Jetour T-series launches in Mzansi with adventure-ready attitude
Jetour, the Chinese brand under the Chery Group, is growing its local lineup with the new T-Series, and this time, it’s going for something a little bolder. Unlike its current family-focused SUVs, the T1 and T2 bring a tougher, more adventure-ready attitude to the mix.
Both models are clearly aimed at South Africans who love the outdoors, and honestly, it’s refreshing to see Jetour push beyond its ‘value-for-money family SUV’ image.
The T1 feels like the city dweller of the two, compact, versatile, and perfect for those weekend escapes that involve a bit of gravel. It measures 4,705mm long, 1,967mm wide, and 1,843mm high, with 190mm of ground clearance.
The T2, meanwhile, is the proper adventurer. It’s a little bigger, tougher-looking, and built to handle more serious off-road work, thanks to a higher ride height and chunkier stance. At 4,785mm long, 2,006mm wide, and 1,880mm tall, it’s only slightly smaller than a Defender 110, and that says a lot about its intent.
The T1 range offers four trims. The Edge and Aspire models get a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with 125kW and 270Nm, paired with a 2WD setup, ideal for everyday driving. Step up to the Xplora or Odyssey, and you get 4WD capability along with a bigger 2.0-litre turbo-petrol pushing out 180kW and 375Nm. The T2 lineup is a little simpler, with three variants: the Aspire (2WD) and two 4WD options; Xplora and Odyssey, both sharing the same powertrains as the T1. The entire T1 and T2 range uses a 7-speed DCT transmission.
Feature-wise, the T1 comes equipped with a massive 15.6-inch infotainment screen, dual-layer soundproof glass, and a premium Sony sound system. There’s also a 540-degree panoramic camera setup, rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring, and full LED lighting, including fog lights, auto headlights, electrically adjustable heated mirrors, roof racks, and privacy glass.
The T2, on the other hand, keeps the premium feel going with features like 540-degree panoramic cameras, rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring, and full LED lighting all around. Depending on the model, you also get electrically adjustable heated mirrors, roof racks, privacy glass, illuminated door sills, and even a space-saver spare wheel.
All in all, the T-Series marks an important step for Jetour in Mzansi. It’s a clear sign that the brand wants to be taken seriously, not just as a ‘budget-friendly’ option, but as a contender in the adventure SUV space. With the T1 catering to urban explorers and the T2 ready for those who like to take the road less travelled, Jetour now has something for both worlds, and honestly, it’s exciting to see a newcomer bring this much confidence and character to the fold.
Pricing
- T1 Edge: R514,900
- T1 Aspire: R544,900
- T1 Xplora: R594,900
- T1 Odyssey: R634,900
- T2 Aspire: R569,900
- T2 Xplora: R639,900
- T2 Odyssey: R679,900
