By Xolile Hopa

JAC Motors South Africa has widened its T9 range with two blacked-out derivatives, the T9 2.0L CTi 4×4 Black Edition and the T9 2.0L CTi 4×4 Hunter Black Edition.

Both are based on the T9 Super Lux 4×4. The standard Black Edition swaps bright trim for black on the grille, roof rails, mirrors, door handles and 18-inch alloys. The Hunter goes further, with Hunter decals on the flanks and tailgate, plus a nudge bar, style bar, tonneau cover and tow bar as standard. Inside, both get a black leather-enhanced cabin, and the Hunter adds branded headrests and heavy-duty floor carpets.

The engine is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel. In the Black Edition it makes 125 kW and 444 Nm; the Hunter is tuned to 144 kW and 487 Nm. Both send power through a ZF eight-speed automatic.

Drivers can choose from Sport, Normal, Eco and Snow modes. Four-wheel drive is selected via a dial on the centre console at speeds of up to 80 km/h and the bakkie also has low-range gearing and a rear electronic differential lock. JAC claims a combined fuel consumption of 7.8 L/100 km, and the T9 can tow a braked load of 3,500 kg.

Pricing

• T9 2.0L CTi 4×2 Lux – R549,900
• T9 2.0L CTi 4×4 Lux – R609,900
• T9 2.0L CTi 4×2 Super Lux – R599,900
• T9 2.0L CTi 4×2 Hunter – R629,900
• T9 2.0L CTi 4×4 Black Edition – R629,900
• T9 2.0L CTi 4×4 Hunter Black Edition – R689,900

All T9 models carry a five-year/200,000 km warranty, a seven-year/100,000 km service plan and five years/200,000 km of roadside assistance.

JAC has also confirmed that the plug-in hybrid T9 will arrive locally in the fourth quarter of 2026. It teams a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with electric motors on the front and rear axles, for a claimed 360 kW and 674 Nm. Its 31.2 kWh battery is said to be good for an electric-only range of up to 100 km.

The T9 is offered in eight exterior colours, with a selection of accessories available across the range.