Global demand for hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles continues to accelerate as motorists search for a balance between fuel efficiency, long-distance practicality and reduced emissions. While fully electric vehicles continue gaining traction, many consumers are increasingly drawn to hybrid technology because it removes the anxiety around charging infrastructure while still delivering lower fuel consumption and improved efficiency.
Jetour South Africa is positioning itself squarely within this growing segment with the introduction of the new Jetour T1 i-DM, a plug-in hybrid SUV that combines electrified performance with rugged SUV capability and premium comfort.
According to Vice President of Jetour South Africa, Nic Campbell, the T1 i-DM expands the appeal of the existing T1 range by integrating intelligent hybrid technology without sacrificing versatility or driving character.
“The Jetour T1 i-DM builds on the success of the Jetour T1 by adding intelligent hybrid technology without compromising its rugged character, comfort or capability. It’s designed to give customers more choice, without forcing a trade-off between performance, efficiency and versatility,” says Campbell.
Visually, the T1 i-DM adopts a bold and modern SUV design language. Its square proportions, muscular stance and smoother body contours create a strong adventure-focused appearance while maintaining an urban-friendly presence. Exterior highlights include a large front grille, storm-eye LED headlights and a horizontal illuminated grille light strip that reinforces the vehicle’s futuristic styling.
Additional features such as LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, 19-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, privacy glass and a panoramic glass sunroof further contribute to the SUV’s premium positioning. Jetour has also included practical touches like an electric tailgate, projection logo mirrors and a towbar to strengthen the vehicle’s everyday usability.
Under the bonnet, the T1 i-DM combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged hybrid-dedicated petrol engine with a plug-in hybrid system, a 1DHT Dedicated Hybrid Transmission and Jetour’s intelligent Hybrid i-DM technology. Together, the system produces a combined 250kW and 530Nm of torque, giving the SUV strong performance figures alongside improved efficiency.
The electric motor alone delivers 150kW and 310Nm, helping the T1 i-DM achieve a top speed exceeding 180km/h. Efficiency remains a major focus, with claimed fuel consumption as low as 1.1L/100km and CO₂ emissions of only 25g/km.
The plug-in hybrid setup also provides a combined driving range of up to 1 200km, while allowing for an electric-only driving range of up to 100km under NEDC testing conditions. Power comes from an 18.4kWh battery pack capable of DC fast charging from 30% to 80% in approximately 27 minutes. AC charging from 30% to full capacity takes roughly three hours.
Beyond efficiency, the T1 i-DM has been developed to retain genuine SUV capability. It offers 190mm of ground clearance and a wading depth of 600mm, making it suitable for both urban driving and light off-road excursions. Intelligent systems such as Hill Descent Control, Crawl Control Mode and XWD intelligent four-wheel-drive technology further enhance its all-terrain credentials.
Drivers can also tailor the driving experience through selectable modes including Normal, Sport, Snow and Eco, alongside dedicated EV and HEV operating modes.
Dimensionally, the SUV commands a substantial road presence. Measuring 4 705mm long, 1 967mm wide and 1 843mm high, with a 2 800mm wheelbase, the T1 i-DM places a strong emphasis on passenger comfort and interior space.
Practicality also remains a priority. The luggage compartment offers 574 litres of cargo capacity, expanding to 1 455 litres with the rear seats folded flat. A towing capacity of up to 1 600kg further broadens the SUV’s versatility for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Inside the cabin, Jetour has focused heavily on comfort and technology. Black synthetic leather seats with orange stitching create a premium-inspired atmosphere, while ventilated front seats, driver seat memory, lumbar support and a passenger leg rest aim to improve long-distance comfort.
The interior is further enhanced by dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting and a heating and cooling centre console system.
Technology plays a central role in the T1 i-DM experience. A 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster dominate the dashboard, while a Snapdragon 8155 smart chip powers the system’s connectivity and processing capabilities.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, voice control functionality and smart integration features are all included, alongside premium additions such as 50W wireless charging and a nine-speaker Sony sound system.
Safety equipment is equally comprehensive. The SUV includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning and active emergency braking systems.
Additional driver assistance technologies include rear cross traffic alert, a 540-degree panoramic camera system, front and rear parking sensors, electronic stability control and tyre pressure monitoring.
Jetour is also reinforcing long-term ownership confidence through an extensive warranty and service package. The T1 i-DM is sold with a seven-year or 200 000km vehicle warranty, a seven-year or 75 000km service plan, an eight-year or 160 000km battery warranty and a 10-year or one million kilometre engine warranty.
Priced from R689 900, the new plug-in hybrid SUV is available in Onyx Black, Glacier White, Titan Silver, Aqua Green and Sand Gold.
