JAC expands T9 range with new cab-chassis ute

By Ashley Morgan 16/08/2026 3 min read 6 views

JAC Motors has expanded its local T9 4×4 dual cab ute range with the addition of a cab-chassis variant, a move aimed at the tradie market where customisation is standard practice. The new model, called the Tradepro, offers a “blank canvas” for buyers to install their own service bodies or trays, a strategy supported by internal company data suggesting around 60 per cent of the target audience modifies their vehicles. The Tradepro comes standard with the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine and eight-speed automatic transmission found in the regular ute, but without the bodywork, making it a simpler, more work-focused machine.

Despite the stripped-back body, the Tradepro cab-chassis is well-equipped. It features 18-inch steel wheels with 265/60 R18 tyres, a full-size spare, LED lighting, fog lights, rear parking sensors, and a reversing camera. Inside, the cabin includes smart keyless entry, push-button start, heavy-duty seat fabrics, and a digital 7.0-inch instrument cluster alongside a 10.4-inch touchscreen for the media system. The vehicle is priced at $38,990 (excluding tray and on-road costs), a figure that undercuts comparable dual cab-chassis models from major manufacturers like the Ford Ranger XL and Toyota HiLux Workmate.

Specs and Performance

The Tradepro rides on a 3110mm wheelbase and shares the same off-road geometry as its ute-bodied siblings, including 27-degree approach and 23-degree departure angles, 210mm of ground clearance, and 650mm of wading depth.

During testing, the engine showed ample torque for energetic performance, keeping revs within the optimal 1500-2500rpm band during acceleration. The transmission provides sequential manual shifting and optimises engine-braking on steep descents. The ride quality is firm, typical of a work-focused ute, but offers enough compliance over bumps for comfortable highway cruising. The steering feel and handling response are refined, and the truck maintains a stable stance even when loaded.

The T9 is rated to tow up to 3200kg of braked trailer. JAC claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 7.6L/100km, though real-world testing showed a figure closer to 10.3L/100km over a 301km route, which included suburban, city, and highway driving.

Interior Space and Safety

While the cab-chassis is designed for utility, the cabin offers surprising space and comfort. The interior features a mix of soft-touch surfaces and contrasting red stitching, giving it a look that feels more upmarket than its price point suggests. Rear passengers have ample headroom and knee space, although shoulder room can be tight for three adults. The rear seats are split 60/40 and can be stored vertically to create more load space, though the seatbelt buckles are located in deep recesses that can be awkward to access.

Storage is plentiful, with bottle holders, bins, and a centre console box that doubles as a driver’s elbow rest. The safety equipment is full, with a maximum five-star ANCAP rating awarded in 2024. Features include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) for reversing, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, tyre pressure monitoring, speed sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and trailer mode. ISOFIX child-restraint anchorages are available on the two outer rear seating positions.

Ownership Details

JAC backs the T9 with a seven-year/unlimited kilometre warranty that includes the tray if installed before delivery, along with seven years of roadside assistance. Scheduled servicing is required every 12 months or 15,000km, with capped pricing for the first seven services totaling $3340. The dealer network spans more than 50 locations across every state and territory.