A new bakkie is coming to South Africa in 2023

JAC Motors South Africa has announced its plans to launch its new top-of-the-range T9 Hunter double-cab bakkie in 2023.

The new T9 Hunter range will launch with four models, including 4×4 and 4×2 derivatives, which will launch in South Africa in the second quarter of next year. The vehicle manufacturer also said it plans to introduce a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and battery-electric derivative at the end of 2023 and in early 2024, respectively.

The new T9 Hunter will be recognisable by its size, with a body measuring 5,330mm (L) x 1,965mm (W) x 1,920mm (H) and a wheelbase of 3,110mm.

“We are excited about the imminent arrival of the new T9 Hunter range. Bakkie buyers will love its large body design as local customer research highlights that a bakkie’s actual size is one of the most important buying motivators when it is purchased,” said JAC Motors South Africa CEO Karl-Heinz Göbel.

“South Africa is an important market in JAC Motors’ plans to increase its global right-hand drive market share. That is why we get the latest high-tech products like the T9 and the battery-electric N-Series trucks early in their product lifecycles,” added Göbel.

Performance

The T9 Hunter range will be powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that produces 125 kW and 410 Nm through a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels. The T9 4×4 derivatives feature a part-time 4×4 system with a low-range transfer case and a rear diff-lock. It offers a towing mass of 3 500 kg (braked).

Local specification levels still need to be confirmed, but the T9 range will only be available in an eight-speed automatic transmission to ensure a relaxing driving experience.

Features 

The T9’s active and passive safety feature list includes seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring, a surround-view parking camera and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

Other standard equipment includes a 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring, wireless phone charging, a 7-inch driver information screen, heated power-adjustable front seats, partial leather trim, a 220V power outlet and climate control with air ducks for passengers in the back of the cab.

Göbel added that the new T9 Hunter would be a welcome addition to the local T-Series, comprising the T8 and T6 product ranges, as it will offer additional variants at the top end for the dealers to sell.

Pricing and standard specification for the JAC T9 Hunter range will be announced closer to its launch next year.

Read: What to expect from car prices in South Africa over the next few months