WHEN the Jetour T2 arrived in Malaysia earlier this year, it introduced buyers to a rugged, adventure-ready sports utility vehicle (SUV) with an obvious Land Rover Defender-inspired styling.
Now comes its slightly smaller sibling, the T1, bringing much of the same visual appeal but with a more urban-focused personality.
The timing could not be better.
Boxy SUVs are trending but buyers shopping below RM200,000 have few options.
At RM146,800, the locally assembled T1 2.0 TGDi XWD occupies a niche almost entirely on its own.
Also available in the lineup is the T1 1.5L TGDi 2WD variant priced from RM129,800.
Our first drive took place during a media trip from Kuala Lumpur to Terengganu, covering highways, winding roads and less-than-perfect surfaces.
The drive also included visits to Pulihara, where we witnessed the release of fresh sea turtle hatchlings, and the Turtle Conservation Society, which focuses on river terrapin conservation.
The visits form part of Jetour’s wider ESG and social responsibility efforts, providing a welcome non-motoring dimension to the journey.
After spending time behind the wheel, it is clear the T1 2.0 TGDi XWD is more than a styling exercise.
Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 245PS and 375Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and Jetour’s XWD intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
Performance is good without feeling intimidating, with smooth, progressive acceleration making overtaking effortless while remaining refined during highway cruising.
Despite its upright proportions and boxy appearance, the T1 drives more like a modern crossover than a traditional off-roader.
Its monocoque construction gives it good composure through corners.
There is naturally some body roll due to its height but it remains controlled and never untidy.
Typical of vehicles riding on 19-inch wheels, the T1 is sensitive to tyre pressures.
With the recommended settings, the wheels and suspension deliver an assuring blend of compliance and body control, soaking up most road imperfections while remaining planted at faster speeds.
The steering is light and easy to manage around town but could do with more feedback at highway speeds.
Even so, the T1 remains largely comfortable for cross-country drives.
The cabin gives an equally favourable impression.
Double-glazed windows all around help create a surprisingly refined environment by suppressing outside noise, allowing occupants to hold conversations comfortably even at highway speeds.
Fit and finish are better than expected for its price point, with soft-touch materials, metallic accents and sturdy switchgear giving the interior an upmarket feel.
The 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen is responsive, while the Sony nine-speaker sound system delivers crisp, well-balanced audio.
Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom courtesy of the 2,800mm wheelbase.
The powered front passenger seat with extendable leg rest is an unexpected touch that adds extra comfort on longer journeys.
Although our drive included some sandy stretches in Terengganu, it was not an off-road test.
Still, the T1 offers considerable capability beyond its rugged appearance.
Alongside Eco, Normal and Sport modes, the XWD system offers settings for Snow, Mud, Sand and Rock, complemented by Crawl Control, 200mm of ground clearance and a 600mm wading depth.
Safety is comprehensive, with a five-star Asean NCAP rating, six airbags, a Level 2 advanced driver assistance suite and a useful 540-degree camera system.
First impressions suggest Jetour has split its niche well.
Instead of trying to outdo the more adventure-focused T2, the T1 offers a friendlier interpretation of the boxy SUV formula.
It delivers the commanding looks buyers want while offering the comfort and refinement expected of a modern family crossover.
For those attracted to the styling but who do not need the bigger engine or all-wheel drive, the T1 1.5 TGDi 2WD provides a more affordable entry point at RM129,800.
The 2.0 TGDi XWD tested here, at RM146,800, adds more performance, equipment and all-terrain capability.
Both versions give Jetour a useful foothold in a niche that offer very few alternatives.
