The Gulf region is witnessing a renewed surge of interest in mid-size SUVs, and Chinese brand Jetur has entered this ambitious segment with force through its new Jetour T2. The T2 combines sporty design with a powerful engine, positioning it as a challenger to long-established segment leaders. It comes with a 2.0-liter turbo engine producing around 251 hp and 390 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission . Built to handle the demanding desert terrain of the Gulf, the T2 rides on a long 2800 mm wheelbase and measures 4785 mm overall, giving it stability and a roomy interior .
Performance and Technical Specs
The T2 is a genuine 4×4 SUV equipped with BorgWarner’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system that allows seamless switching between 2WD and multiple drive modes. It offers seven driving modes (Normal, Sport, Sand, Snow, etc.) to adapt to harsh conditions . Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivers an impressive 250 hp and 390 Nm, giving the large body strong performance . Thanks to the 7-speed DCT, acceleration is notably quicker than traditional SUVs, with a top speed of around 180 km/h .
Interior Design and Tech Features
Inside, the T2 blends spaciousness with modern smart tech. A 15.6-inch HD central display dominates the cabin, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chipset, ensuring smooth response for apps and navigation . Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported. For audiophiles, the cabin features a Sony premium sound system with 18 speakers, including a subwoofer . Comfort touches include ventilated and heated front seats and ambient interior lighting . Additional luxury highlights include an electronic parking brake, wireless phone charging, remote engine start, and one-touch power windows.
Smart Safety Systems
The Jetour T2 is packed with advanced safety features. Alongside a full set of airbags, it offers a 540° panoramic view camera system (front, rear, and overhead) for easy and safe parking . Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) maintains safe distance, while Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) reduces collision risks . Other systems include EBD, ABS, ESC, and tire pressure monitoring. Its body structure is reinforced with high-strength steel for durability and crash protection. Notably, Jetur backs the T2 with a 10-year/1 million km warranty, a bold statement of confidence in its reliability .
Comparison with Competitors
- Jetour T2 vs Toyota Fortuner:
The T2 uses a smaller 2.0L turbo engine compared to the Fortuner’s 2.7L, but it produces far more power (250 hp vs 164 hp, 390 Nm vs 245 Nm) . In acceleration, the T2 is far superior (0–100 km/h in ~6 seconds vs ~12 seconds for the Fortuner ). However, the Fortuner offers 7 seats while the T2 is limited to 5. Toyota also benefits from its rock-solid reputation and extensive service network in the Gulf. In terms of price, the T2 undercuts the Fortuner, starting at around SAR 125,000–140,000 compared to the Fortuner’s ~SAR 180,000 for higher trims . Tech and luxury also favor the T2, which comes with larger screens and more advanced safety aids. - Jetour T2 vs Haval H6:
Both are Chinese SUVs aimed at value-conscious buyers. The Haval H6 is lighter (1600 kg) and smaller (4657 mm long), while the T2 offers more power (250 hp vs 190 hp) . H6 pricing starts around AED 90,000–100,000 (≈SAR 90,000–100,000) , making it more affordable. However, the T2 offers more premium features like the 18-speaker Sony system. - Jetour T2 vs Changan Hunter:
The Changan Hunter is more of a rugged pickup than an SUV. It uses a 1.9L diesel engine producing only 150 hp with a 6-speed automatic . While weaker in performance, the Hunter offers a much larger body (5330 mm length) and cargo capacity, making it more practical for heavy-duty use. Pricing for the Hunter starts around SAR 76,000–97,000 , significantly cheaper than the T2, but aimed at a different customer segment.
Editorial Analysis
The Jetour T2 clearly shows how Chinese automakers are stepping up to challenge established players in the SUV segment in the Gulf. With its powerful turbo engine, advanced tech, premium interior, and industry-leading warranty, it has all the ingredients to appeal to GCC buyers.
The main hurdles remain: building long-term brand trust among Gulf consumers who are loyal to Toyota and ensuring strong after-sales service in harsh desert conditions. Still, in terms of value for money, technology, and performance, the Jetur T2 deserves a spot among the best SUVs in Saudi Arabia and the UAE for 2025, especially within the new wave of Chinese SUVs .
