Bakkie lovers are spoilt for choice, and the dominance of the market by the well-established brands does not put a damper on a number of other manufacturers to bring their offerings to South Africa.
Lately, LDV announced the arrival of its pick-up range, followed by Foton and Kia, which also have plans to introduce a range locally.
With all this in mind, some of the other brands that have been here for a period of time are expanding their offerings and updating their ranges to capitalise on the growing demand for this style of vehicle.
JAC Motors is the latest with the expansion of its T-Series double-cab range that’s introducing a very competitively priced version of the T8 range for R399 900.
What’s new?
Introduced in 2023 alongside the all-new luxurious T9, the T8 received a facelift and enhancements to boost its value proposition, featuring the new T8 2.0L CTi Super Lux line-up for the local market. Now the T8 2.0L CTi 4x2 Lux versions in 4x4 and 4x2 derivatives are added just below the Super Lux range.
Exterior:
The rugged appeal continues with bold black wheel arches while running boards and a style bar further enhance its commanding presence. For the 4x4 derivative, a customised black off-road style bar, rear step bumper and side steps enhance its adventurous look.
It boasts two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels with 265/60 R18 tyres. The 'Double C' LED tail-light design enhances visibility at night, adding a touch of distinction to its rear profile. Rear fog lamps complete the package.
Interior:
The T8 Lux combines practicality and comfort and offers various appealing interior appointments, including leather seats, a multi-function steering wheel, an adjustable steering column, cruise control, an air-conditioner and electric windows.
A multi-information display instrument cluster informs drivers of vital information about their vehicles’ health and status. Keeping drivers and passengers connected, it comes standard with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone connectivity.
Specifications:
The T8 range has an array of active and passive safety features like airbags, traction control, vehicle dynamics control, electronic stability control and hill-start hold control. Further enhancing safety, it boasts disc brakes in the front and rear, with ABS and a tyre pressure monitoring system.
The T8 Lux includes a reverse camera, rear park distance sensors, remote keyless entry and central locking.
Engine:
Under the bonnet is a 2-litre common-rail turbo-diesel engine with 104 kW and 320 Nm torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Price:
T8 2.0L CTI 4×2 Lux (R399 900), T8 2.0L CTI 4×4 Lux (R449 900), T8 2.0L CTI 4×2 Super Lux (R464 900) and the T8 2.0L CTI 4×4 Super Lux (R514 900).
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Jarod Kintz
Toyota announced that it has expanded its Land Cruiser 70 Series with the addition of new 5-speed manual gearbox option in the range. The manual powertrain will be offered in both the Single Cab and Station Wagon variants.
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