👑 The Challenger Arrives: JAC T9 Hunter – Can it Break the ‘Dala’ Supremacy?
Vibe Check: A New Era for Double Cabin Pickups in Pakistan
The JAC T9 Hunter, launched by Ghandhara Automobiles, is a serious, feature-loaded challenger to the dominant Toyota Revo. It’s a lifestyle vehicle that blends the utility of a truck with the luxury and technology of a modern SUV. The big question is whether it can truly be the “Revo Killer“?
1. Specifications and Performance (The 2.0L Turbo Diesel Punch)
The JAC T9 Hunter is powered by a robust and refined engine aimed at balancing power with fuel efficiency.
| Feature | JAC T9 Hunter Specification | Vibe Check / Market Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1999cc (2.0L) Common Rail Turbo Diesel | A smaller engine, aiming for better efficiency. |
| Power/Torque | 168 HP / 410 Nm | Lower power than Revo, but torque is instantly accessible. |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic (ZF) | More gears mean smoother shifts and better fuel economy than rivals’ 6-speed. |
| Fuel Economy | Reported 10–12 KM/L (Combined) | Excellent for a diesel pickup. |
2. Luxury & Interior: Stepping into an SUV
The T9 truly shines in its interior, which is often compared favorably to a luxury SUV.
- Infotainment: A large 10.4-inch Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Luxury: Includes a sleek Electric Sunroof and Leather-accented seats.
- Comfort: Both driver and passenger seats are electrically adjustable, with rear AC vents and Wireless Mobile Charging.
3. Safety & Technology (The Modern Edge)
The T9 Hunter is packed with modern safety and driver assistance features.
- Airbags: Equipped with 6 Airbags, a significant advantage over its primary competitor.
- Active Safety: Includes Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill-Start Hold Control (HHC).
- Visibility: Features a crucial 360° Surround View Camera system.
4. The Review Buzz: Hunter vs. Revo
👍 The Good (The Zabardast Points)
- Competitive Price: The introductory price of PKR 9,750,000 is significantly lower than the Toyota Revo, offering phenomenal value for money.
- Luxury Cabin: The T9’s interior is far more modern, comfortable, and tech-driven than its rivals.
- Efficiency: The 8-speed transmission offers better fuel consumption (10-12 km/L).
👎 The Drawbacks (The Challenging Points)
- Resale Value: As a new entrant, its long-term reliability and resale value are unproven—the biggest hurdle against the Revo.
- Hardcore Off-Roading: The 240 mm ground clearance falls short of the Revo’s capability (310 mm) for tackling extreme terrains.
- After-Sales Network: Its service and dealership network is limited compared to Toyota’s ubiquitous presence.
5. Final Verdict: A Choice of Priorities
The JAC T9 Hunter is a game-changing entry. It is a perfect choice for the urban executive or family that needs a rugged vehicle but prioritizes comfort, modern features, and initial cost savings.
* Buy it if: You want a luxurious, feature-loaded, and stylish pickup for family use and highway driving, and you want to save money on the initial purchase price.
* Skip it if: You rely on your truck for extreme off-roading, or cannot compromise on the legendary reliability and unmatched resale value of the Toyota Revo.
The JAC T9 Hunter is the modern, smart alternative.