rear diff-lock and time-sharing four-wheel-drive system that can be switched between 2H and 4H at speeds of up to 80km/h through a toggle inside the cabin.
A low-speed 4L setting with a torque amplification mode is also available for greater off-road ability.
Regardless of which one you go for, the T8 family supports a maximum payload capacity of 900kg and a towing capacity of 2,000kg.
For owners planning to take it off-roading, it’s vital to know that the bakkie has an approach angle of 30.9 degrees, break-over angle of 23.5 degrees, and departure angle of 23.3 degrees; with ground clearance measuring 210mm.
Price
The South African pricing and expanded model line-up of the JAC T8 are as follows:
- JAC T8 2.0CTI 4×2 Lux – R399,900
- JAC T8 2.0CTI 4×4 Lux – R449,900
- JAC T8 2.0CTI 4×2 Super Lux – R464,900
- JAC T8 2.0CTI 4×4 Super Lux – R514,900
Each purchase is completed with a 5-year/100,000km warranty and a 5-year/100,000km service plan.
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