JAC T6 ready to work in SA

JAC recently created headlines with its flagship T9 2.0 CTi Hunter bakkie, offering almost every bell and whistle for under R700 000. But at the opposite end of the JAC line-up, the Chinese vehicle maker has introduced a new T6 model aimed at businesses and entrepreneurs. The JAC T6 was previously offered exclusively to left-hand-drive markets, but due to demand, it is now being built in right-hand-drive configuration. 

A powertrain ready to transport

Under the bonnet of both the JAC T6 Comfort and Lux derivatives features a 2.0-litre, direct-injection, common-rail, turbo-diesel motor. This includes an intercooler, and the turbo used offers Electrical Variable Geometry for better efficiency. The motor delivers 102kW and 320Nm of torque to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission.

JAC claims that this powertrain should deliver an average combined unladen fuel consumption of 6.9 L/100km, allowing owners to travel up to 1,100km on the 76-litre tank. According to Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors South Africa, owners can expect an average combined fuel consumption of around 8.0 L/100km with a 750kg load on the back of the 1-tonner.

Exterior

The JAC T6 single-cab has the traditional, purpose-built appearance of a 1-ton bakkie. As for the load-box, this measures 2 260mm × 1 520mm × 470mm and, as alluded to, has a 1 000kg payload. For those requiring extra load space, the model has a maximum braked towing capacity of 1 400kg. 

For convenience and safety, the T6 includes external rope hooks, cargo tie-down hooks and a rear step bumper. As for the wheels and tyres, customers can expect both derivatives to be fitted with 17-inch wheels utilising 245/65 R17 tyres. The exterior of the T6 is completed with halogen headlamps with headlamp levelling, a high-mounted stop lamp, and rear fog lamps.

Interior & Safety

As expected for the interior of a workhorse bakkie, the Comfort derivative offers cloth upholstery; however, the Lux derivatives feature leatherette trim for added luxury. Both derivatives of the T6 include power steering, air-conditioning, electric windows, and a height-adjustable, leather-clad multi-function steering wheel. Additionally, customers can expect electrically adjustable side mirrors with indicators. 

Continuing on the safety theme, the T6 has seatbelt alarms, dual airbags, front disc and rear drum brakes, 4-channel ABS and Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, an immobiliser, remote keyless entry, central locking with speed-sensing door locks, and rear park distance sensors. The Lux derivative takes the rear park distance control further by adding a reverse camera.

This brings us to the screens: while both the Comfort and Lux provide a multi-information display in the instrument binnacle, the Lux derivative benefits from a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Bluetooth connectivity. Comfort drivers also get to listen to music via a radio/MP3 player, which is Bluetooth-compatible.

Pricing

Included in the pricing of the new T6 2.0L CTi single-cab is a 5-year/100 000km manufacturer warranty with 24-hour roadside assistance for the same period.