There’s a new kid on the block in the South African family SUV segment, and it’s making a proper racket. Jetour, the Chinese brand that only landed in the country a couple of years back, has already become one of the fastest-growing names on the local automotive scene, and their latest offering—the Jetour T1 i-DM plug-in hybrid (PHEV)—is set to accelerate that momentum even further.
It’s a story of rapid growth. Since launching in September 2024, Jetour has expanded its dealer network to over 55 dealerships nationwide, supported by a digital-first parts warehouse in Midrand designed to keep vehicles on the road and owners smiling. The brand’s sales figures have shot through the roof, with 2 020 units sold in May 2026 alone, capturing roughly 5,5% of the country’s total passenger vehicle sales and cementing its spot in the top ten best-selling brands. It’s an impressive ascent for a brand that was essentially an unknown entity just a few short years ago.
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Now, they’re taking their popular, boxy T1 and giving it a serious dose of electrification. Priced from R689 900, the Jetour T1 i-DM is the range-topping derivative of the T-Series, and it’s arrived with a mission to offer a compelling blend of tech, space, and fuel efficiency.
At its heart, the T1 i-DM pairs a 1,5-litre turbo-charged petrol engine, which on its own produces 110 kW and 220 Nm of torque, with an 18,4-kWh lithium battery powering a single electric motor. The result is a combined system output of a hefty 250 kW and 530 Nm of torque; all sent to the front wheels. This translates to a 0-100 km/h sprint of around 8,5 seconds, which is genuinely brisk for a family SUV of this size and weight.
While I was romanced by the T1 I had on test back in December, I am rather in lust with this version that properly uses the battery power to do away with the slightly sluggish pickup of the pure petrol – to say nothing of dramatically reducing the fuel consumption.The hybrid system adds genuine performance rather than just offering a token nod to economy. It seems Jetour has sorted out the twitchy throttle calibration that has plagued some Chinese imports, with power coming on in a predictable and user-friendly manner.
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Inside, the T1 i-DM is a tech-forward haven. The cabin is dominated by a massive 15,6-inch infotainment screen that’s crisp, intuitive, and big enough to make you feel like you’re piloting a spaceship. This is complemented by a 10,25-inch digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, a 540-degree camera system and a premium Sony audio system.
The interior fit and finish mean it feels decently premium rather than just having added spec. There’s ample space for five occupants, 574 litres of luggage room with the rear seats up, and thoughtful touches like a cooled centre armrest. It’s a far cry from the budget interiors of old.
The headline benefit of the T1 i-DM is, of course, its fuel efficiency. Jetour claims a pure-electric range of up to 100 km and a combined fuel consumption figure as low as 1,1 l/100 km when the battery is regularly juiced up. Combined with a 70-litre fuel tank, the T1 has a claimed total range of over 1 200 km, which is a serious selling point for those who hate frequent stops at the filling station.
However, there is a reality check. In the real world, the electric range is more realistically pegged at around 75 km, depending on driving style and the weather. This is still more than enough for most daily commutes, but it highlights the critical caveat: you must plug the thing in to reap the savings.
Simply, if you’re not going to plug it in, buy a normal petrol car.
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For many South African buyers, the big question marks around Chinese brands have traditionally been after-sales support, parts availability, and long-term resale value. Jetour appears to be taking this seriously.
The company backs the T1 i-DM with a comprehensive ownership package that includes a 7-year / 200 000 km vehicle warranty, a 7-year / 75 000 km service plan, an 8-year / 160 000 km battery warranty and a 10-year / 1-million km engine warranty.
They've also got the dealer network and parts supply chain to back it up, having achieved a 98% parts availability rate and winning Gold Status in the NADA Dealer Satisfaction Index.
CHANGECARS has been tracking the T-Series’ rise and the brand’s push into electrified models, and it’s clear that Jetour is positioning itself as a serious contender in the market. The T1 i-DM’s value proposition is compelling: a tech-laden, spacious, efficient SUV at a price that undercuts some of its mainstream rivals. For buyers wanting to lower their daily fuel bills without going full electric, it’s a compelling package.
But as always, the bottom line is that buyers must be realistic about their charging habits, dealer support and long-term ownership costs. The Jetour T1 i-DM is a bold, well-spec’d PHEV that delivers on its promises, but only if you’re willing to plug it in.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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