JAC Motors SA has introduced a pair of facelifted T8 double-cab bakkies in Super Lux grade. The 2023 4×2 and 4×4 derivatives are said to offer “R50k worth of extra features” over – while maintaining price parity with – the pre-facelift Lux versions.

The JAC T8 2.0CTi Super Lux double-cab 4×2 and 4×4, which are positioned between the T6 double-cab workhorse and the imminent T9 flagship, are priced under R500k, which includes a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and service plan. This introduction follows the 2021 launch of Lux-spec T8 derivatives.

Compared with its predecessor, the 2023 model is distinguished by a chrome-plated grille, Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights, black wheel arches, running boards, a style bar, fog lamps (both front and rear), as well as characteristic “Double C” LED taillamps.

Two-tone 18-inch alloys shod with 265/60 R18 are standard and the 4×4 derivative additionally features a black off-road style bar, rear step bumper, plus side steps.

Inside, the JAC T8 2.0CTi Super Lux comes standard with features such as keyless entry, central locking with auto door locks, multi-function steering wheel, adjustable steering column, cruise control, aircon, electric windows (with one-touch up/down for the driver), heated side mirrors, leather upholstery, as well as newly-designed front seats with power adjustment for the driver’s seat.

The infotainment system utilises a 9-inch touchscreen, supports Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and incorporates a reverse-view camera that works in conjunction with rear parking sensors. USB and 12V power sockets are said to be “discreetly placed within a closable compartment in the centre console”.

In response “to customer feedback, T8 Super Lux derivatives come standard with electric sunroofs,” says Karl-Heinz Göbel, the CEO of JAC Motors South Africa.

The model is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which produces peak outputs of 104 kW at 3 600 rpm and 320 Nm torque from 1 600 to 2 600 rpm.

The powerplant is mated exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission and the bakkie’s importer claims that the 4×2 derivative has an average fuel consumption of 7.8 L/100 km (combined cycle). Considering that the bakkie has a 76-litre tank, that would give it a theoretical range of about 1 000 km from filled to the brim to empty.

The JAC T8 2.0CTi Super Lux is 5 325 mm long (with a wheelbase of 3 090 mm), 1 880 mm wide, stands 1 830 mm tall, has a turning radius of 6.2 meters and a braked tow rating of 2 000 kg. Its double-skinned load box’s payload capacity is 900 kg.

The 4×4 derivative is equipped with an electronically-controlled part-time four-wheel-drive system supplied by BorgWarner. At the touch of a button, the driver can switch between two-wheel drive (2H) and four-wheel drive (4H) at speeds up to 80 kph.

Apart from low-range four-wheel drive (4L), 4×4 enthusiasts can utilise a rear diff-lock when traversing truly challenging off-road terrain. The bakkie has an approach angle of 29.6 degrees, a break-over angle of 23.5 degrees and a departure angle of 22.4 degrees; the stated ground clearance is 220 mm.

Safety-wise, all derivatives are equipped with dual front airbags and (as of the facelift) a pair of ISOfix child-seat mounting points. ABS with EBD and brake assist is complemented by an electronic stability programme, which incorporates traction-, vehicle dynamics- and hill-start hold control, plus a tyre pressure monitoring system.

What does the 2023 JAC T8 cost in South Africa?

JAC Motors, which entered the South African market in 2017, currently has 60 dealers across Southern Africa. These prices include 24-hour roadside assistance, a 5-year/100 000 km manufacturer’swarranty and a 5-year/100 000 km service plan. Service intervals are every 10 000 km.

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