2023 JAC T9 ute launch details firm

Local JAC Motors executives have revealed key details surrounding the delayed launch of the all-new 2023 JAC T9 ute, including a dedicated Australian testing program.

Initially intended to launch in the middle of this year, the latest Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger fighter from China will instead arrive in the closing stages of the year after it’s been subjected to a rigorous local engineering validation program.

According to managing director of official JAC importer BLK Auto, Jason Pecotic, the testing will be carried out by an Australian-based third party to ensure the JAC T9 is properly set up for our road conditions.

“We have specific test plan in Australia, and will co-operate with professional local company, but all development work will be completed in China,” he told carsales.

“Several units for testing will be delivered to Australia in July and August … the ADR homologation can be complete in October.”

Pecotic also revealed the initial shipment of T9 utes would probably be limited to less than 20 units – likely for internal purposes such as technician training, marketing and media evaluation – with a larger batch of more than 200 units to follow.

carsales published an exclusive first drive of the JAC T9 ute from China earlier this week.

As we’ve reported, the local JAC T9 range will comprise the entry-level Advance 4x4 and better-equipped Luxury 4x4, both powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel.

The engine produces 125kW of power and 410Nm of torque, and will be paired exclusively to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The T9’s output makes it competitive with the GWM Ute (120kW/400Nm 2.0-litre) and the SsangYong Musso (133kW/400Nm 2.0-litre) – two models, along with the LDV T60 (160kW/500Nm 2.0-litre), that JAC Auto is confident the new T9 will be “better than”.

A battery-electric version of the T9 will join the ranks during 2024, however there are no plans to offer the turbo-petrol version detailed for the South African market. A larger 2.5-litre diesel is due in 2025.

When asked if 4x2 variants would be made available, Pecotic said 4x4 was the primary focus for now and that the entry-level 2WD driveline “can be considered later”.

A 3500kg maximum braked towing capacity is expected to be ratified for the Australia market, and Pecotic was confident the JAC T9 would also achieve a maximum five-star ANCAP rating, thanks in part to a high level of advanced driver assist safety systems fitted standard.

To provide Australian buyers with further peace of mind, he said a minimum seven-year factory warranty would also be included.

“The warranty of T9 diesel pick-up will not less than seven years,” he said.

Pricing and full specifications for the T9 range will be announced closer to launch, however carsales understands JAC is targeting the GWM Ute as its closest rival in terms of market positioning.

So expect the JAC T9 Advance 4x4 to start from about $39,000 drive-away.

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