Last year, on a trip to Fuzhou, China, we had the opportunity to drive the Jetour T1 and T2 models, which were destined for the South African market. It may have taken 12 months, but these models have finally arrived in South Africa.
Related: Jetour Auto introduces the T1 and T2 models
The Jetour T1 and T2 are both rugged-styled SUVs from Jetour, but they are positioned for slightly different buyers, with the T2 generally being the more premium and off-road focused model. These are the primary differences between the two models that are now available locally.
Jetour T1 and T2 range launched in South Africa
Key Differences
| Feature | Jetour T1 (More Urban/Compact) | Jetour T2 (More Rugged/Premium) | Key Difference |
| Primary Focus | Urban-friendly, stylish, and value-focused compact SUV. | Off-road capable, adventure-ready, and more luxurious SUV. | T2 is more rugged and premium. |
| Dimensions | Slightly smaller in length, width, and height. | Longer, wider, and taller (e.g., T2 is ~79mm longer). | T2 is physically larger. |
| Ground Clearance | 190-200 mm | 200-220 mm | T2 has better ground clearance for off-roading |
| Off-road Capability | Standard off-road features, suitable for mild trails. | Enhanced off-road specs (better approach/departure angles, deeper water wading). | T2 is more capable off-road. |
| Exterior Styling | Cleaner, more urban rear-end; may feature a cleaner hatch. | More robust look; often features a tailgate-mounted spare wheel (a common off-road design cue). | T2 looks more "hardcore." |
| Premium Features | Good level of features. | More luxurious features like a 12-speaker Sony audio system, more extensive ambient lighting, and sometimes more advanced seating options. | T2 offers more luxury and tech. |
Jetour T1 vs. T2 Engine Comparison
| Feature | Jetour T1 (Urban/Compact SUV) | Jetour T2 (Rugged/Off-Road SUV) |
| Engine Options | 1.5-litre turbo petrol | 1.5-litre turbo petrol |
| 2.0-litre turbo petrol | 2.0-litre turbo petrol | |
| Performance (1.5) | 125kW / 270Nm | 125kW / 270Nm |
| Performance (2.0L) | 180kW / 375Nm | 180kW / 375Nm |
| Drivetrain | 1.5L is FWD (Front-wheel drive) | The single model currently available is FWD |
| 2.0L is 4WD (Four-wheel drive) | 2.0L is 4WD | |
| Transmission | 7-speed DCT (Dual-clutch transmission) | 7-speed DCT |
| Off-Road modes | Fewer dedicated off-road driving modes. | More extensive off-road modes (e.g., Snow, Mud, Sand, Rock, X Smart Mode). |
Pricing
| Model | Engine/Trim | Price (R) |
| Jetour T1 | 1.5T Edge | R 514 900 |
| Jetour T1 | 1.5T Aspire | R 544 900 |
| Jetour T2 | 1.5T Aspire | R 569 900 |
| Jetour T1 | 2.0T Xplora XWD | R 594 900 |
| Jetour T1 | 2.0T Odyssey XWD | R 634 900 |
| Jetour T2 | 2.0T Xplora XWD | R 639 900 |
| Jetour T2 | 2.0T Odyssey XWD | R 679 900 |
In conclusion
The Jetour T1 is designed as a stylish, smart, and efficient compact SUV that is very practical for daily driving and city use, while still offering a rugged look.
The Jetour T2 is a larger, more premium, and more capable off-road vehicle with higher ground clearance, better angles, and more luxury features in the cabin.
If you are looking for an affordable, stylish urban SUV, the T1 is a great choice. If your priority is a more robust build, better off-road performance, and a higher level of luxury, the T2 would be the better fit.
