The Jetour Dashing exudes confidence, and its bold styling underscores this character. With a design that turns heads and undeniable curb appeal, the Dashing makes a compelling first impression. We had the opportunity to experience it firsthand at the Jetour South Africa launch event, and the results are in. Here’s how the Dashing measures up in terms of performance, style, and features.
A Stylish Entry into South Africa’s SUV Market
Living up to its name, the Jetour Dashing is a fashionable SUV that makes an impressive debut in South Africa alongside its sibling, the X70 Plus. At first glance, the Dashing’s sharp and modern aesthetics set it apart, offering a bold grille, sleek LED headlights, and an aerodynamic body. These design elements lend it undeniable curb appeal.
Priced at under R500,000 at the time of review, the Dashing offers a lot for the money, making it an attractive proposition in the compact SUV segment. But the question remains: does its performance live up to the promise of its striking design?
Under the Bonnet: Power and Practicality
The Jetour Dashing is equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 115kW of power and 230Nm of torque. This engine configuration is paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and channels power to the front wheels. Such a setup is common in many Chery Group vehicles, ensuring familiarity and reliability.
This powertrain is well-suited for urban driving, offering smooth acceleration and consistent performance. While the Dashing may not be built for high-speed thrills, it delivers enough power to handle city commutes and occasional highway trips with ease.
Fuel Efficiency and Driving Dynamics
The Dashing offers a claimed fuel consumption of 7.8L/100km, which is reasonable for a vehicle in this segment. With a kerb weight of 1588kg, it strikes a balance between being light enough for nimble handling and robust enough to provide stability on the road.
While official 0-100km/h acceleration figures aren’t available, the Dashing feels composed and capable during typical driving scenarios. It’s not a performance SUV, but it doesn’t need to be. Instead, it prioritizes practicality and comfort, making it a suitable option for those who value efficiency and reliability.
A Feature-Rich Offering
One of the Jetour Dashing’s biggest selling points is its extensive list of features, which make it stand out in its price range. Here’s an overview of the key highlights:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 115kW and 230Nm of torque |
| Transmission | 6-speed dual-clutch transmission |
| Fuel Economy | Claimed 7.8L/100km |
| Kerb Weight | 1588kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats with spacious interior |
| Infotainment System | High-resolution touchscreen with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) |
| Safety Features | ABS, EBD, airbags, rear parking sensors, and reversing camera |
| Exterior Design | Bold grille, sleek LED headlights, and aerodynamic body |
| Interior Comfort | Premium upholstery, adjustable seats, and ample legroom |
| Price | Under R500,000 at the time of publication |
These features highlight the Dashing’s focus on value, providing a balance of modern tech, comfort, and practicality. Its spacious interior and premium materials add a touch of luxury, while safety features like ABS, EBD, and multiple airbags offer peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Verdict: Stylish with Substance?
The Jetour Dashing impresses on multiple fronts. Its modern and bold design, coupled with a feature-rich interior, makes it a strong contender in South Africa’s competitive SUV market. While it’s not a high-performance vehicle, it offers sufficient power and comfort for everyday use, making it an ideal choice for families, commuters, and style-conscious buyers.
At its price point, the Dashing delivers exceptional value, combining aesthetics with practicality in a way that few competitors can match. Whether you’re navigating city streets or heading out for a weekend getaway, the Jetour Dashing proves you don’t have to sacrifice style for functionality.
If you’re in the market for a fashionable, well-equipped, and reasonably priced SUV, the Jetour Dashing is undoubtedly worth considering. It’s a bold first step for Jetour in South Africa, and the future looks bright for this newcomer.
Related article: Jetour Drives into South Africa: Two Striking SUVs Launch Independent from Chery
