JAC’s new ute-based SUV will launch early next year
New challenger brand looks to take on Fortuner and MU-X with rugged ladder-frame SUVThe News
JAC Motors is set to expand its Australian lineup with a new ute-based SUV, expected to be badged the JS9, that will arrive as soon as early 2027.
The Key Details
- New JS9 SUV expected to share platform with T9 ute
- Will join T9 and upcoming Hunter PHEV in local lineup
- Luxury sub-brand De-Fine also under consideration for Australia
The Finer Details
The new model will share its underpinnings with the T9 dual-cab which marked the Chinese brand’s arrival into the Australian market.
Like the LDV D90 and its relation to the T60 ute, the JS9 is expected to transform a work-focused platform into a family-oriented SUV with genuine off-road capability, pitching it in one of Australia’s most lucrative segments, taking on established players like the Toyota Fortuner, Isuzu MU-X and Ford Everest.
Although specification details remain limited, the model is expected to launch in Russia this year with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.
JAC already offers several SUVs overseas, including the JS8 and JS8 Pro, though those are medium SUVs that haven’t been confirmed for local sale.
The JS9 is expected to become the brand’s first SUV offering locally, likely carrying over much of the T9’s 4x4 hardware and towing-focused engineering.
The upcoming SUV was unveiled at international motor shows as part of JAC’s broader push into export markets, with its arrival signalling the brand’s intent to establish itself beyond commercial vehicles and create a more rounded local lineup.
JAC has also not ruled out introducing its premium-focused De-Fine sub-brand to Australia, although details are limited at this stage. The marque recently previewed a range of high-end electrified concepts globally, including a performance-focused supercar and a luxury SUV.
If introduced locally, De-Fine could position JAC against emerging Chinese premium players like Denza and Zeekr, who are quickly gaining market share.
The Road Ahead
The success of the upcoming Hunter PHEV is likely to play a major role in laying the groundwork for JAC’s broader Australian expansion plans.
It follows a challenging start for the T9 ute which has struggled to gain meaningful sales momentum.
The large SUV market, however, represents another big opportunity, with more than 40,000 examples priced under $80,000 sold in Australia so far this year alone.
*Lead image generated by AI
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