Jetour, the latest sub-brand of Chinese automaker Chery, has quickly made a name for itself in the South African automotive market. Recently launched as Chery’s third sub-label in the country, Jetour is carving its niche with a range of vehicles that stand out in both design and affordability. While Chery’s main brand, along with its Omoda and Jaecoo sub-labels, share a similar design language, Jetour’s first two models, the Dashing and the X70 Plus, present a contrast in style, with the X70 Plus offering something distinct in its segment.
Design Differences: The X70 Plus vs. Chery Tiggo Pro Models
The Jetour X70 Plus carries a design that may remind some of the Chery Tiggo Pro family. While its larger sibling, the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, is aimed at a more premium market, the X70 Plus manages to offer similar dimensions and presence without the hefty price tag. However, where the X70 Plus excels is in its size and practicality, making it a great choice for those in need of a seven-seater.
Seven-Seater Advantage: Spacious and Affordable
One of the biggest selling points of the Jetour X70 Plus is its seating capacity. As the only other seven-seater in the Chery stable besides the high-end Tiggo 8 Pro, the X70 Plus offers a unique proposition in the South African market. Priced starting at R454,900 for the Momentum variant and R484,900 for the Deluxe, the X70 Plus slots neatly into an underserved segment.
While competitors like the Suzuki Ertiga, Honda BR-V, and Mitsubishi Xpander offer affordable yet basic seven-seater options, they lack the refinement and features of the X70 Plus. On the other end of the spectrum, pricier models like the VW Tiguan Allspace and Toyota Fortuner cater to those looking for more premium offerings but at a much higher price point.
Bigger and Better: How the X70 Plus Stacks Up
The Jetour X70 Plus is also noticeably larger than some of its rivals. With a length of 4,724mm, the X70 Plus is 224mm longer than the Hyundai Grand Creta, its closest competitor. This size advantage translates into more generous rear legroom, making the X70 Plus a more comfortable choice for passengers in the back. Additionally, the entry-level price for the Grand Creta is R65,000 higher than that of the Jetour X70 Plus, further tipping the scales in favor of Jetour for budget-conscious families.
Performance and Engine
Under the hood, both variants of the Jetour X70 Plus are powered by Chery’s well-established 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, delivering 115kW of power and 130Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, sending power to the front wheels. While it may not be the most powerful engine in its class, it strikes a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, particularly for a family vehicle of this size.
Impressive Sales and Future Potential
Since its debut in South Africa in September, Jetour has already impressed with its sales figures, moving 568 units of the Dashing and X70 Plus in October alone. With the X70 Plus offering a compelling mix of space, value, and features, it looks set to capture the attention of South African buyers looking for a practical, budget-friendly seven-seater option.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Families
The Jetour X70 Plus presents an exciting opportunity for South African car buyers seeking a spacious and affordable seven-seater. With its impressive size, competitive pricing, and strong performance, the X70 Plus stands out as a strong contender in the budget SUV segment. Whether you’re looking for a family car with room to spare or a vehicle that doesn’t break the bank, the Jetour X70 Plus offers a solid choice for those in need of a budget-friendly, seven-seater SUV.
Related article: Jetour Drives into South Africa: Two Striking SUVs Launch Independent from Chery
