JAC planning Ford Everest-rivalling SUV for Australia
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JAC is considering bringing a large off-road SUV to Australia, based on its T9 diesel ute. This move would expand the Chinese brand’s model lineup and compete with established players like LDV, GWM, Ford, and Isuzu.
"We’re definitely looking to bring in more [models]. The SUV derivative is under investigation," said JAC Australia managing director Ahmed Mahmoud.
The JS9, an SUV based on the T9, has been previewed for various markets. International reports suggest it will be longer and larger than the Ford Everest or Nissan Patrol. It’s expected to feature the T9’s 2.0L turbo diesel engine, eight-speed automatic transmission, and four-wheel-drive system, with a petrol option also available abroad.
JAC plans to introduce new-energy SUVs without a frame for family use in the near future, indicating further electric vehicle offerings.
The brand has had a slow start in Australia, selling just 1582 T9 utes in 2025. However, they hope the upcoming plug-in hybrid Hunter ute and potential SUV will change that.
Consumer Journalist Zane Dobie notes: "From a spec, from a price, from a performance point of view… [the Hunter] absolutely has the ability to outsell the T9."