JAC T9

If you think the JAC T9’s outside appearance is very brash and aggressive, then you’d be surprised to know that its interior is a whole different story. Inside, the JAC T9 features a minimalist, high-tech cabin that provides top-notch comfort and ergonomics for all occupants. It has a predominantly black leather-accented interior. Its leather seats provide supportive cushioning for both first and second row passengers. It also offers generous amounts of space all around. With this in mind, it wouldn’t be a surprise if you'd prefer to sit in the truck’s second row. 

Aside from this, it has a smart cockpit that provides drivers with a 7-inch color instrument screen with a dimmer switch along with a multifunctional leather steering wheel that is good-to-the-touch. Meanwhile, all passengers can enjoy a 10.4-inch floating central infotainment touch screen that has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth Handsfree Phone system. Its infotainment is linked to a 6-speaker sound system, which provides good acoustics around the vehicle. Unlike other tech-heavy modern vehicles, there are still a handful of physical switches on the T9’s dashboard. 

The T9 has multiple cubbys, armrests, and handrails. And, to increase this truck’s functionality and practicality, it also comes with a wireless charger, two front USB ports, a rear USB port, a front 12V power outlet, and a rear 220V outlet.

The JAC T9 has that macho look that is definitely a head-turner on the road. At the front, it has a very aggressive-looking facade, which is enhanced by a huge black grille and the loud “J-A-C” lettering in the middle. It features sleek LED headlamps with LED DRLs along with fog lamps. Its headlamps have leveling, automatic lightening, and follow me home functions. It has a rugged side view, which is emphasized by black exaggerated fenders as well as 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels with black rims. Its sporty silhouette is complemented by chrome door mirrors and handles. For easier ingress and egress, this truck comes with stepboards on both sides.

Trailing behind this vehicle, its black iron roll bar will definitely catch your attention. Its hindlook also has that sporty, aggressive feel. It has LED rear combination lamps, fog lamps, and a high mounted stoplight for top-notch visibility both in the morning and at night. It comes with a standard cargo with a protective bedliner, which offers a generous amount of space for your baggage and hardware. For more convenience, JAC gave this truck four tub cargo tie-down hooks and four outer cargo rope hooks.

The JAC T9 measures 5,330 mm in length, 1,965 mm in width, and 1,920 mm in height. It has a 3,110 mm wheelbase, an impressive 210 mm minimum ground clearance, and a 1200 mm wading depth, allowing it to effectively pass through bumpy and rough terrain. The payload capacity is measured at 1,000 kg.

The JAC T9 utilizes a suspension combination of a Double Wishbone independent suspension with coil spring at the front and a non-independent Multi-link Leaf Spring Rigid Axle suspension at the rear. Thanks to this suspension setup, the T9 is able to offer a great balance of road dynamics and comfort. It can effectively absorb bumps and other road imperfections, while maintaining a stable ride for all passengers. One downside of its suspension setup, however, is that its steering has a tendency to lack feedback and to become too light when hitting turns or corners at high speeds. But, overall, you’ll be able to enjoy a planted and relaxed riding experience inside the T9.

The JAC T9 is powered by a 2L CTI diesel engine that produces a maximum power output of 168 hp and a maximum torque of 410 Nm. It comes mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission system and a 4x2 drivetrain.

The JAC T9 can run effortlessly both in the city and on free-flowing highways. Its automatic transmission system is smooth and responsive, enhancing the driver’s experience on the wheel. Its fuel economy is also pretty decent. Consequently, you’ll be able to use this truck as a daily cruiser inside the city without any problem. It might not be the strongest in its segment, but it has enough reserved power and torque to deliver a proper pull while cruising at high speeds.

In terms of safety, it has a long list of safety and security features that most pickup trucks have as a standard. It is equipped with 6 airbags, multiple seatbelts, driver and front passenger seatbelt warning sound, power and automatic door locks, remote central locking, ISOFIX child safety seat anchors, child safety lock, rear parking sensors, reversing camera, and cruise control. One of the main weak points of the JAC T9 is that it lacks advanced driver assistance systems.

To compensate for this lack of ADAS, its braking setup is supported by a handful of modern safety features such as an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability program, hill-start hold control, hydraulic brake assist, brake override system, traction control system, and vehicle dynamics control. It utilizes discs for both front and rear braking.

In my opinion, the only thing that is holding the JAC T9 4x2 back from becoming more competitive within its segment is its lack of ADAS. But, considering everything else, the T9 should be a part of your midsize pickup truck shortlist if you prioritize comfort and space over anything else.