#bakkies

JAC Motors South Africa has beefed up its T6 one-tonne range by adding a 2,8-litre TDI double-cab variant, consequently from customer input locally and from neighbouring countries.

The 2,8-litre four-cylinder common-rail inter-cooled turbo-charged diesel engine develops 68 kW at 3 600 r/min and 210 Nm torque between 1 800 r/min and 2 000 r/min. The powerplant connects to a five-speed manual transmission in the 4×2 and a six-speed manual transmission in the 4×4 derivative.

The T6 2.8L TDI offers a claimed fuel consumption of 7,9 l/100 km, and the 4×4 achieves 10,5 l/100 km on average.

“Over the past five years, customer feedback played an important role in our brand’s local growth. We believe the market’s need for a reliable and fuel-economical 2,8-litre turbo-diesel engine is one of those examples where we can respond with tried and tested products,” says Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors South Africa.

The new engine came as a response to requests from customers from neighbouring countries and remote parts of South Africa, with its core focus on affordability, reliability, and ease of maintenance.

The T6 2.8L TDI engine earned its workhorse credentials globally and ticked off all the boxes in terms of what the local market wants, including excellent retail price points of less than R350 000 for the 4×2 and R400 000 for the 4×4 derivative.

Fuel consumption of the engine under normal and extreme working conditions is one of its main selling points. Add to that its track record of reliability and easy and low-cost maintenance, and the car caters for big fleet owners and regular customers.

The JAC T6 has a ladder frame suspension and a double-wishbone independent front suspension with coil springs, while the 245/65 R17 tyre size of the T6 2.8L TDI improves loading performance and reduces understeer.

It has a turning radius of 6,2 metres with a ground clearance of 197 mm and a 900 kg payload, also supporting a maximum Towing Mass (Braked) of 2,000 kg.

The double-skinned load box measures 1 520 mm × 1 520 mm × 470 mm with an anti-scratch and corrosion-resistant truck bed liner.

“Our T6 bakkies are reliable all-rounders with excellent gravel-road ability, comfortable cabs, and big load boxes. The addition of the 2.8L TDI derivative, with its reliable and durable drivetrain and low maintenance cost, now offers potential customers a choice of an economical workhorse at a much lower purchase price than its double-cab competitors,” says Göbel.

Standard features include fog lamps, electrically adjustable mirrors with integrated indicator lights, running boards, alloy wheels and a style bar.

The T6 2.8L TDI features two crash bags, anti-lock braking and EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution). A high-mounted brake light, reverse camera, rear parking sensors and speed-sensing auto door locks are standard equipment for added safety and convenience.

Interior trimmings include power steering, a height-adjustable leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel, air-conditioning, leather seats and power windows.

The T6 2.8L TDI 4×4 features an electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system with an approach angle of 29,6 degrees, a break-over angle of 23,5 degrees and a departure angle of 22,4 degrees. 

The official retail prices of the T6 range include the company’s standard five-year/150 000 km manufacturer’s warranty and five-year/60 000 km service plan.

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Line-up now spans two models following the dropping of the entry-level 1.9-litre derivatives.

The comparatively smallest Chinese automaker in SA, JAC, has released a refreshed version of the T8 double cab bakkie.

What’s new with the T8?

Introduced four years ago, and prevailing as its flagship model for now, the adaptions centre around the exterior of the JAC T8.

Likely to be succeeded next year as range-topping product by the much delayed T9 Hunter that premiered at the Shanghai Auto Show in April, the T8’s reworked aesthetic comprises a new chrome grille, headlights resplendent with daytime running LEDs, a restyled front bumper and new 18-inch alloy wheels.

Reserved for the 4×4 is a black styling bar, side steps and a rear step integrated into the bumper. Seemingly, the T8’s rear has remained unchanged as no accompanying images showing it were disclosed.

New features

Bar the inclusion of a sunroof, the T8’s interior remains unaffected with the same applying to the standard specification sheet.

Now renamed Super Lux, the T8’s list of features comprises a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB, a six-speaker sound system, all-around electric windows, leather upholstery, front and rear armrests, an electric driver’s and Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto.

Additional features include:

leather-covered multi-function steering wheel;

tyre pressure monitor;

cruise control;

reverse camera;

rear parking sensors;

heated and electric mirrors;

ABS with EBD and Brake Assist;

keyless entry;

auto lock/unlock door;

traction control;

dual front airbags;

Electronic Stability Control;

Hill Start Assist

Measuring 5 325 mm long, 1 880 mm wide and 1 830 mm tall, the T8’s wheelbase stretches 3 090 mm and according to JAC, has a claimed payload of 900 kg, the towing capacity of 2 000 kg for a braked trailer and as standard, a rubberised load bin.

Under the hood

Equipped as standard with a rear diff-lock regardless of the drive wheels, motivation is now solely provided by the CTI-badged 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine following the decision to drop the Volkswagen-made 1.9-litre unit available until now.

Paired exclusively to a six-speed manual gearbox, the oil burner develops 104kW/320Nm and will consume diesel at a claimed 7.8 L/100 km.

Once again regardless of being two-wheel-drive or fitted with the optional Borg-Warner supplied four-wheel-drive system, the T8 has a ground clearance of 220 mm, departure angle of 22.4 degrees, breakover angle of 23.5 degrees and approach angle of 29.6 degrees.

Pricing

Available in a choice of six colours; silver, white, black, grey, red and blue, the T8 Super Lux carries a sticker price of R449 900 for the two-wheel-drive and R499 900 for the 4×4.

Covering both is a five-year/150 000 km warranty as well as a five-year/60 000 km service plan.

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Delayed from its initial market launch this year, Chinese automaker JAC has confirmed that its aggressively styled T9 Hunter double cab bakkie will become an official reality in South Africa during the second quarter of 2023.

Diesel only for now

The automaker’s flagship offering positioned above the T8 benefitted from a more powerful engine last year, the T9 will be rolled out in stages headed by the conventional turbodiesel derivative and, towards the end of the year, a plug-in hybrid.

A fully electric version is set to become available in late 2023, but for now, only the diesel is slated to come to South Africa in the form of a 2.0-litre unit delivering 125kW/410Nm. The drive will be delivered to the rear or all four wheels through a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic gearbox with no manual being mentioned.

Until now, it was reported that the T9 will have either a 110 kW version of the 2.0-litre or a bigger 2.5-litre oil burner rated at 140 kW. As it seemingly stands, neither of these will be made available.

Dimensions and spec

Based on JAC’s JL32 platform, the T9 Hunter, for South Africa, measures 5 330 mm in overall length with a wheelbase of 3 110 mm, height of 1 920 mm and width of 1 965 mm. Despite the claimed payload not being disclosed, JAC does mention a braked trailer tow rating of 3,500 kg.

Aside from South Africa, the T9 will also head to Australia with JAC confirming specification items as a 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated and electric front seats, a seven-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless smartphone charging, climate control with rear vents and partial leather seats.

Seemingly as a way of adhering to Australia’s strict ANCAP crash requirements, the T9’s safety and driver assistance system comprises Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, a surround-view camera system, Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitoring and a tyre pressure monitor.

Depending on the eventual trim level, up to 18-inch alloy wheels will be offered, along with a rear diff-lock and, in the case of four-wheel-drive models, a low-range transfer case.

How much longer?

“We are excited about the imminent arrival of the new T9 Hunter range. Bakkie buyers will love its large body design because local customer research highlights that a bakkie’s actual size is one of the most important buying motivators when it is purchased,” JAC Motors South Africa CEO, Karl-Heinz Göbel, said.

Expect more details, and pricing, to be revealed at a later stage as JAC Motors South Africa is still likely to provide more in the run-up to the T9’s debut later this year.

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Over time, bakkies have evolved into vehicles every bit as kitted and comfortable as passenger cars. The problem is, their price tags have also evolved.

Not that long ago the Mercedes-Benz X-Class became the first bakkie in South Africa to break the seven-digit ceiling.

The discontinued Merc was followed by the 190 kW Volkswagen Amarok V6 TDI and now the Ford Ranger Raptor is just R850 shy of becoming Mzansi’s third million-rand bakkie.

With the new Amarok and Ford Ranger on their way, the million-rand bracket will soon be the benchmark instead of the exception in the big stables’ top portfolios.

But not everyone has that kind of cash lying around or the kind of monthly income to afford instalments of over R20k.

Fortunately for buyers, there is quite a comprehensive list of alternatives in the top listings for the cheapest bakkies in stables outside Mzansi’s traditional top three heavyweights, Toyota, Ford and Isuzu.

For years now, Indian carmaker Mahindra and Chinese manufacturers GWM and JAC have been steadily building their much more affordable bakkie repertoires in the shadows of the big boys. And it is not surprising that these three carmakers dominate the list of South Africa’s most affordable double cab bakkies.

Related: Looking for an affordable new car? Check out JAC used cars.

R344 900 – JAC T6 2.0 double cab Lux

JAC Motors has been building commercial vehicles for almost six decades and have quietly been gaining market share with its attractive T-range bakkies. Not only are they easy on the eye, but so are their prices.

The most affordable bakkie in its local stable is the T6 petrol variant, which is powered by a 2.0-litre mill which is mated to a five-speed manual transmission and sends 108kW/190Nm to the rear wheels.

JAC’s fuel consumption claim of 10 L/ 100 km will result in a range of 760 km on its 76-litre fuel tank. This T6 has a payload of 820 kg.

Features include 17-inch alloy wheels, artificial leather seats, aircon, a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control and Bluetooth connectivity making this bakkie a real option for both leisure and work.

Safety is also sorted in the form of ABS, dual front airbags, park distance control and rear-view camera.

After-sales back-up is sorted by a five-year/150 000 km warranty and a five-year/60 000 km service plan.

R374 900 – JAC T6 1.9 TDi double cab Comfort

The most affordable oil burner in the JAC stable is powered by a 1.9-litre turbodiesel mill. It produces 100 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque which is sent to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.

This T6 is said to achieve a range of 950km based on the claimed fuel economy of 8.0 L/100 km. Up from its petrol sibling, the oil-burning T6 has a payload of 900 kg.

Being the Comfort trim line and not Lux, it lacks a few creature comforts like artificial leather seats, a rearview camera and cruise control.

It also comes standard with a five-year/150 000 km warranty and a five-year/60 000 km service plan.

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Buying a used bakkie for sale in South Africa can be an exciting yet significant financial decision. Bakkies are popular for their versatility, making them suitable for both personal and business use. To ensure a smooth buying process and a wise investment, consider the following steps:

1. Define Your Needs: Determine your specific requirements. Are you using the bakkie for personal use, work, or a combination of both? Consider factors such as load capacity, towing capabilities, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort.

2. Set a Budget: Establish a budget that includes not only the purchase price but also insurance, maintenance, and potential modifications. Stick to your budget to avoid overextending your finances.

3. Research Models: Research various bakkie models available in the South African market. Compare features, engine options, safety features, and resale values. Popular bakkie brands in South Africa include Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, and Isuzu D-Max.

4. Nearly-new vs. Used: Decide whether to buy a nearly-new or used bakkie. Demo bakkies offer the latest features and warranties but come with a higher price tag. Used bakkies can be more affordable, but be cautious about their condition and history.

5. Dealerships and Private Sellers: Explore options from authorized dealerships and private sellers. Dealerships offer certified pre-owned vehicles with warranties, while private sellers might provide better pricing flexibility.

6. Vehicle History and Inspection: If considering a used bakkie, obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report and consider having a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle for any hidden issues.

7. Test Drive: Always take the bakkie for a test drive. Evaluate its comfort, handling, braking, and performance. Test the four-wheel-drive system if applicable.

8. Negotiate Price: Don't hesitate to negotiate the price. Research comparable bakkies to have a benchmark for negotiation.

9. Paperwork and Documentation: Ensure all necessary paperwork is in order. This includes the vehicle's registration, roadworthy certificate, service history, and ownership transfer documents.

10. Financing and Insurance: If needed, arrange financing through a bank or lending institution. Also, obtain insurance coverage to protect your investment.

11. Resale Value: Consider the potential resale value of the bakkie. Respected brands and well-maintained vehicles tend to retain their value better.

12. Finalise the Deal: Once you're satisfied with the vehicle's condition and the terms of the deal, finalize the purchase. Complete the necessary paperwork and ensure proper ownership transfer.

13. Maintenance and Upkeep: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your bakkie running smoothly. Follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule and address any issues promptly.

Conclusion

South Africa-bound JAC T9 Hunter takes centre stage at Shanghai Motor Show.

The 2023 running of the Shanghai Auto Show marks a significant milestone in the event’s history as this year saw it celebrate 20 years of turning the Shanghai Convention Center into an automotive treasure trove.

It also served as the launch pad for several new models, most notably the already-seen Volvo EX90, Nissan Ariya, Toyota Crown and Camry, and several quirky offerings such as the battlefield-ready military-looking 917 SUV made by Dongfeng Motors.

Barrage of bakkies

Key models for South Africa included the facelift but almost-new-in-every-aspect Porsche Cayenne and the GWM Tank 300.

The Tank 300, which also showcased several models from its upscale Wey division, also premiered a plug-in hybrid version of its P-Series bakkie, which has so far been kept under wraps for South Africa.

Another interesting addition was a mild-hybrid version of the retro Big Dog and the Shanhai Cannon bakkies that top GWM’s range above the P-Series.

The foundation for the Tank 500, aimed directly at the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, the Shanhai, is another uncertainty for the South African market, but as with the hybrid P-Series, could potentially become a reality should approval be given.

SA-bound Hunter

Despite not being as popular in China as in South Africa, a strong bakkie presence exists in Shanghai, with the JAC T9 Hunter of being particular interest. Seemingly updated despite little being said, the Hunter, as previously reported, has been given the go-ahead for JAC Johannesburg, South Africa. An exact date for its arrival hasn’t been announced yet.

Established bakkie builder Ford showcased two versions of the F-150; the Raptor and all-electric Lightning, as well as the new Mondeo, Ranger and smash-hit Bronco bakkies.

Over on the Honda stand, the new CR-V took centre stage along with its Chinese market-only twin, the Breeze, while the ZR-V was another drawcard as it sits between die CR-V and HR-V in Honda’s SUV line-up.

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Attractive styling and great drive make this entry-level bakkie an affordable option for leisure use.

The Mitsubishi Triton GL looks anything but entry-level.

Bakkies might have been initially designed to get cargo from point A to point B, but they have evolved into technologically advanced machines.

These days all the flagship double cabs of the leading bakkie producers boast top-notch safety systems. They are powered by refined powerplants mated to sophisticated automatic gearboxes.

Their cabins feature leather seats, state-of-the-art connectivity systems and creature comforts like heated seats. On the outside, there have nice wheels, LED headlights, load bin liners, style bars and fancy roller shutters.

But not everyone in the market for a double cab bakkie for leisure or dual purpose can afford these top-end offerings. Neither does everyone need or want all the fancy things included in price tags north of R800 000.

The problem is that affordable double cab options with styling that is more leisurely than commercially-orientated in the established bakkie brands’ stables are very limited.

More often than not, these models will be fairly base spec compromised with things like steel wheels, non-coloured coded bumpers and door handle.

This has no doubt contributed to many buyers weighing up better-specified models offered by lesser-established bakkie brands like Mahindra, GWM and JAC.

Mitsubishi’s new direction

Ford took notice of the opportunity by introducing the XL Sport two years ago, a very base-specced model whose styling is pimped up to make it a very presentable leisure or dual-use option.

Mitsubishi has followed suit with the introduction of the Triton 2.4 DI-D 4×2 double cab GL. The GL offers the gateway to the Mitsubishi bakkie brand at R115 000 less than its previous entry-level offering.

The Mitsubishi Triton line-up before the introduction of the GL comprised exclusively of leisure offerings. But the Japanese carmaker’s new approach is to appeal to both business and fleet owners alongside leisure users.

We have our doubts about whether or not the GL should be considered as a hard-core commercial option after being very impressed by it during its recent week-long stay.

Sure, it’s tough and strong enough to get the job done, but it’s just too damn pretty to get abused by wayward flying bricks and cubes of gravel in a building yard!

Sexy styling

Mitsubishi got the GL’s styling absolutely spot-on. There is nothing workhorse about this bakkie that should blend in perfectly between the fancy SUVs out there.

Chrome-coated door handles, side mirrors, tailgate handles and around the side steps complement the chrome accents on Mitsubishi’s familiar Dynamic Shield front design.

The exterior package is completed by simple yet stylish six-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels wrapped with chunky 245/70 R16 rubber ware.

Inside, the Triton GL is less fancy, but definitely not cheap and nasty. A combination of soft-touch faux leather finishes a variety of decent black plastics and brushed silver inserts gives the cabin a good quality feel along with dark grey fabric seats.

Interior features include a Sony touchscreen infotainment system with a USB socket, auto air-conditioner, day/night rearview mirror and four-spoke urethane grip steering wheel with tilt and telescopic adjustment.

Our biggest gripe with the Mitsubishi Triton GL’s cabin was the lack of steering wheel controls. With the radio also bereft of a good ol’ volume knob, it takes some good hand/eye coordination to adjust the volume by virtue of a tiny button below the infotainment screen.

Safety features come in the form of two front airbags, ABS with EBD and BAS, a brake override system and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

The absence of rear parking sensors and a reverse camera was a bit of a concern. One of the biggest challenges operating a vehicle 5 285 mm long is manoeuvring it in tight spaces and having no help in the form of a parking sensor or rear camera will spook most drivers.

Mitsubishi power

The real star of the show in the GL in our opinion – stealing even the exterior styling’s thunder – is the engine. Like the rest of the Mitsubishi bakkie range, the GL is powered by a 2.4-litre turbo diesel engine, but a detuned version.

With outputs of 100kW/324Nm it might sound underpowered compared to the 133kW/430Nm version serving on its siblings, but judge this mill on face value at your own peril. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, this diesel mill is a gem.

Acceleration through the lower gears is swift and smooth, unlike the almost truck-like feel of the first and second gears on some manual bakkies. It never felt underpowered in city traffic and impressed with its torque at lower revs in higher gears.

Its fuel consumption also impressed. Mitsubishi claims that the GL will sip 8.0-litres per 100 km and we managed to match that over 520 km. One open road stint returned an excellent number of 7.5 L/100 km.

Featuring double wishbones with coil spring and stabiliser in the front and above-the-axle leaf spring rear suspension, the Triton’s ride is as smooth as you’d come to expect from a top-end bakkie nowadays.

The Triton GL has a payload of one ton and a braked towing mass of 1 400 kg.

Conclusion

The Mitsubishi Triton GL makes a compelling case, offering great value for money. While compromises have been made to keep the cost down, the areas that matter do not disappoint.

While Mitsubishi intended it to be a working bakkie on weekdays suitable and styled for leisure use over weekends, we tend to believe the opposite is true.

It can show off at the malls and schools during the week and carry mountain bikes and surfboards… and maybe some garden refuse … over a weekend.

The Mitsubishi Triton GL comes standard with a three-year/100 000 km warranty and a five-year/90 000 km service plan.

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