JAC to disrupt PH pickup truck market with T9 Pro

When JAC Cars Philippines relaunched in the country earlier this year at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) they brought a plethora of vehicles that include several crossovers, a pair of pickup trucks, and an electric vehicle (EV). However, the brand is currently offering a select few models based on what they revealed at the annual auto show.

The automaker recently invited us over for a ride-and-drive of the all-new JS6 and the JS8 Pro which are now on sale. During the drive, however, we noticed that one of the yet-to-be-launched vehicles was also present and being used by JAC personnel. That vehicle is the T9 Pro pickup truck which serves as the brand’s stylish and capable offering.

The T9 Pro sits above the T8 Pro and comes with plenty of amenities. In addition, the T9 Pro looks more macho and aggressive which is set to attract 4x4 enthusiasts and lifestyle pickup truck customers. But when will the company actually launch the T9 Pro in the Philippine market?

Speaking with a well-placed source, they shared with us that they plan to launch the T9 Pro before the year ends. No exact timeline is available yet although our anonymous source did mention they plan to reveal it sometime in Q3 or perhaps in Q4 of this year.

Based on additional insider info, the automaker plans to offer a total of three variants of the T9 Pro. The lineup will likely include 4x2 versions as well as a top-of-the-line 4x4 variant complete with all the bells & whistles. All models will be powered by a 2.0L turbo-diesel inline-four that pushes out 170 PS along with 410 Nm of torque. Power is then transferred to an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

When it comes to features, the PH-spec T9 Pro could have similar specifications as the global models. Based on the prototype model we saw at MIAS (and during the drive), the T9 Pro will likely come with a tablet-inspired touchscreen infotainment, automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto connectivity, LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, wireless charging pad, and perhaps a 360-degree camera for extra visibility all-around.

Pricing for the T9 Pro is not yet available at this time. However, the T9 Pro may start at around PHP 1.3 million and top out at PHP 1.5 million.

With its immense size, long list of features, and aggressive looks, JAC may have a winner on their hands with the upcoming T9 Pro pickup truck. Fingers crossed the automaker launches it very soon.