JAC T9 Hunter vs Toyota Hilux Revo: Is China’s Premium Pickup Ready to Challenge?

The Pakistani pickup truck segment has long been ruled by one name: the Toyota Hilux Revo. Known for its reliability, massive resale value, and rugged off-road performance, it has been the go-to choice for contractors, security fleets, and business owners alike. But in 2025, a new name has entered the battlefield—the JAC T9 Hunter. Backed by Chinese innovation and styled to impress, the Hunter positions itself as a premium alternative with tech-first appeal and competitive pricing. Read more about JAC T9 Hunter vs Toyota Hilux Revo in the new blog.

But is it ready to knock Toyota off its pedestal? Or is this just another short-lived challenge from an unproven brand?

In this detailed comparison, we take both trucks through real-world conditions across Pakistan—from muddy construction sites to twisty mountain roads—and evaluate them across key categories: build quality, engine performance, off-road capability, payload utility, and ownership experience. This isn’t a spec sheet race—it’s a practical, boots-on-the-ground showdown inspired by the honest, no-fluff testing approach of TFL Truck.

Build Quality and Materials: Toughness vs Flash

Toyota Hilux Revo

• High-strength steel ladder-frame chassis.
• Thick gauge panels, excellent underbody protection.
• Industrial-grade paint durability handles sun and salt with ease.
• Utilitarian but proven—built to last a decade in harsh Pakistani climates.

JAC T9 Hunter

• Modern styling, LED lighting, strong visual road presence.
• Mixed materials: steel chassis with lightweight paneling.
• Premium-feel paintwork and soft-touch interior surfaces.
• Panel alignment and finish quality are surprisingly refined for a first-gen entry.

Durability Score

• Hilux Revo: ★★★★★
• T9 Hunter: ★★★★☆

Takeaway: Toyota’s long-term durability is unmatched, but the JAC looks and feels modern—ideal for buyers prioritizing aesthetics and cabin refinement.

Powertrain and Performance: Torque Wars

Toyota Hilux Revo

• Engine: 2.8L turbo diesel, 201 hp / 500 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic / manual
• Fuel Economy: 10-11 km/l highway

Smooth torque delivery, exceptional low-end grunt

JAC T9 Hunter

• Engine: 2.0L turbo diesel, ~168 hp / 410 Nm
• Transmission: 8-speed ZF automatic
• Fuel Economy: 12-13 km/l highway

More refined shifting, less punch under load

Scenario Test: Highway Overtake with Load Both trucks were loaded with 500 kg and pushed to overtake on the GT Road. The Hilux surged forward effortlessly; the T9 hesitated before building speed.

Performance Score

• Hilux Revo: ★★★★★
• T9 Hunter: ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Hilux still owns the torque game, especially under heavy payloads. The JAC compensates with transmission smoothness and slightly better efficiency.

Off-Road Capability: Pakistan’s Natural Playground

Toyota Hilux Revo

• Ground Clearance: 310 mm
• Approach/Departure: 29° / 26°
• Standard rear-locking differential
• Tested extensively in Thar, Skardu, Murree

JAC T9 Hunter

• Ground Clearance: ~220 mm
• Approach/Departure: 25° / 21°
• Rear locking diff included; lacks crawl control
• Moderate clearance limits rough terrain performance

Scenario Test: Mountain Trail to Kalam Valley. The Hilux navigated steep, muddy ridges with ease. The Hunter needed careful approach angles to avoid underbody hits.

Off-Road Score

• Hilux Revo: ★★★★★
• T9 Hunter: ★★★★☆

Payload and Bed Utility: Workhorse DNA

Toyota Hilux Revo

• Max Payload: ~1,000 kg
• Bed Size: 1,525 mm x 1,540 mm
• Tailgate assist, rugged liner support, and 3rd-party racks are widely available

JAC T9 Hunter

• Max Payload: ~880 kg
• Bed Size: Slightly smaller
• Factory spray-in liner, fewer aftermarket add-ons

Scenario Test: Loading Construction Supplies in Multan Hilux efficiently handled full cement bags and steel rods. The Hunter’s lower tailgate height helped with the ease of loading, but the smaller payload required a second trip.

Payload Score

• Hilux Revo: ★★★★★
• T9 Hunter: ★★★☆☆

Interior Comfort & Technology: Rugged vs Refined

Toyota Hilux Revo

• Durable materials, leather seats in top trims
• 8-inch touchscreen, basic backup camera
• Analog cluster, decent insulation

JAC T9 Hunter

• Leatherette upholstery, ventilated seats
• Massive 10.4-inch infotainment screen
• Fully digital instrument cluster, sunroof, wireless charging
• Feels like a crossover SUV inside

City Driving Test: Navigating Lahore’s Traffic The T9 Hunter delivered a smoother ride and tech-savvy experience. Hilux felt functional but dated in comparison.

Comfort & Tech Score

• Hilux Revo: ★★★☆☆
• T9 Hunter: ★★★★★

Service Network and Parts Availability

Toyota Hilux Revo

• Unrivaled parts access across Pakistan
• Local mechanics trained for Hilux repairs
• Strong resale value

JAC T9 Hunter

• Limited dealer/service coverage (as of mid-2025)
• Parts may require import delays
• Risk of lower resale value due to market infancy

Contractor Feedback Rashid, a builder in Rawalpindi: “If something breaks on the Hilux, I get it fixed the same day. The JAC? I might be waiting a week for a part.”

Ownership Score

Hilux Revo: ★★★★★

T9 Hunter: ★★★☆☆

Recommended Accessories from Autostore.pk

To get the most out of your pickup, we recommend these work-and-play car accessories available at Autostore.pk.

Top Toyota Hilux Revo Accessories:

• Heavy-duty bed liner
• Rollbar + cargo cage
• Off-road fog lights
• Snorkel intake kit
• Rearview camera upgrade

Top JAC T9 Hunter Accessories:

• Rooftop cargo tent
• Dashcam with GPS
• All-weather floor mats
• Skid plates for underbody protection
• Digital tire pressure monitor system (TPMS)

Real-World Use Case Recommendations

Business Owners & Contractors

Go for the Toyota Hilux Revo. Proven strength, parts everywhere, and better payload.

Urban Pickup Enthusiasts & Tech Lovers

Try the JAC T9 Hunter. Great for city cruising with high comfort and a premium feel.

Adventure Tourers Heading to the North

Stick with Hilux. Its off-road DNA and serviceability win.

Weekend Explorers or Lifestyle Truck Buyers

The JAC T9 is a stylish and affordable alternative with sufficient capability for light off-roading.

Final Thoughts

The JAC T9 Hunter in Pakistan represents a significant attempt to disrupt the pickup truck hierarchy. It excels in areas Toyota hasn’t prioritized—tech, comfort, and urban appeal. But it still lags in areas that matter most to Pakistani professionals: durability, parts availability, and load-carrying capacity.

This isn’t a clear knockout. It’s a JAC T9 Hunter vs Toyota Hilux Revo bout that highlights two very different pickup philosophies. Choose what fits your lifestyle, not just your driveway.

For more in-depth reviews and upgrades, visit Autostore.pk Blog – the ultimate Car Blog Pakistan readers trust for honest pickup analysis.