JAC T9: Chinese ute spotted in Sydney, launching soon

4x4 Australia has snapped the JAC T9 testing in Sydney ahead of the Chinese dual-cab ute's launch in the coming weeks.

The T9 prototype 'evaluation vehicle', complete with eponymous rego plates, was spotted at Westfield Eastgardens during the weekend (though it's unclear whether negotiating the big car park was part of actual testing!).

Local JAC importer BLK Auto is putting the diesel-powered T9 through its final stages of preparation for an ambitious assault on the intensely competitive ute segment.

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A turbo diesel version will be available initially from launch, featuring a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 125kW (at 3600rpm) and 410Nm (between 1500 and 2500rpm) and teamed with a ZF eight-speed auto.

That compares favourably with other 'challenger' utes from Ssangyong and GWM, with the Musso and Cannon producing 133kW/420Nm and 120kW/400Nm, respectively. The LDV T60 produces 160kW and 500Nm thanks to a twin-turbo diesel.

The T9 will feature an electronic part-time 4WD system and comes with a 3500kg braked towing capacity to match the segment standard, and a payload max of exactly 1000kg.

BLK Auto has previously said pricing will be similar to its most direct rivals, with the GWM, LDV and Ssangyong utes starting from between $37K and $39K driveaway in equivalent auto form.

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The fully electric T9 will arrive in the third quarter of 2024, 4x4 Australia has been told.

It's only direct rival would be the steeply priced LDV eT60 that is targeted more at government and business fleets than private buyers, with a cost of $92,990.

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The diesel 4WD T9 we spotted was the equivalent of what is a range-topping Super Lux trim grade in South Africa – which was the first right-hand-drive market to receive the ute, late last year.

Extra Super Lux features in that market include electric sunroof, electric folding mirrors, privacy glass, surround view camera, and roof rails.

Equipment for the Lux model is quite extensive and would be expected to be replicated for the Australian market.

A representative for JAC importers said T9 examples had also been imported for ANCAP crash testing. BLK Auto has said it expects the T9 to be awarded a maximum five-star rating.