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Conquering the Wilderness: My Off-Road Adventure with the JAC T9 and JS9 in China
I recently had the privilege of attending JAC Day, an exclusive event hosted by the manufacturer, where I got to experience their vehicles firsthand. The most memorable part was undoubtedly the thrilling off-road drives in the JAC T9 pickup and the JAC JS9 SUV. These vehicles instill significant confidence, thanks to their robust engineering and advanced technological assistance.
Experiencing the JAC T9 Hybrid Pickup Off-Road
While the JAC T9 pickup is available in many markets with a diesel engine, JAC prepared a special treat near Chengdu: a hybrid version and a fully electric variant. Visually, all T9 models make a strong statement, perfectly suited for rugged terrain. But does their off-road appearance truly reflect their capabilities?
Without hesitation, I joined the queue for a test drive in the hybrid JAC T9, boasting an impressive combined power output of approximately 360 kilowatts (kW), or around 490 horsepower (hp). With a formidable torque of 670 Newton-meters (Nm), this vehicle is engineered to tackle virtually any challenge.
Initial Impressions: Power and Stability on Varied Terrain
My first lap was as a passenger, comfortably seated in the rear of the air-conditioned cabin, a welcome respite from the scorching temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104°F). This allowed me to focus entirely on the vehicle’s performance and the challenging route. The initial section featured a compact and relatively even surface, where the T9’s immense power truly shone. It sped confidently along closed gravel roads and concrete segments, demonstrating impressive acceleration and remarkable driving stability.
Navigating Challenging Conditions: Mud and Slippery Slopes
Next, we transitioned to much looser, at times muddy, terrain. The entire course followed a narrow path bordered by dense trees. Equipped with versatile tires, the bright red mud ahead looked particularly daunting. However, the JAC T9 remained unfazed. The hybrid pickup never once got stuck, effortlessly powering through slippery ruts and successfully reversing on inclines. This segment truly earned my respect for the vehicle’s capabilities.
The ease with which the T9 handled these obstacles was remarkable. Simply switching the drive mode to ‘off-road’ automatically optimized the vehicle’s settings. During intricate maneuvers, the cameras and sensors proved surprisingly useful. Their calibration was so precise that the vehicle displayed distances to trees and other obstacles with an accuracy of up to 5 centimeters (about 2 inches), providing invaluable assistance and control.
Tackling Tough Terrain with the JAC JS9 SUV
After several laps on the demanding off-road track, I also took the wheel of the JAC JS9 SUV, a model not yet widely available in many international markets. Powering this large SUV is a 2.0-liter gasoline engine producing 224 hp, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Crucially for off-road enthusiasts, it features a switchable four-wheel-drive system, low-range gearing, and a differential lock.
The interior of the JAC JS9 feels even more versatile, which is fitting for such a spacious vehicle. Comfort levels are high, even at higher speeds on gravel, though it’s noticeable that it has less raw power than the hybrid JAC T9. Nevertheless, it performed admirably in the muddy conditions. While it didn’t offer the same level of raw control as the T9, its sophisticated systems excelled in ensuring safe and confident navigation. For more on advanced SUV features, explore our review of the Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport.
JAC’s Urban Offerings: A Glimpse into the Future
Our experience then shifted from the rugged off-road tracks to asphalt, where three different urban models awaited. These included the JAC JS4 Pro, the larger JS8 Pro, and the compact electric E30X. Currently, none of these models are extensively offered in many global markets, which is a missed opportunity given their potential.
JAC JS4 Pro: The Compact SUV
The JAC JS4 Pro represents the brand’s compact SUV segment. This vehicle combines a modern, somewhat aggressive styling with a spacious and contemporary cabin. Under the hood, it features a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine (1.5T) delivering 150 hp, integrated with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
JAC JS8 Pro: The Versatile Family SUV
Visually, the JAC JS8 Pro stands out with its striking design. This SUV measures over 4.8 meters (approximately 15.7 feet) in length and is available in six- and seven-seat configurations, making it a versatile option for families. It’s powered by an enhanced version of the 1.5T engine, producing 175 hp. Although I didn’t have the opportunity for an extended drive, a short spin revealed excellent comfort levels, even at higher speeds. Discover another blend of comfort and performance in our drive review of the new Opel Astra.
JAC E30X: The Agile Electric City Car
The JAC E30X is an incredibly charming vehicle. This electric hatchback boasts a retro-inspired silhouette with modern design accents. It’s powered by a 136 hp motor, offering an estimated range of approximately 400 kilometers (about 250 miles) on a single charge. With a length of just over four meters (around 13 feet) and a tight turning radius, it’s an agile car perfectly suited for urban environments and navigating tight parking spaces.
Conclusion: JAC’s Expanding Vision
JAC Day provided a comprehensive look at the brand’s diverse and growing portfolio, from capable off-roaders to promising urban electric vehicles. The T9 hybrid pickup and JS9 SUV demonstrated impressive performance in challenging conditions, while the JS4 Pro, JS8 Pro, and E30X offered a glimpse into JAC’s commitment to modern design, practicality, and sustainable mobility. As JAC continues to expand its reach, these models hint at an exciting future for the brand in the global automotive market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The JAC T9 hybrid pickup stands out with a combined power output of approximately 360 kW (490 hp) and 670 Nm of torque, allowing it to navigate challenging terrains with ease. Its advanced off-road mode, precise sensors, and capable four-wheel-drive system contribute to its confidence-inspiring performance in mud and slippery conditions.
The JAC JS9 SUV, equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine (224 hp), an 8-speed gearbox, switchable 4WD, low-range gearing, and a differential lock, handles muddy and challenging terrains effectively. While it offers less raw power than the T9 hybrid, its sophisticated systems provide excellent control and stability for confident off-road driving.
JAC’s urban lineup includes the compact JS4 Pro SUV (1.5T, 150 hp, CVT), the versatile JS8 Pro family SUV (6/7 seats, 1.5T, 175 hp), and the agile electric E30X hatchback (136 hp, ~400 km range). These models emphasize modern design, spacious interiors, and efficient powertrains tailored for city driving.
JAC’s off-road vehicles, particularly the T9, utilize technologies such as an intelligent off-road drive mode that automatically optimizes settings for various terrains. Additionally, highly calibrated cameras and sensors provide precise obstacle detection (accurate to within 5 cm), significantly aiding drivers during complex maneuvers in challenging environments.
Source: Own elaboration. Opening photo: Krzysztof Wilamowski
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