JAC Motors Hunter

I test drove the JAC Motors Hunter with the "Oriental Auspicious Dragon" front face, featuring vertical double条幅 grille inspired by "dragon teeth". The rear has a simple design with large "JAC" logo, LED taillights, four fixed anchor points and factory metal龙门架. The T-shaped center console, inspired by the Forbidden City, is neat and user-friendly. It comes with a 7-inch LCD instrument cluster with two dynamic UI skins and a 10.4-inch vertical touchscreen integrating air conditioning controls, along with rich infotainment features. The engine and 8-speed automatic transmission are tuned for fuel efficiency, shifting to 8th gear at 80km/h and maintaining 1500-2000rpm for optimal torque and economy. It offers four driving modes. The 4WD model has an electronic part-time 4WD system with 4L, 4H, 2H modes, and 4L provides 2.48 times torque amplification. The leaf spring rear suspension controls bounce well when unloaded and gets more comfortable with cargo. The steering is灵巧 with good feedback, making driving easy. The automatic transmission and NVH design for diesel engine enhance cabin quietness, minimizing diesel "哒哒哒" noise.

Though the JAC Motors Hunter is relatively low-key, it's undeniably a rugged pickup. Its toughness lies in features like a body-on-frame construction, standard manual transmission, standard 4WD, and options of 2.0T diesel or 2.4T petrol engines. The exterior design successfully conveys a bold, rugged style, with its 3110mm wheelbase and 5330mm length giving it an imposing look. The interior, however, is rather plain, featuring a T-shaped dashboard, small LCD instrument cluster, and low-resolution infotainment screen, lacking a strong tech feel, though functionally adequate. The 2.0T diesel engine delivers 150 hp and 360 N·m of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, offering a calm and composed performance overall, though the vehicle's weight hampers mid-range acceleration. While the 3110mm wheelbase does little to boost cabin space, the rear seat backrest is more reclined than the Great Wall Cannon's, enhancing comfort, and the large, square doors and side windows contribute to a spacious and bright interior. Overall, the Hunter is quite hardcore with decent comfort, but its tech features need improvement to meet the higher demands of young consumers.

What I'm most satisfied with about the JAC Motors Hunter is its powerful performance, excellent wading capability, versatility as a pickup, and bold appearance. The seats are not too hard, but the second-row space is a bit tight and would be better if more spacious. The cargo bed is really roomy and durable. It handles well when driving in the mountains, with good cornering support and no floating feeling. Its wading ability is strong, and it can get you out if stuck during off-roading. The power is sufficient and strong, meeting the off-road needs of many wage earners. The interior quality is somewhat lacking, but that's understandable as it can't be compared to family cars. Also, there's no automatic transmission; many people, like me, can't drive manual anymore, but the good news is that the Hunter automatic transmission is said to come out by the end of the year.