Intro: A Strategic Pause
From July 1, 2025, JAC Motors Pakistan will temporarily suspend bookings for its much-hyped T9 Hunter pickup truck. The decision, announced by Ghandhara Automobiles, comes amid a tidal wave of customer interest. To maintain delivery timelines and service standards, the company is choosing to focus on fulfilling existing orders before reopening sales.
Overwhelming First Response
Launched in early 2025 to challenge established favorites like the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max, the T9 Hunter immediately captured hearts. It offers a 2.0 L turbo-diesel engine (168 hp, 410 Nm), 8-speed automatic transmission, 4×4 drive, a luxurious 10.4-inch infotainment system, sunroof, and robust safety features. The upsurge in bookings was so strong that GAL first paused sales on January 15, 2025, owing to “overwhelming response”.
Price Adjustments & Booking Milestones
Initially priced at Rs 9.75 million, the ex-showroom cost was raised twice: first to Rs 10.25 million in January, then to Rs 10.5 million in February. With new bookings reopening on February 15, 2025, customers could secure a slot with a Rs 2.5 million deposit, excluding CVT and withholding taxes.
Why Such High Demand?
Buyers are drawn to the T9 Hunter for its powerful drivetrain, premium interior, and wallet-friendly pricing, entering the mid-size pickup battle at a compelling value compared to bigger rivals. As one analyst put it, “Packed with powerful performance, tech-rich interior, and top safety features… pre-bookings exceeded expectations”.
What This Means for the Market
This booking suspension sends a clear message: Pakistani consumers are embracing Chinese automotive brands when they offer compelling specs and strong service. The T9 Hunter’s popularity underlines shifting preferences—local buyers are willing to explore non-Japanese brands, especially when aftermarket support is solid.
What’s Next?
For interested buyers, the updated booking plan is:
- Bookings resume on July 1, 2025 (date may shift based on order backlog).
- Price lock only applies once the Rs 2.5m deposit is paid.
- Delivery timelines will depend on when the booking is placed—expect a few months’ wait due to backlog.
GAL is expected to reopen bookings only when current orders have been processed and its delivery network can match service expectations.
Final Takeaway
The temporary suspension of T9 Hunter bookings reflects both its strong market performance and Ghandhara’s commitment to quality. Buyers should stay alert: deposits made before the cutoff ensure price protection, but fresh slots may require patience.
Join the Conversation
Will the T9 Hunter redefine the pickup segment in Pakistan? Did you manage to book one before the pause? Drop your thoughts and experiences below!
