News / 24 April 2024 / Albert du Toit

More affordable JAC T8 double cab launched in South Africa – Pricing and features

JAC has launched a more affordable variant of its T8 double cab in South Africa from a starting price of R399,900.

Available in both 4×2 and 4×4 flavours, the new “Lux” specification lowers the barrier to entry for the T8 range by a significant R65,000.

“This expansion addresses intensified competition in the double-cab bakkie market, with new brands entering the local market facing significant competition from established competitors,” said Karl-Heinz Göbel, Chief Executive Officer of JAC Motors South Africa.

Standard features

The new T8 Lux brings a generous assortment of features despite its lower positioning.

Standard fitments on the double cab comprise leather seats, a multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, manual airconditioning, all-round electric windows, a reverse camera, rear park distance sensors, and central locking with remote keyless entry.

Additionally, front and centre sits a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that offers Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with USB and 12V power sockets placed within a closable compartment in the centre console.

The entire T8 family looks identical from the outside, sporting 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, and black wheel arches surrounding two-tone alloy wheels measuring 18 inches in diameter.

For the 4×4 derivatives, a black off-road style bar, rear step bumper, and side steps lend a distinctive look.

Powertrain

Powering all four versions of the JAC is a 2.0-litre, turbo-diesel motor generating 104kW and 320Nm, partnering with a six-speed manual transmission.

Average fuel consumption works out to 7.8l/100km with a maximum payload capacity of 900kg and a towing capacity of 2,000kg on the cards.

The 4×4 entries feature a rear diff-lock as well as a 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.

Speaking of which, the T8 boasts 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.