Ever heard of JAC Motors? I know, neither had I but they are a very big motor brand in China. Now before you go and say anything about Chinese vehicles, most of our phones and computers and electronic devices have items that are manufactured in China and they are of really good build quality!
The particular JAC that is in mind is the Single Cab, workhorse machine, X200. A one and a half ton pick up truck, bakkie, whatever you’d like to call it that can help you with literally anything and everything! I myself have never driven a bakkie or truck of that sort but it was as easy as a car. The gearbox was smooth but tight, as it had less than 200 kilometers on it, the clutch was nice and light and never once made me feel like I was driving a diesel. The steering was light and effortless, I had to remember I was driving a truck when going through some corners as it was just so planted on the road. That is actually a bit strange as I didn’t expect anything of this character to feel so good on the road. It absorbed bumps very nicely too.
The motor that drives this machine is 2.8 liter diesel from an Isuzu and we all know how rugged and strong those motors are. It is mated to a 5 speed box that had a nice throw. I think the item that took me by surprise the most was the fact it has a very cold air-con standard! It felt like I was sitting in the arctic with it as I had to adjust it a few times to make sure I didn’t freeze myself over. Another really nice item that is included on all JAC Motors is a 5 year, limited, factory warranty and 5 year, limited, service plan. Now that is very, very rare nowadays as everyone wants to make money where they can!
Altogether, I must say I was impressed by how nice the machine was, the build quality and the fact it doesn’t feel under R300k. Yes, at the moment, the price on this vehicle is under R300k and that is truly a bargain especially for someone who is just getting into a small building business of some sort. Stay tuned for the blog on the JAC T8, that is also a machine for the price!