JAC T8 upgraded with more power

With its aggressively styled T9 confirmed for next year, Chinese automaker, JAC Motors, has introduced a second engine option for its current range-topping T8 bakkie.

Only powered by a 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine of Volkswagen origin since its debut two years ago, the T8 now comes with the option of a 2.0-litre oil-burner called CTI that uses, amongst others, an electrical variable geometry turbocharger to produce 104kW/320Nm.

An uptake of four kilowatts on the 1.9 with torque remaining unchanged, the amount of twist is delivered to the rear or all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox with no automatic option.

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Combined fuel consumption is from 8.7 L/100 km with approach and departure angles of 29.6 degrees and 22.4 degrees respectively, while the claimed breakover angle stands at 23.5 degrees. Regardless of drive wheels, the T8 has a ground clearance of 220 mm.

Outfitted with a double wishbone and coil spring suspension design, the T8 measures 5 325 mm in overall length with its wheelbase coming to 3 090 mm, height to 1 830 mm and width to 1 880 mm. JAC claims a payload of 900 kg and braked trailer towing capacity of 2 000 kg.

Like the 1.9, the T8 2.0 CTI only has one trim level, the Lux, with the only other choice being two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive.

Bar this, plus an electronic diff-lock on the latter, standard specification doesn’t differ with features on offer comprising:

• LED headlights;
• 18-inch alloy wheels;
• side steps;
• nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto;
• cruise control;
• multi-function steering;
• dual front airbags;
• ABS with EBD and ESC;
• tyre pressure monitor;
• reverse camera plus rear parking sensors;
• all around electric windows;
• keyless entry;
• Hill Hold Assist;
• electric mirrors;
• leather interior;
• traction control;
• Vehicle Dynamics Control;
• auto lock/unlock doors;
• instrument cluster display

Price

Available in a choice of five colours; white, silver, black, red and blue, the T8 2.0 CTI is covered by a five year/100 000 km warranty as well as a five year/60 000 km service plan.

• T8 1.9 TDI Lux – R402 400
• T8 1.9 TDI Lux 4×4 – R452 400
• T8 2.0 CTI Lux – R412 400
• T8 2.0 CTI Lux 4×4 – R462 400

Our impression of the T8 can be read here.