JAC has updated its T8 range in South Africa, adding over R50,000 worth of additional features while keeping its warranty, service plan, and even its price tag the same as the outgoing version.
The high-rider is available in rear-wheel and four-wheel-drive specifications with prices starting at R449,900 and R499,900 respectively, making it one of the most affordable double cabs in the country.
With bakkies being as popular as they are, it’s worth taking the time to see exactly what JAC’s latest into the space offers, especially given its value-for-money proposition.
What you get
The Chinese T8 relies on a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel powerplant, which produces 104kW and 320Nm, with this setup exclusively paired to a six-speed manual gearbox that links to either the rear wheels or all four wheels, depending on the version you go for.
Regardless of the layout chosen, the double cab’s fuel consumption comes to an average of 7.8l/100km, and it will also be able to tow up to 2,000kg. The load bed measures 1,520mm in length, 1,520mm in width, and 470mm in height, which combined with its powertrain, means it can support a payload of up to 900kg.
The bakkie also has a ground clearance of 220mm, an approach angle of 29.6 degrees, a break-over angle of 23.5 degrees, and a departure angle of 22.4 degrees.
Additionally, it’s important to note that if you do get the 4×4 version, you can expect a time-sharing four-wheel-drive platform with a rear differential lock that can switch between 2H and 4H modes on the fly at speeds of up to 80km/h.
On the features side of the equation, the update has given the JAC a new front end with xenon headlights, daytime running lights, and fog lights, and it’s also received a set of black wheel arches complemented by redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels.
Furthermore, the 4×4 version gives the exterior a customized black off-road style bar, rear step bumper, and side steps.
Looking inside, standard equipment now consists of a multifunction steering wheel, manual aircon, electric windows, leather seats, an electric driver seat, USB and 12V power sockets, a sunroof, and a 9-inch central touchscreen Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Assistance items then come in the form of cruise control, hill assist, a tyre-pressure monitoring system, ABS, rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera.
Each purchase includes a 5-year/150,000km warranty and roadside assistance plan, and a 5-year/60,000km service plan.
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