The Jetour T2, an off-road focused SUV with clear design inspiration from the iconic Land Rover Defender, is set to make its debut in South Africa in the second quarter of 2025. The Chery-owned brand showcased the T2 alongside the all-new T1 at the Travel Worldwide Global Conference in Fuzhou, China, last week. These rugged SUVs will expand Jetour’s presence in South Africa, following the introduction of the Jetour Dashing and X70 Plus.
After 2025, Jetour plans to further grow its local lineup with the T5 and T7 models, the latter being amphibious, as well as the P5 bakkie. This aggressive push into the South African market underscores Jetour’s ambitions to offer a diverse range of SUVs and utility vehicles.
Jetour T2: A Defender-Inspired Off-Roader
The T2, which has seen remarkable success globally since its launch, reports sales of 229,813 units within the first year. Jetour’s direct competitor to the GWM Tank 300, the T2, will initially be offered in four variants. The entry-level Momentum and Deluxe trims will feature the 1.5 T-GDI engine, which is already well-established within the Chery family. However, the T2 will offer enhanced power, with outputs raised from 115 kW/230 Nm to 135 kW/290 Nm, directed to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
At the top of the range, the 2.0 T-GDI engine will deliver impressive performance figures of 187 kW and 390 Nm, the same outputs as the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max. The T2’s higher trims will come with an eight-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, and buyers will have the option of front-wheel drive or an all-wheel-drive (XWD) system. The XWD models will feature locking center and rear differentials, seven driving modes, and an impressive 220mm of ground clearance across all variants.
Off-Road Prowess: Built for Adventure
While local specifications are still being finalized, the T2’s off-road capability is already shaping up to be competitive. The SUV will lack a low-range transfer case but will feature notable off-road credentials, including a 28-degree approach angle, an 18-degree breakover angle, and a 30-degree departure angle. Additionally, the T2 will come equipped with an active torque vectoring system, further enhancing its off-road prowess.
The T2’s dimensions include a length of 4,785mm, a width of 2,006mm, and a height of 1,880mm, with a 2,800mm wheelbase. It will offer seating for five, making it a practical choice for adventurous families or those who frequently explore rugged terrains.
Jetour T1: Another Rugged SUV on the Horizon
Meanwhile, the Jetour T1, first shown as a concept at the Beijing Auto Show in April, is slated for a fourth-quarter arrival in 2025. The T1 will also feature a 1.5 T-GDI engine, producing 125 kW of power and 270 Nm of torque, sent to the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The higher-end 2.0 T-GDI engine, producing 180 kW and 375 Nm, will be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the XWD system. The T1 will also be available as a plug-in hybrid in 2026.
T1: Compact and Capable
With a slightly more compact design than the T2, the T1 measures 4,705mm long, 1,967mm wide, and 1,843mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,810mm. The T1 will also offer impressive off-road capabilities, with an approach angle of 28 degrees, a breakover angle of 17 degrees, and a departure angle of 28 degrees. Like the T2, the T1 will come with eight driving modes on XWD models and an electronic limited-slip differential.
Jetour’s Future in South Africa
Both the T2 and T1 promise to provide a thrilling driving experience, with a combination of modern technology and rugged off-road capability. As Jetour continues to expand its portfolio in South Africa, these two SUVs are expected to play a key role in the brand’s quest to capture a significant share of the off-road market. With the introduction of the T5 and T7 models, as well as the P5 bakkie, Jetour’s future in South Africa looks bright, offering a versatile range of vehicles that cater to a variety of tastes and needs.
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