New JAC T9 vs Mahindra Pik Up Karoo – R600,000 bakkie showdown
JAC has officially launched the T9 bakkie in South Africa – the new flagship of its local range.
Prices for the double cab start at R529,900 for the base Lux 4×2 and go up to R649,900 for the range-topping Super Lux 4×4.
For this price, buyers can also obtain the Mahindra Pik Up Karoo Storm, one of the three South African-exclusive units it sells in its popular 4×4 series, which starts at R639,999.
With a difference of just under R10,000 separating these two vehicles, you’ll need a deep-dive analysis to see how their strengths and weaknesses compare.
Performance
While the T9 is expected to receive a wide range of powertrains in 2024, including petrol, plug-in hybrid, and battery-electric units, the launch models are equipped with a 2.0-litre, turbocharged diesel engine and an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
In comparison, all three of the top-end Karoo models are fitted with a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel and a six-speed auto shifter.
You can see how each 4×4’s engine compares in the table below:
| Specification | JAC T9 Super Lux | Mahindra Pik Up Karoo Storm |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbo-diesel | 2.2-litre turbo-diesel |
| Power | 125kW | 103kW |
| Torque | 410Nm | 320Nm |
| Fuel consumption | 7.8l/100km | 9.8l/100km |
Despite its lower displacement, the JAC actually boasts a higher power and torque figure, as well as better fuel consumption – the latter of which is likely due in part to its wider range of gears.
Of course, the utility of a bakkie is just as important as its performance, and you can check how JAC and Mahindra’s products compare in the following table:
| Specification | JAC T9 Super Lux | Mahindra Pik Up Karoo Storm |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5,330mm | 5,175mm |
| Width | 1,965mm | 1,820mm |
| Height | 1,920mm | 1,942mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,110mm | 3,040mm |
| Ground clearance | 210mm | 210mm |
| Wading depth | 700mm | 700mm |
| Approach angle | 27.0 degrees | 34.0 degrees |
| Break-over angle | 23.5 degrees | 18.0 degrees |
| Departure angle | 23.0 degrees | 15.0 degrees |
| Load capacity | 1,000kg | 995kg |
| Towing capacity | 3,500kg | 2,500kg |
The Chinese double cab is bigger than its Indian rival in every regard with a slightly longer wheelbase to boot. However, they have the exact same ground clearance and wading depth.
The Super Lux’s angles are generally better than the Karoo’s, and they have nearly identical load capacities.
The biggest difference in the above stats is arguably the towing capacity, as the T9 can drag 3,500kg while the Pik Up can only manage 2,500kg.
Features
Setting a baseline of what you can expect from either vehicle, standard equipment includes automatic headlights, alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, leather upholstery, a multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, hill assist, keyless entry and start, automatic climate control, USB ports, and an infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Items exclusive to the Mahindra, meanwhile, comprise 16-inch alloys, all-terrain tyres, a roller shutter, steel off-road bumpers, off-road suspension, two airbags, a 9.0-inch media screen, onboard navigation, and a rearview camera.
The JAC, in comparison, has xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, 18-inch alloy rims, six airbags, tyre-pressure monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, electronically-adjustable heated front seats, a 7.0-inch digital driver display, a wireless phone charger, a 10.4-inch central screen, and a sunroof.
Pricing
The new JAC T9 2.0CTi double cab 4WD Super Lux has a South African starting price of R649,900.
This includes a 5-year/150,000km warranty and a 5-year/100,000km service plan.
The Mahindra Pik Up 2.2CRDe double cab 4×4 S11 Karoo Storm has a local starting price of R639,999.
Each purchase comes with a 4-year/120,000km warranty, a 5-year/90,000km service plan, and a 4-year/120,000km roadside assistance plan.
JAC T9 Super Lux
Mahindra Pik Up Karoo Storm
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