Another Chinese car brand is entering Australia, and its first model will be a ute. Introducing the JAC T9, which has just debuted on local soil.
Sounding like the name of a forklift or skid-steer, the new T9 is based on JAC’s third-generation platform. It’s a heavy-duty ute, featuring a live axle rear end with leaf springs, switchable four-wheel drive, and a diesel engine.
Two variants are going on sale in Australia, called the Oasis and the Haven. Both feature a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine that produces a comparatively weak 125kW and 410Nm. This is matched up to a ZF-based eight-speed automatic.
The drive system incorporates low-range and a rear differential lock, and drivers can play around with eco, normal, sport, and snow driving modes. Ground clearance is rated at 210mm, which isn’t that impressive for this class, but the water wading depth is 800mm.
Towing? Yep, JAC has made sure the new T9 meets the segment benchmark of 3500kg (braked). However, with a gross combination mass of 5930kg and a kerb weight of 2055kg, that leaves only 375kg for passengers, cargo and the tow ball itself.
Both variants ride on 18-inch alloy wheels, albeit with slightly different spoke patterns, wearing 265/60 highway terrain tyres made by Chao Yang (we’ve never heard of them either).
Inside, passengers are treated to a 10.4-inch touch-screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and the driver views a 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster. Wireless phone charging, rear climate vents, leather-accented trim, climate control, and power driver’s seat come standard. Unfortunately, the steering column is only adjustable up and down, not reach.
The T9 promises top safety as well, with a goal for a 5-star ANCAP rating. It comes with seven airbags – including centre – as well as a rear-view camera, lane-keep assist, driver monitoring camera, blind-spot detection, and exit warning.
Priced at the budget end of the segment, the new model will surely attract plenty of buyers. Prices start from the following (excluding on-road costs):
2024 JAC T8 Oasis: $42,662
2024 JAC T8 Haven: $45,630
