A new Chinese car is entering the South African market, though it may not be instantly recognisable. Jetour, a subsidiary of the Chery Automotive Group, has announced ambitious plans to introduce at least seven new models in the country over the next two years.
However, some of these vehicles won’t come directly from the Jetour main brand but rather from its sub-division, Shanhai, which specialises in new-energy vehicles. This means that while the cars are technically from Shanhai, they will likely be rebadged and sold under the Jetour name in South Africa, following a strategy similar to Omoda’s repackaging of the Exeed RX as the Omoda C9.
Jetour’s Upcoming Models for South Africa
Two new Shanhai models are confirmed for South Africa:
- Jetour T5 – Arriving in 2026
- Jetour P5 – Arriving in 2027
Despite these models being developed under the Shanhai sub-brand, Jetour did not mention “Shanhai” in its official launch announcement, meaning they will likely carry Jetour badges instead.
Jetour T5 – Hybrid Adventure SUV
The T5 will be one of several new 4×4 SUVs targeted at South Africa’s growing adventure vehicle market. Unlike other Jetour T-series SUVs, which run on conventional petrol engines, the T5 will feature a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system.
- Powertrain: 2.0-litre turbo petrol + two electric motors
- Power Output: Up to 560kW
- Torque: 795Nm
- Size: Approx. 5,400mm (similar to Nissan Patrol or Toyota Land Cruiser 300)
While full battery specifications and electric range have not yet been revealed, the T5’s PHEV setup suggests a focus on efficiency and power.
Jetour P5 – The First Jetour Bakkie
The P5 is Jetour’s first-ever bakkie, set to compete with established midsize pickups like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux.
- Powertrain: PHEV (details yet to be disclosed)
- Market Position: Mid-size bakkie segment
- Expected Design: Likely inspired by Jetour’s larger Zongheng F700 pickup
Although technical details are scarce, Jetour’s Zongheng division previously showcased a larger F700 pickup in China, which provides a possible glimpse into the P5’s design language.
Future Possibilities – The Jetour L6
Another model from Shanhai, the L6, could eventually make its way to South Africa. This PHEV version of the Jetour Dashing SUV is already available in China, and if introduced locally, it could become South Africa’s most affordable PHEV.
- Current Most Affordable PHEV: BMW X1 30e – Priced at R1,050,000
- Potential Jetour L6 Price: Estimated between R600,000 – R800,000
Key Features of Jetour T5 & P5
| Feature | Jetour T5 (SUV) | Jetour P5 (Bakkie) |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | PHEV (2.0L Turbo + Electric Motors) | PHEV (Details TBA) |
| Power Output | Up to 560kW | TBA |
| Torque | 795Nm | TBA |
| Electric Range | TBA | TBA |
| Size | Approx. 5,400mm | Mid-size |
| Market Segment | Adventure SUV | Midsize Bakkie |
| Arrival Date | 2026 | 2027 |
New Chinese Car: Jetour’s Bold Move into South Africa
Jetour’s expansion into South Africa signals growing competition in the SUV and bakkie segments, particularly with PHEV powertrains offering a mix of performance and efficiency. While detailed specifications remain limited, the upcoming Jetour T5 and P5 could offer more affordable hybrid options in a market traditionally dominated by Toyota, Ford, and Nissan.
Would you consider buying a Jetour hybrid SUV or bakkie when they launch in South Africa?
Related article: South Africa’s Fastest-Growing Chinese Car Brands
