Jetour South Africa News

SUVs are no longer a niche choice in South Africa. They have become the default option for families, professionals, and buyers upgrading from hatchbacks or sedans. In fact, passenger vehicles were the strongest-performing segment in the local market in 2025, growing by more than 20 percent year on year, a clear signal that SUVs now sit at the heart of everyday mobility in the country 

But modern SUV buyers are not simply shopping for size. With competition intensifying and vehicle inflation remaining low, South Africans are comparing vehicles feature for feature, not badge for badge. Safety technology, connectivity, real-world practicality, and long-term ownership confidence all matter more than ever. Buyers are also planning to keep their next vehicle longer, which places greater weight on durability, interior technology, and support after the sale.

That is where this guide comes in. Below, we break down what truly matters when choosing a modern SUV in South Africa and show how the Jetour range, including the Jetour Dashing, Jetour X70 Plus, Jetour T1, and Jetour T2, delivers on these expectations. Here’s what to look for before choosing your next SUV.

Safety Technology Should Be Non-Negotiable

Safety is no longer a nice-to-have; it is a baseline expectation. Today’s SUV buyers expect modern driver assistance systems that reduce fatigue, improve awareness, and protect passengers in everyday driving conditions. This is especially true for families and younger buyers, who increasingly prioritise safety systems, usability, and warranty cover when comparing vehicles. 

Key features to look for include multiple airbags, electronic stability control, ABS with electronic brake-force distribution, tyre pressure monitoring, and child-seat anchoring points. Beyond that, modern SUVs should also offer technologies that actively assist the driver, such as blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, and surround-view camera systems.

Within the Jetour range, safety is treated as a core design principle rather than an optional extra. The Jetour Dashing offers a comprehensive safety suite, with advanced systems such as blind spot detection, lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert available on certain derivatives. The Jetour X70 Plus leans into family-focused safety, pairing core stability systems and ISOFIX anchors with additional driver aids on higher-spec models to make school runs, parking, and long journeys feel more controlled.

For buyers with adventure in mind, the Jetour T1 and Jetour T2 take safety a step further. Both models offer advanced driver assistance features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, and wide-angle camera systems that provide confidence on highways, gravel roads, and uneven terrain alike.

ALSO SEE: Everything You Want To Know About The All-New Jetour T1 And T2

Technology & Connectivity Expectations in 2026

Technology is one of the clearest indicators of whether an SUV truly feels modern. Large infotainment displays, digital instrument clusters, smartphone integration, and intuitive interfaces are no longer reserved for premium price brackets. Buyers expect them as standard.

In practice, this means looking for seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, wireless charging, clear digital displays, and controls that are easy to use while driving. The goal is not complexity, but clarity.

The Jetour Dashing speaks directly to tech-focused buyers with its dual digital screen layout and voice command functionality, creating a cockpit that feels current without being overwhelming. The Jetour X70 Plus uses a similar dual-screen setup but applies it to a family environment, prioritising ease of use for multiple drivers and passengers.

In the T-Series, technology becomes a real differentiator. The Jetour T1 and Jetour T2 both feature large, high-resolution infotainment displays powered by advanced processing hardware, delivering fast responses and smooth connectivity. Combined with premium audio systems and smart cabin layouts, these interiors feel future-ready, even on long-distance drives.

Practical Space for South African Families

In South Africa, practicality often matters more than perception. An SUV needs to work just as well in weekday traffic as it does on weekend road trips or school holiday escapes.

Key considerations include rear legroom, boot flexibility, seating configuration, and smart storage solutions. Buyers should think honestly about how many seats they need and how often they will use them.

The Jetour X70 Plus is purpose-built for families who need genuine seven-seat flexibility. Its sliding middle row, fold-flat second and third rows, and generous cargo capacity make it easy to adapt from school transport to holiday luggage without fuss. It suits households that want one vehicle to do everything.

The Jetour Dashing, as a five-seater, targets urban families and professionals who value space but do not need a third row. Its wide cabin and flexible rear seating make daily use simple and comfortable.

For lifestyle buyers, the Jetour T1 and Jetour T2 strike a different balance. Their boxier shapes maximise usable interior space while maintaining strong road presence. Roof rails, clever storage, and adaptable seating layouts make them well suited to outdoor gear, long weekends, and active routines.

READ NEXT: Countless SA Drivers Are Suddenly Choosing The Jetour T2 (Here’s Why!)

Efficiency & Performance For Local Roads

A modern SUV should feel confident on South African roads, whether that means overtaking safely on highways, coping with uneven surfaces, or handling stop-start city traffic efficiently.

Turbocharged petrol engines have become the norm, offering a balance between usable power and fuel economy. Buyers should look for smooth transmissions, responsive throttle behaviour, and enough torque to manage a full load of passengers or luggage.

Both the Jetour Dashing and Jetour X70 Plus use a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine paired with a dual-clutch transmission, delivering smooth power delivery and claimed fuel consumption figures that suit everyday driving. Sport modes add confidence when overtaking, while overall efficiency remains practical for longer ownership.

The Jetour T1 and Jetour T2 expand the performance conversation further. With more powerful engine options, intelligent four-wheel-drive systems on certain variants, and increased ground clearance, these SUVs are designed to handle a broader range of road and terrain conditions without sacrificing comfort on tar.

Ownership Support Matters More Than Ever

As buyers plan to keep vehicles longer, ownership support has become a deciding factor. Warranty cover, service plans, parts availability, and dealer support all influence long-term satisfaction, especially when considering newer brands.

Jetour’s ownership offering in South Africa is one of its strongest value propositions. Across the range, buyers benefit from long-term engine warranties, comprehensive vehicle cover, and structured service plans that provide predictability and peace of mind.

Backed by Williams Simpson Jetour, customers also gain access to local expertise, professional servicing, and aftersales support that helps build confidence well beyond the showroom floor. This matters, particularly for buyers who want reassurance alongside value.

LEARN MORE: Jetour’s Move Into Europe = GREAT News For Savvy South African SUV Shoppers

Which Jetour SUV is Right For You?

Choosing the right SUV comes down to lifestyle and priorities. Each model answers a different need, without forcing buyers to compromise on safety, technology, or value.

• The Jetour Dashing suits drivers who want modern design, strong technology, and everyday comfort in a five-seat format.
• The Jetour X70 Plus is ideal for families who need seven seats, flexible space, and a calm, connected cabin.
• The Jetour T1 appeals to buyers who want urban usability with weekend adventure capability.
• The Jetour T2 is designed for those who want serious exploration ability paired with premium features and comfort.

Choosing a Modern SUV With Confidence

A modern SUV is no longer defined by size or brand heritage alone. Today, it is about safety, smart technology, real-world practicality, and confidence in ownership support. South African buyers are informed, value-driven, and willing to look beyond traditional nameplates when the offering makes sense.

Imported SUVs already account for a significant share of local sales, reflecting how the market has shifted toward broader consideration sets and feature-led decision-making. 

With its forward-thinking design, strong feature sets, and local dealer backing, Jetour offers a compelling answer to what modern SUV buyers are looking for in South Africa today. Book a test drive, view available promotions, or contact William Simpson Jetour to explore which model fits your life best.

Jetour arrived in South Africa in 2024 and wasted no time making itself known. Within months, the brand’s bold styling, high-value features and generous warranties caught the attention of families, professionals and adventurers across the country. It already feels like part of the landscape. Now the brand is making headlines again, this time for taking a major step into Europe. Jetour will begin sales in Poland from late 2025 with a line-up that includes some of the very same SUVs we see here at home.

You might wonder what any of this has to do with you as a buyer in Cape Town. Quite a lot, actually. When a brand expands globally, especially into competitive and tightly regulated markets like Europe, it typically brings more stability, stronger supply chains, and a significantly more secure ownership experience. It signals confidence in the product. It hints at long-term staying power. It also means that someone browsing the Jetour showroom at William Simpson Jetour Tokai is not buying into a small upstart. They are joining a global movement that is gaining serious momentum.

So, let us explore why Jetour’s rise in Europe matters for SUV shoppers right here in South Africa, and especially for those looking for their next family or adventure-ready vehicle in the Western Cape.

Jetour’s Global Momentum, Big Numbers And Big Ambitions

Jetour may be young, but it is not starting from zero. The brand was launched by Chery in 2018 with a clear purpose. Build modern, spacious SUVs that make travel easier, more enjoyable, and more accessible. This Travel Plus philosophy has shaped everything from the X70 Plus to the rugged T-Series.

What has really surprised the market is how fast Jetour has grown. The brand sold about 568,387 vehicles globally in 2024 and posted an impressive year-on-year growth figure of roughly 80.3 percent. Those are not numbers you associate with a niche newcomer. They tell us Jetour is scaling, expanding, and gearing up for long-term participation in the global SUV space. The company is targeting around 800,000 units in 2025, and that includes growing its overseas presence from around 35 percent of total sales to closer to 50 percent in the coming years.

When a manufacturer grows at this pace, it builds stronger economies of scale, which often translate into improved production consistency and a more stable parts network. For South African buyers, this is welcome news. A fast-growing brand that is committed to global expansion usually invests in its supply chains, its dealer networks, and its long-term customer support. Those investments eventually filter down to every market, including ours.

ALSO SEE: 5 Jetour Features That Bring Luxury-Level Tech To Everyday Driving

Why Jetour Chose Poland As A Launchpad

Jetour’s next bold move is Europe. The brand will begin selling vehicles in Poland from late 2025, and it is not easing into the market with unknown models. Instead, it is launching with three SUVs that South Africans already know well. The X70 Plus, the stylish Dashing and the adventure-ready T2.

Poland may seem like an unexpected starting point at first glance, although the strategy is sound. The Polish SUV market has shown strong growth over the last several years and sits firmly in the mid-market segment where Jetour thrives. Setting up dealerships and operational hubs in Poland is also more cost-effective compared to Western European countries. This allows Jetour to scale more quickly. The plan is to establish around thirty dealerships by mid-2026, which gives the brand enough room to test, refine and expand into new regions.

There is also a regulatory angle. Europe’s tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles have complicated immediate EV expansion, so Jetour’s choice to lead with internal combustion and hybrid powertrains helps sidestep that challenge for now. As a result, the brand can enter the market with confidence and focus on building a reputation for reliability and value.

The bigger picture is simple. Europe has strict safety, emissions and quality regulations. It has highly discerning customers. If Jetour is willing to put its vehicles in front of that audience, it signals a high level of confidence in its engineering and future direction. For South Africans who are sometimes hesitant about newer brands, that kind of international proof point carries real weight.

LEARN MORE: Jetour SA Celebrates One Year Of Driving Innovation

What Global Growth Means For South African Owners

All this global expansion is exciting, but the real value lies in what it means for everyday owners. Here is how Jetour’s global momentum translates into practical reassurance for South Africans.

Stronger Parts Support and After-Sales Stability

Bigger brands have stronger supply chains. That is the straightforward truth. Jetour’s rapid growth means its parts production and distribution networks are scaling alongside it. South Africa already benefits from this. The local Jetour parts warehouse carries over R100 million in stock, and availability has been consistently strong since launch.

This matters more than most people realise. When parts supply is stable, servicing becomes easier, repairs are quicker and long-term ownership feels less risky.

Confidence in Long-Term Brand Presence

South Africans have seen a few vehicle brands come and go over the years, and it has made some buyers cautious. Jetour’s trajectory offers the opposite story. The brand is expanding at speed. More than fifty dealerships have already opened across the country, which indicates a strong commitment from both Jetour and its dealer partners.

Couple that with an European expansion and you get a clear picture. This is not a brand preparing to exit any time soon. It is a brand investing in growth.

Resale Value and Growing Brand Recognition

Resale value is influenced by various factors, which means no manufacturer can make firm promises. What we can say is that brands with strong global visibility, steady model naming and consistent presence tend to achieve better recognition over time. Jetour is building that recognition through its international rollout. As the brand becomes more visible in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, awareness naturally grows. That awareness often supports better resale confidence down the line.

Continuous Product Development

Global scale means more resources, and that often results in faster technological development. Jetour is already working on new models, including its first full electric SUV, the T0, targeted for release by the end of 2026. This tells us Jetour is thinking about the next wave of mobility and not simply pushing out existing designs indefinitely. For South African buyers, it hints at a steady flow of future-focused vehicles coming our way.

World-Class Line-Up (Parked Right Here In Cape Town!)

All this global activity is exciting, but the real experience happens here at home. William Simpson Jetour Tokai gives Cape Town shoppers access to the same core models Jetour will be showcasing in Europe.

Jetour X70 Plus. A spacious family SUV with a comfortable cabin, a calm driving feel and abundant practicality. It is well-suited to school runs, long-distance travel and busy living.

Jetour Dashing. A stylish, coupe-inspired SUV that brings flair to daily commuting. It is loaded with modern technology and perfect for drivers who want something eye-catching yet functional.

Jetour T1. Jetour’s compact urban adventure SUV. Rugged styling, great everyday usability and surprising capability make it an excellent choice for Cape Town’s mix of city streets and weekend getaways.

Jetour T2. A bigger, more muscular SUV built for outdoor lovers. High ground clearance, intelligent four-wheel drive, and premium touches give it real presence both on and off the road.

The fact that three of these models are heading straight into Europe underlines their international competitiveness. You are not buying a locally limited product. You are buying a globally recognised one. Learn more about our current promotions here. 

Why A Global Brand With A Local Partner Is Good For YOU

Global growth is only one side of the story. The other is local trust. William Simpson is one of Cape Town’s most established dealership groups with more than three decades of experience across multiple automotive brands.

At Jetour Tokai, this experience translates into personalised service, transparent guidance, and real human support throughout the ownership journey. The dealership sits in Diep Rivier, which makes it easily accessible to the Southern Suburbs and wider Cape Town. It is the kind of place where you can talk to people who know the products and the local roads equally well. That combination is worth more than most spec sheets can express.

Jetour brings the global engineering muscle. William Simpson brings the local heart and expertise. Together, they make the ownership experience smoother and more reassuring.

READ NEXT: Jetour Has Your Back Long After You Leave The Lot (Here’s How!)

Future-Proofing Your Next SUV Purchase

If you are weighing up your next SUV, Jetour’s global rise should matter to you. It tells you the brand is scaling, innovating, and establishing itself in major markets. It tells you South Africa is not an isolated outpost but part of a global strategy. It tells you you are buying into something that is growing, not something uncertain.

Europe has tough standards. Jetour stepping into that arena with confidence is a meaningful sign of quality and long-term intent. Add to that South Africa’s strong dealer network, the generous 10-year or 1 million kilometre engine warranty for first owners, and the substantial parts warehouse, and you get a brand with both global power and local backing.

Thinking globally while buying locally is a smart, future-proof approach. Jetour Tokai gives you access to a world-class SUV range supported by a Cape Town team that understands exactly how you live and drive.

If you are ready to explore the line-up, book a test drive, or reach out for guidance. The team at William Simpson Jetour Tokai is ready to help you find the right match for your lifestyle.

FAQs

Is Jetour a safe long-term choice in South Africa?

Yes. The brand is expanding rapidly across multiple regions and has a strong presence in South Africa with more than fifty dealerships. The local parts warehouse and substantial warranties further strengthen long-term confidence.

Will Jetour’s expansion into Europe affect parts and support here at home?

Jetour’s growth typically strengthens supply chains rather than weakening them. South Africa already benefits from strong parts availability, which is supported by local investment.

Are the Jetour SUVs in South Africa the same as the ones sold in Europe?

The core models are the same, including the X70 Plus, Dashing, and T2. Some specifications may differ by market, although the engineering and overall platform remain aligned.

Where can I test drive a Jetour in Cape Town?

At William Simpson Jetour in Diep Rivier, Tokai. The team is available to arrange personalised test drives and help you compare models.

Modern SUVs have transformed the driving experience, bringing tech and safety features once reserved for luxury cars right into reach for everyday drivers. That’s exactly the promise Jetour features deliver in South Africa with its affordable, family-oriented SUVS and crossovers, including the X70 Plus and Dashing models. These SUVs pack innovative, user-friendly tech wrapped in modern styling, redefining what affordable luxury driving looks like.

If you’re a current Jetour owner or considering joining the brand, here are 5 Jetour features that showcase the best of Jetour technology, and how to use them to get the most out of your SUV.

1. Intelligent Dual Screens And Voice Control

Jetour’s modern interior immediately sets it apart. Both the X70 Plus and Dashing feature dual 10.25-inch digital displays that create a seamless, high-definition cockpit. One screen serves as your driver display, while the other controls multimedia, navigation, and vehicle settings. The system also includes intelligent voice control, allowing you to manage everything from climate settings to navigation with simple spoken commands.

2. 360-Degree Panoramic Camera System

Both the X70 Plus and Dashing come equipped with an advanced 360-degree camera system, giving you a complete bird’s-eye view of your surroundings when parking or navigating through tight spaces. Engaging this feature is usually automatic when reversing, or can be manually activated via the infotainment screen. Using this smart camera system reduces blind spots and helps avoid costly bumps or scrapes, ideal for busy city streets or family parking situations.

3. Safety And ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)

Jetour safety systems bring a heightened sense of awareness and control to every drive. There is a comprehensive suite of Jetour ADAS technologies, designed to prevent collisions, reduce fatigue, and make driving more intuitive and reassuring behind the wheel. In Jetour’s South Africa line-up, especially the higher trims, you’ll find:

Blind Spot Detection (BSD): This system constantly keeps an eye on areas you can’t see from your mirrors—the “blind spots” beside and just behind your car. If a vehicle enters that zone, a light or symbol on your side mirror alerts you. It’s particularly handy during lane changes on busy highways, helping prevent those heart-stopping close calls.

Lane Change Assist (LCA) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW): If your vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without an indicator signal, lane departure warning gently alerts you so you can correct your course. Lane change assist, on the other hand, monitors approaching traffic in adjacent lanes and warns you when it’s unsafe to move over. Together, they work to reduce side collisions and maintain smooth traffic flow, particularly on long highway stretches.

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA): Backing out of a busy parking space, like in a shopping centre, can be tricky when cars or pedestrians cross behind you. Rear cross-traffic alert uses radar sensors to detect movement from either side and issues a warning—audible, visual, or both—so you can stop in time.

Side Curtain Airbags: In the event of a severe side impact or rollover, side curtain airbags deploy along the windows to protect the heads and shoulders of passengers in both rows. These airbags add an important layer of passive safety, significantly reducing the risk of serious injury.

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Your tyres play a crucial role in safety, comfort, and efficiency. The TPMS constantly tracks the air pressure in each tyre and alerts you when one drops below the recommended level or becomes uneven. It’s a simple yet vital system that helps maintain stable handling, improves fuel economy, and prolongs tyre life, so you’re always driving on the right footing.

4. Keyless Entry, Electric Tailgate, And Driver Comfort Features

Family life demands convenience, and Jetour does not disappoint with keyless entry and start. The electric tailgate adds ease when loading groceries or luggage, and electrically adjustable driver seats ensure you find the perfect driving position quickly. Features like synthetic leather upholstery, ambient interior lighting, and climate control contribute to a comfortable cabin environment, making every trip a pleasure.

5. Wireless Charging And Smartphone Integration

Jetour models come equipped with wireless charging — 50W in the X70 Plus and 40W in the Dashing — so you can power up your phone effortlessly on the go. The charging pad is conveniently positioned in the centre console, keeping your cabin tidy and cable-free. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto built in, your smartphone connects seamlessly to the infotainment system. Navigation, calls, music, and messages are displayed directly on the main screen for easier access and safer control.

Experience Jetour For Yourself

Book a test drive today at William Simpson Jetour Tokai. We invite you to come explore the Jetour technologies in real-world conditions with the X70 Plus and Dashing models. Feel the digital displays come alive, try out camera assists, engage the hill controls, and experience just how modern and capable a value-packed SUV can be. We’d love to show you just how much driving comfort and safety Jetour can bring into your life.

Launching a new car brand into South Africa’s crowded automotive market is not for the faint of heart! Yet Jetour has gone from strength to strength since making its local debut in September last year. In just twelve months, the automaker has carved out a place among South Africa’s top 15 automotive brands, thanks to a combination of premium-quality vehicles, competitive pricing, and a customer-first philosophy.

Nic Campbell, Vice President of Jetour South Africa, sums it up perfectly: “Launching a new vehicle is one thing, but how you engage with your customers is what sets you apart. It’s not about being different, it’s about being better.”

The Building Of A Strong Foundation

The Jetour journey in South Africa has been defined by rapid growth. The dealer network has expanded to more than 50 locations nationwide, ensuring that customers from Cape Town to Polokwane can access vehicles, servicing, and parts with ease. An impressive 98% parts availability rate has further bolstered confidence in the brand.

Recognition has also come quickly. In July, Jetour achieved Gold Status in the 2025 NADA Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI). As one of the newest entrants on the list, winning in the Passenger and LCV segments underscored the trust Jetour has earned among its dealer partners.

DID YOU KNOW? Jetour was officially created on 22 January 2018 by Chery Holding Group, with its own independent operations in research & development, procurement, and marketing since 2021. Interestingly, over 83% of the welding work at Jetour’s smart factories is carried out by robots, and more than 90% of part-handling and movement between workstations is automated.

Vehicles That Speak To Mzansi Drivers

South Africans love their SUVs, and Jetour has answered that call with models that balance rugged design, advanced technology, and everyday practicality. The Jetour Dashing has been a standout since launch. Its bold styling and tech-forward interior appeal to younger buyers looking for an SUV that makes a statement. Under the bonnet, performance matches its good looks, while the cabin offers modern conveniences that suit busy urban lifestyles.

The Jetour X70 Plus, on the other hand, has won over families and long-distance travellers. Spacious, comfortable, and cleverly equipped, it strikes a balance between everyday commuting and adventure-ready capability. From school runs to road trips, the X70 Plus has become a trusted companion for South Africans who expect reliability without having to compromise on luxury touches.

Rapid Recognition & Remarkable Rewards

Jetour’s first birthday is about more than just a marker on the calendar. It’s a chance to celebrate the community of drivers who have joined the Jetour family. “Over the last 12 months, Jetour has gone from an unknown brand locally to one of South Africa’s top 15 automotive brands, a testament to the passion of our dealers, the trust of our customers, the strength of our team, and the offering of premium-quality vehicles at prices that are more accessible,” says Campbell.

To thank customers, Jetour dealerships across the country are giving buyers the chance to win prizes ranging from tablets and smart watches to Jetour apparel. It’s a tangible way to show appreciation for the trust South Africans have placed in the brand.

Tackling The Road Ahead With Confidence

The road ahead promises even more. As Campbell explains, “The road ahead for Jetour in South Africa is even more exciting. October will see us expand our range with two new highly anticipated SUV models – models that have experienced fast-growing demand in other global markets, thanks to their compelling combination of rugged design, advanced technology, and competitive pricing.”

This expansion will cement Jetour’s position as a brand that is here to stay. By blending global innovation with local understanding, Jetour is building momentum that will carry it well into the future.

DID YOU KNOW? Jetour’s commitment to innovation goes beyond design. Many of its SUVs are equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping support, and intelligent voice recognition. These features aren’t just about convenience; they’re part of the brand’s vision to make cutting-edge technology accessible to everyday drivers. 

A Journey Shared And A Future Forged

Celebrating one year in South Africa is about acknowledging both the challenges overcome and the successes achieved. Jetour has proven that with the right blend of product, service, and vision, even a brand-new player can win a place in the hearts of South African motorists.“As we celebrate our first anniversary in South Africa, we want to thank each of our customers for trusting us on this journey, and for joining our very special Jetour family,” says Campbell. With more vehicles set to arrive, growing recognition from industry bodies, and an ever-expanding dealer network, Jetour is only getting started. Keep an eye on the blog to learn more, and stay in the loop.

Jetour may be a relatively new face on the South African motoring scene, but globally, it’s a brand that’s moving fast and making waves. With a clear strategic direction and a fresh approach to what an SUV can offer, Jetour is rewriting the playbook on affordable luxury. It’s a story of big ambition, and it’s unfolding right here at home.

From its global Travel+ strategy to its warm welcome into the South African SUV market, Jetour is a brand with purpose. And that purpose is echoed through the people driving it forward, like Shaun Steynberg, the marketing strategist behind Jetour South Africa’s launch, and William Simpson Jetour, one of the brand’s first local dealerships.

Jetour’s Global Vision

Since launching its first vehicle in 2018, Jetour Auto has pursued a singular mission: to become the automotive brand that understands travel better than anyone else. This Travel+ philosophy goes far beyond marketing; it’s about designing vehicles around real journeys, real people, and the changing ways we move through the world.

By 2024, Jetour had already established a presence in more than 30 countries and regions, supported by over 600 sales and service networks globally. And it’s not stopping there. By 2030, Jetour aims to set up 10 KD manufacturing plants worldwide, reach 60 international markets, and expand to 1,600+ global outlets.

At the heart of Jetour’s global success is its commitment to innovation. From cutting-edge smart tech to advanced safety features, the brand combines customer-focused design with practical engineering.

Jetour doesn’t just follow automotive trends; it helps set them. Whether it’s the surge in affordable SUV popularity, the shift toward electrification, or the rise of digitally connected vehicles, Jetour is aligned with the way the world is driving.

READ NEXT: Jetour’s Unstoppable Rise in SA and Why This is Awesome for Mzansi Motorists

The South African Chapter: Shaun Steynberg’s Leadership

When Jetour entered South Africa in September 2023, it did so with two models: the five-seater Dashing and the seven-seater X70 Plus. But it wasn’t just the vehicles that turned heads; it was how the brand positioned itself so effectively in a tough, brand-loyal market.

Behind that momentum is Shaun Steynberg, Jetour South Africa’s Head of Marketing. With a background rooted in strategic marketing and operations, Shaun didn’t just take the usual route. He built the local marketing engine from the ground up, a small but focused five-person team, all working toward the goal of making Jetour a household name.

“What excites me most about working on a new car brand in South Africa is the opportunity to build something and challenge the big brands for market share,” he says. “It’s about being the underdog with an amazing product and having the chance to compete and grow.“

Launching into a space dominated by well-established automotive players wasn’t without its challenges. “We’ve had to be more creative, dynamic, and strategic with a smaller budget. That means spending wisely and being more out-of-the-box in how we operate,” Shaun notes.

His hands-on, collaborative leadership style has kept the brand grounded while staying adaptable in an ever-changing environment. One of Jetour SA’s most significant early wins? Cracking the top 15 automotive brands in the country in under a year. In June alone, the brand moved 683 units, overtaking several long-standing competitors. That’s no small feat.

ALSO SEE: Inside Jetour’s Robotic Powerhouse (The Fuzhou Factory Revolution)

William Simpson Jetour: A Dealership With Purpose

Jetour’s presence in South Africa is only as strong as its local touchpoints. That’s where William Simpson Jetour comes in. As one of the first franchised Jetour dealerships in the country, this award-winning Cape Town-based dealership plays a critical role in connecting global ambition with local trust.

From day one, the team at William Simpson Jetour embraced Jetour’s values of innovation, customer focus, and long-term quality. They’ve helped translate the “Travel+” vision into something you can test drive, finance, and take home, bringing that big-picture promise into the hands of real drivers.

Their commitment goes beyond selling cars. It’s about providing a seamless, supportive experience, from the first enquiry to after-sales care. Whether it’s tailored finance options, expert service support, or just a friendly test drive, William Simpson Jetour makes the experience personal.

LEARN MORE: Jetour Has Your Back Long After You Leave The Lot (Here’s How!)

Why Jetour Fits The South African Lifestyle

South Africans need vehicles that can adapt. From Jozi traffic to the gravel roads of the Karoo, an SUV here needs to be more than just good-looking; it has to deliver. That’s where Jetour hits the sweet spot.

Jetour SUVs are designed for how South Africans actually live and drive. They offer spacious interiors for growing families, smart tech for connected professionals, and real-world practicality for those who spend as much time on the road as they do at the destination.

And here’s the kicker: Jetour gives you all of that without the price tag you’d expect. In a market where buyers are more discerning than ever, the brand’s combination of premium features and affordability stands out. With models like the Dashing and X70 Plus, Jetour offers something rare: an SUV that feels luxurious, drives comfortably, and fits your budget.

Whether you’re looking for the ideal vehicle for your next road trip, something sleek for the daily commute, or a spacious family mover with all the bells and whistles, there’s a Jetour SUV for sale that ticks the right boxes.

Where To Next? Buckle Up, Mzansi!

Jetour’s story is one of bold vision meeting practical execution. From a global strategy built around meaningful travel, to Shaun Steynberg’s strategic rollout in South Africa, to trusted dealerships like William Simpson Jetour bringing it all to life, it’s a brand that’s going places.

If you’re ready to see how Jetour South Africa is redefining the SUV experience, there’s no better place to start than your local dealership. Visit William Simpson Jetour today to explore the full range, book a test drive, and discover what happens when global innovation meets local commitment.

What does the future of travel look like? If the recent Jetour International Business Conference in Shanghai is anything to go by, it’s bold, adventurous, and bursting with possibility. Held alongside Auto Shanghai 2025, this global event pulled together over 1,000 partners, media, and influencers from more than 70 countries, all to experience first-hand the latest chapter in Jetour’s story.

Jetour is not just building vehicles, it’s designing a way of life. One that’s smarter, more capable, and deeply connected to its “Travel+” philosophy. And while these innovations are being launched in international markets first, the excitement is undeniably building on our side of the world, too.

A New Era For Jetour

Themed Together for Future, this year’s conference marked a major milestone for Jetour, both in scale and in strategic direction. The brand has officially entered what it calls its “3.0 era,” signalling a renewed commitment to hybrid technology, intelligent features, and premium off-road performance.

This shift follows impressive growth. Since its founding in 2018, Jetour has sold over 1.68 million units globally, with more than 560,000 of those sales taking place in 2024 alone. That’s an 80.3% jump in year-on-year figures, which is not something you see every day in a competitive global auto market.

Introducing The GAIA Architecture

One of the standout moments at Auto Shanghai 2025 was the unveiling of Jetour’s new GAIA Architecture. This advanced hybrid off-road platform is designed to meet the growing demand for power, efficiency, and intelligent performance in rugged conditions.

Two flagship models, the Jetour G700 and G900, were showcased as the first to be built on the GAIA platform. Each offers a different interpretation of what future-ready mobility can look like. The G700 is equipped with the iDM-O Super Hybrid System, tailored for high-efficiency off-road driving, while the G900 features the iEM-O Amphibious Range Extender System, a name that hints at serious adventure potential.

Technology That Works For You

The test drives were where the technology really shone. Global delegates got behind the wheel of the T1, T2 i-DM, and G700 at the Shanghai Pudong Chuansha Test Drive Centre, putting Jetour’s core pillars (off-road capability, hybrid power, and intelligent features) to the test.

The T1 impressed with its smooth city acceleration, thanks to a 2.0T engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. But it was the T2 i-DM that drew nods for its quiet hybrid start-up and seamless transition to turbocharged torque when the road demanded it. Equipped with a next-gen 1.5 TGDI hybrid engine and a 3-speed DHT, it’s a strong showcase of Jetour’s hybrid expertise.

Then came the G700’s time to shine. Its autonomous parking demo had jaws dropping, as it neatly navigated tight parking spaces with zero driver input. With 12 ultrasonic sensors and four 360° cameras, the system brings a real-world solution to one of the most frustrating aspects of urban driving.

A Culture Of Exploration

Of course, Jetour’s “Travel+” mindset goes far beyond specs and sensors. The event itself was an immersion into the brand’s lifestyle approach. Guests toured iconic Shanghai landmarks, enjoyed curated cultural performances, and engaged in hands-on experiences with outdoor gear and Jetour’s conservation projects, all part of the brand’s mission to blend exploration with purpose.

It was during these moments that the essence of Jetour came into focus: a brand that encourages people to go places, whether across continents or out into the wild. The introduction of the Jetour Media Alliance (JMA) also signalled a long-term vision for global collaboration, with journalists and creators playing a key role in shaping how the brand connects with real-world users.

Looking To The Future

As Jetour continues to expand its global footprint, the buzz around what’s coming next is real. The G700 is set to make its international debut later in 2025, with other GAIA-based models like the G900 and F700 also in development. While there’s no official word yet on local release dates, these exciting advancements hint at what may be on the horizon for adventure-loving South Africans.

At Jetour Tokai, we’re watching closely, and with plenty of anticipation. The innovations on display in Shanghai may still be taking root globally, but they speak to a future where travel, tech, and trailblazing come together in vehicles built for the road less travelled. Check back soon for more Jetour news, updates, and exciting developments as we journey into the future of mobility together.