Read more
JAC T8 upgraded with more power
Uptake matched by an unchanged torque figure and six-speed gearbox.
Introduction of the new engine has not altered the T8’s styling.
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.
ALSO READ: Aggressively styled JAC T9 bakkie confirmed for South Africa
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.
