The 2025 Pickup Truck of the Year evaluation, held at the CAERI Dazu Test Base, witnessed the participation of ten new models from nine leading manufacturers. Categorized into segments like “Fashionable Commercial Use,” “Suitable for Business and Family,” and “Comfortable Passenger Use,” these vehicles underwent rigorous testing by a team of professional engineers from CAERI. Concurrently, a panel of industry experts and senior editors from China Pickup Truck Network conducted subjective evaluations, assessing the overall vehicle performance.
A notable highlight of this year’s evaluation was the sole presence of the JAC T9 Passenger Edition in the “Comfortable Passenger Use” category. This underscores its unique position as the only new fuel-powered pickup truck launched within the passenger pickup segment throughout the year. The journey of the JAC T9 Passenger Edition has been one of continuous refinement. Unveiled at the previous year’s Chengdu Motor Show, it underwent meticulous upgrades before its official market launch at this year’s show. This meticulous approach reflects JAC Pickup’s commitment to delivering a product of the highest quality.
A Fusion of Aesthetics and Functionality: The JAC T9 Passenger Edition
The JAC T9 Passenger Edition boasts a striking exterior design, drawing inspiration from Chinese aesthetics. The front grille, available in three distinctive styles – “Oriental Dragon,” “China Ding,” and “Mecha Style” – offers consumers a unique expression of personal style. The integration of sequential turn signals, split headlights, and a roof-mounted luggage rack with an optional side awning enhances both functionality and visual appeal. The 265/60 R18 tires, mounted on stylish “Dragon Scales” rims, further emphasize the vehicle’s robust character.
Inside, the JAC T9 Passenger Edition exudes a premium feel. Inspired by the Forbidden City, the interior features a symmetrical T-shaped design, creating a sense of spaciousness and elegance. The harmonious blend of high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship elevates the overall cabin ambiance.
Advanced Technology and Comfort Features:
The JAC T9 Passenger Edition is generously equipped with advanced features. The 7-inch LCD instrument cluster and 10.4-inch vertical touchscreen provide a user-friendly interface, enhanced by dynamic UI skins like “Oriental Dragon” and “Arctic Blue Light.” The vehicle boasts comprehensive connectivity features, including vehicle networking, voice control, Beidou and GPS dual-mode navigation, remote vehicle control, and wireless infotainment system connectivity.
Passenger comfort is paramount. The JAC T9 Passenger Edition offers features like a fully automatic thermostatic air conditioner, rain-sensing wipers, a 50W super-fast wireless charging pad, and multiple USB ports. The front seats are equipped with heating functionality, while the front center armrest incorporates a cooling function, ensuring comfort during warmer months. Ambient lighting adds a touch of sophistication to the cabin.
Safety and Convenience:
The JAC T9 Passenger Edition prioritizes safety and convenience. Keyless entry, one-touch start, and a comprehensive suite of L2-level driving assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, enhance both driver convenience and safety. The high-end model further elevates convenience with the innovative J-Watch smart watch key, which seamlessly transitions from a stylish timepiece to a vehicle key, eliminating the hassle of carrying traditional keys.
Unmatched Performance: Power and Handling
Equipped with a 2.0T gasoline/diesel engine option, the JAC T9 Passenger Edition delivers impressive performance. The Ankang Technology 2.0CTI high-power diesel engine, with its maximum power of 125kW and peak torque of 420N·m, provides robust power delivery. The ZF 8AT gearbox ensures smooth and efficient gear shifts, while achieving a commendable fuel economy of around 8.5L/100km and as low as 7L/100km on highways.
The JAC T9 Passenger Edition excels in handling. The precisely tuned steering system offers a responsive and engaging driving experience, with three selectable modes (Standard, Sport, and Comfort) allowing drivers to personalize their driving preferences. The Sport mode enhances responsiveness by holding gears longer and maximizing engine performance. The robust 2 longitudinal and 9 transverse variable cross-section welded ladder frame provides exceptional torsional rigidity, ensuring stability and control even on challenging terrains. This was evident during the emergency obstacle avoidance slalom test at the CAERI test site, where the JAC T9 Passenger Edition demonstrated exceptional agility.
Off-Road Capability: A True Pickup Truck
For off-road enthusiasts, the JAC T9 Passenger Edition offers impressive capabilities. The 4WD model features an electronically controlled part-time 4WD system with three driving modes: 4L, 4H, and 2H. The 4L mode, with its 2.48 times torque amplification, provides exceptional traction and climbing ability on challenging terrains. With an approach angle of 30°, a departure angle of 23°, a breakover angle of 26°, and a ground clearance exceeding 230mm, the JAC T9 Passenger Edition is well-equipped to tackle various off-road challenges.
Comfort and Refinement: A Passenger-Focused Approach
The JAC T9 Passenger Edition elevates passenger comfort with the introduction of a multi-link rear suspension, significantly improving ride quality and reducing vibrations. The cabin is remarkably quiet, effectively minimizing engine and road noise. These refinements underscore JAC Pickup’s commitment to creating a truly passenger-focused pickup truck.
Conclusion:
The JAC T9 Passenger Edition represents a significant advancement in the pickup truck segment. Its stylish design, advanced technology features, and focus on passenger comfort make it a compelling option for both daily commuting and weekend adventures.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the author’s observations and information gathered from the 2025 Pickup Truck of the Year evaluation.