In ongoing reliability and fuel tests by JAC Motors South Africa, the T8 2.0L CTi was evaluated in April 2025 at the Gerotek testing facility outside Pretoria. The Citizen reports that on the oval track, it outperformed the range-topping JAC T9, achieving 6.1 litres per 100km at 115km/h, compared to the T9’s 6.2 litres per 100km at the same speed.

“Gerotek testing confirmed what we already knew. Our bakkies deliver an exceptionally low total cost of ownership, driven by class-leading fuel efficiency that delights owners daily,” says JAC Motors South Africa CEO Karl-Heinz Göbel.

“After nearly a decade in South Africa, the T-Series now includes the new T8 Comfort derivative, introduced following extensive market research. Positioned in the mid-R300 000 price range, alongside the T6 2.0L CTi single cab from R299 900, it enhances the range’s overall affordability.”

Engine and performance

The T8 Comfort is powered by JAC Motors’ proven 2.0-litre common-rail turbo-diesel engine with an intercooler and Electric Variable Geometry Turbocharger, which was introduced to the range in 2023. Also used in the T6 single cab, it delivers 104kW at 3 600rpm and 320Nm between 1 600 and 2 600rpm.

Paired with a six-speed manual transmission, the engine delivers strong torque across its powerband for an effortless, relaxed drive. With an average fuel consumption of 6.5 litres per 100km, the 76-litre tank provides an approximate range of 1 100km.

“The T8’s exceptionally low fuel consumption attracts buyers, while its ample power handles heavy loads and trailer towing with ease,” says Göbel, reinforcing the T8’s position as a compelling, versatile choice in the competitive bakkie market.

Build and capability

The JAC T8’s double-wishbone front suspension with coil springs improves handling and comfort, reducing body roll and ensuring lateral rigidity when fully loaded. The rear is equipped with leaf-spring suspension for durability and load support.

Built on a robust ladder frame with rear integral bridge support, the T8 has a 3 090mm wheelbase, 210mm ground clearance and measures 5 325mm (L) x 1 880mm (W) x 1 830mm (H).

It offers a 900kg payload with a double-skinned, corrosion-resistant load box (1 520mm x 1 520mm x 470mm) and four tie-down hooks. A braked towing mass of 2 000kg further enhances its versatility for demanding tasks.

Safety features

Safety is central to JAC Motors’ philosophy, reflected in the T8’s comprehensive active and passive features:

• Driver and passenger airbags
• Traction Control
• Vehicle Dynamics Control
• Electronic Stability Control
• Hill-start Hold Control

Safety is further enhanced with:

• Front and rear disc brakes
• Four-channel Anti-lock Braking System
• Electronic Brake-force Distribution
• Brake Override System
• Hydraulic Brake Assist
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

The JAC T8 Comfort adds:

• Immobiliser
• Remote central locking with auto-locking
• Child locks
• Electrically adjustable exterior mirrors
• High-mounted stop lamp
• LED tail lamps
• Fog lamps
• Rear park sensors

“Local research shows JAC T8 owners highly value its fuel efficiency, comfort and safety,” says Göbel. “The new JAC T8 Comfort, with its affordable price and extensive standard features, further strengthens our customer value proposition.”

Design and comfort

The JAC T8 blends modern styling with rugged appeal, featuring:

• Large honeycomb grille
• LED headlamps
• LED daytime running lights
• Fog lamps
• Bold wheel arches
• 18-inch steel wheels with 265/60 R18 tyres

The T8 Comfort includes:

• Hydraulic power steering
• Multifunction leather-bound steering wheel
• Adjustable steering column
• Cruise control
• Air conditioning
• Electric windows
• Leatherette seats
• One-touch driver’s window

A multi-information display shows key vehicle data, while Bluetooth, a radio/MP3 player and six speakers keep occupants connected. USB and 12V sockets are housed in a closable centre console for added convenience.

Pricing

The suggested retail prices of the JAC T8 line-up:

• T8 2.0L CTi 4×2 Comfort – R349 900
  Includes a five-year / 100 000km warranty and roadside assistance. Service intervals are every 15 000km, with the first service at 10 000km.
• T8 2.0L CTi 4×2 Lux – R399 900
• T8 2.0L CTi 4×4 Lux – R449 900

Pricing includes a five-year/200 000km warranty and a five-year/100 000km service plan.

The JAC T8 is offered in six colours, with manufacturer-approved accessories available through dealers to help owners personalise their bakkies.

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