Recent customer research done by the company showed the need for a 2.8L TDI engine in the local T6 line-up. The range currently comprises the 1.9L TDI Comfort and the 2.0L VVT Petrol Lux 4×2 derivatives, both priced under the R375 000 mark.

Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors South Africa, explained that the need for this engine was particularly driven by customers from neighbouring countries and remote parts of South Africa, where affordability, reliability and ease of maintenance are important buying considerations.

The 2.8-litre four-cylinder common-rail inter-cooled turbocharged diesel engine develops 68 kW @ 3 600 r/min and 210 Nm torque between 1 800 and 2 000 r/min. The powerplant is paired with 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’s payload is 900 kg, and it supports a maximum Towing Mass (Braked) of 2 000 kg.

Standard fitments include power steering, a height-adjustable leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel, air-conditioning, leather seats and electric windows.

The T6 2.8L TDI 4×2 retails for R349 900, and the 4×4 derivative for R399 900. 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.