New Models / 9 October 2025 / Michael Taylor

New Chinese bakkie launched in South Africa – Pricing and features

JAC has introduced a new model to the T9 bakkie series in South Africa.

Earlier this year, the Chinese automaker announced that it would launch a limited-edition double cab to celebrate its recent achievements.

More specifically, JAC set a new endurance record in May when it drove a T9 around the Gerotek Testing facility for 24 hours straight, racking up an impressive 4,048km at an average speed of 170km/h.

The company later announced that it would produce 24 limited-edition models to mark the occasion, all of which instantly sold out.

In response, JAC has now decided to launch a new top-end model for the T9 called the Hunter, which will allow more people to enjoy the vehicle with a number of bespoke improvements.

The Hunter is available in both rear-wheel and four-wheel-drive configurations, and prices start at R629,900.

Performance

Every model in the T9 series is equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, but the Hunter units have been uprated to deliver 15% greater performance than their peers.

The Hunter generates a total of 144kW and 487kW, in contrast to the standard units’ 125kW and 444Nm.

It’s also important to point out that the standard T9 recently had its torque increased from 410Nm to 444Nm.

Gear changes are handled by an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, which sends power down to either the rear or all four wheels.

Regardless of the version you choose, the double cab will achieve an average fuel consumption of 7.8l/100km.

It can also tow up to 3,500kg, and haul 1,000kg in the load bay.

Furthermore, the bakkie has a ground clearance of 210mm, an approach angle of 27 degrees, and a departure angle of 23 degrees.

The 4×4 units have a rear diff lock, too.

Features

In addition to its increased performance, the Hunter benefits from a number of exclusive details and accessories meant to help it stand out on the road.

This includes an Artav nudge and style bar, a tonneau cover, branded headrests, and heavy-duty carpets.

It also has LED daytime running lights, fog lamps, LED taillights, roof rails, a sunroof, and a set of two-tone 18-inch alloy rims.

Buyers can choose one of seven colours, namely Star Grey, Metallic Grey, Silver, White, Black, Red, and Blue.

Other standard features include keyless entry, a leather multifunction steering wheel, leather upholstery, automatic climate control with rear vents, electronically adjustable heated front seats, a wireless charger, USB ports, 220V and 12V sockets, a 7-inch instrument cluster, and a 10.4-inch portrait infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Additionally, the JAC has traction control, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring, hill descent control, front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and seven airbags.