The JAC T6 range of double-cab bakkies has grown from two derivatives to four with the local introduction of a low-output 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine…

JAC Motors South Africa has expanded its T6 double-cab bakkie line-up by adding a third engine option: a low-powered 2.8-litre turbodiesel unit the Chinese firm promises will deliver “reliability and ease of maintenance”.

According to the company’s local distributor, “customer research” has revealed a need for this engine, which joins the petrol-powered 2.0L VVT Lux 4×2 (108 kW/190 Nm) and oil-burning 1.9L TDI Comfort 4×2 (100 kW/320 Nm) derivatives.

JAC Motors SA describes the 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine as “proven”, with peak outputs of just 68 kW and 210 Nm (yes, far below those of the 1.9-litre unit mentioned above). In rear-driven form, this engine ships with a 5-speed manual gearbox, while the 4×4 derivative gains a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 4×2 variant is priced from R349 900 and has a claimed fuel consumption figure of 7.9 litres per 100 km, while the all-paw, self-shifting version (starting at R399 900) comes in at 10.5 litres per 100 km.

The local JAC T6 double-cab range now comprises four derivatives, two of which use the 2.8-litre engine.

So, why are this engine’s outputs so low (the Toyota Hilux motor of the same capacity, for instance, makes a comparatively heady 150 kW and 500 Nm, or 165 kW and 550 Nm in GR-Sport trim)? Well, JAC Motors SA says 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”.

“Over the past five years, customer feedback played an important role in our brand’s local growth. We believe that the market’s need for a reliable and economical 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine is one of those examples where we can respond with tried-and-tested products,” says Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors SA.

“Our T6 bakkies are reliable all-rounders with excellent gravel-road ability, comfortable cabs and big load boxes. The addition of the 2.8 TDI derivative, with its reliable and durable drivetrain and low maintenance cost, now offers potential customers a choice of an economical workhorse at a much lower purchase price than its double-cab competitors,” adds Göbel.

The T6 2.8 TDI rides on 245/65 R17 tyres and has a claimed ground clearance of 197 mm. The maximum payload comes in at 900 kg, supported by a braked towing limit of 2 000 kg. JAC claims the T6 offers the largest cargo space in its class, with the double-skinned load box measuring 1 520 mm × 1 520 mm × 470 mm (and finished with an anti-scratch, corrosion-resistant bed liner).

In terms of safety, the new derivatives come with dual airbags, ABS and EBD, a high-mounted brake light, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors and speed-sensing automatic door locks. Inside, you’ll find a height-adjustable leather-trimmed multi-functional steering wheel and leather seats.

How much does the JAC T6 2.8 TDI cost in South Africa?

JAC T6 2.0L VVT 4×2 Lux – R344 900

JAC T6 2.8L TDI 4×2 Lux – R349 900

JAC T6 1.9L TDI 4×2 Comfort – R374 900

JAC T6 2.8L TDI 4×4 Lux – R399 900

A 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan are included in the purchase price.

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