Jetour Dashing from RM 109,800: C-Segment Luxury on a B-Segment Budget?

In Malaysia's highly competitive SUV market, buyers often face a dilemma: with a budget of just over RM 100,000 (around RM 110k), they are usually limited to smaller B-segment models. To get a spacious C-segment vehicle suitable for family road trips, the budget has to stretch significantly.

With the arrival of the Jetour Dashing – a highly anticipated Chinese SUV that recently debuted in Malaysia with a starting price of RM 109,800 – can it truly deliver C-segment levels of space and comfort at a B-segment price point? 

Pricing and Warranty

Currently, the Jetour Dashing is offered in two main variants in Malaysia, with pricing starting from:

- Jetour Dashing 1.5 TCI Comfort: RM 109,800

- Jetour Dashing 1.5 TCI Prime: RM 116,800

In terms of aftersales support, Jetour offers a highly competitive package to address any concerns regarding newer Chinese brands in the local market:

7-year / 150,000 km vehicle warranty

10-year / 1,000,000 km engine warranty

5 times free service (including parts and labour)

Segment-Defying Dimensions

For SUV buyers, interior space is always a top priority. Built on Jetour's Kunlun Architecture, the Dashing's dimensions are:

- Length: 4,590 mm

- Width: 1,900 mm

- Height: 1,685 mm

- Wheelbase: 2,720 mm

For comparison, its dimensions surpass the popular Proton X70 and comfortably dwarf the Toyota Corolla Cross (4,460 mm), putting it squarely in standard C-segment territory alongside rivals like the Honda CR-V.

Boot capacity is rated at 486 litres in its standard configuration, expanding to 977 litres with the rear seats folded down. Whether it's the weekly grocery run or packing luggage for the 'balik kampung' journey, the cargo space easily matches that of a standard C-segment family SUV.

Powertrain and Performance

The Malaysian-spec Dashing is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 6-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT), driving the front wheels.

- Max Output: 154 PS / 5,500 rpm

- Max Torque: 230 Nm / 1,750 - 4,000 rpm

- Drive Modes: Eco, Comfort, and Sport

Driving Dynamics & Ride Comfort

The chassis setup isn't overly soft; instead, it offers a firm, planted feel that handles Malaysia's pothole-ridden roads and highway cruising on the North-South Expressway with confidence. NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels are commendable, with wind and road noise well-suppressed at highway speeds.

Power delivery prioritises smoothness and daily usability, offering a progressive build-up from a standstill. In real-world testing, average fuel consumption hovers around 11.0L/100km.

Specs & Safety

Entry-Level Comfort Variant (RM 109,800)

Even as the base model, the Comfort variant comes generously equipped with:

- LED headlights, DRLs, and taillights

- Power tailgate, keyless entry with push-start, and remote engine start

- Leather seats, 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat

- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen (with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto)

- 50W wireless smartphone charging pad and automatic climate control with rear air vents and a CN95 air filtration system

Safety kit includes 4 airbags, a reverse camera, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

Range-Topping Prime Variant (RM 116,800 — RM 7,000 premium)

If your budget permits, paying the RM 7,000 premium for the Prime variant is highly recommended, as it adds:

- Panoramic sunroof

- 19-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors with LED welcome lights, and rain-sensing wipers

- 4-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, multi-colour ambient lighting, reclining rear seats, and a 6-speaker audio system

- 6 Airbags (adding side and curtain airbags)

Crucially, it gains a full Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite, which includes Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a 360-degree camera, and a 180-degree transparent underbody view.

Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

Jetour Dashing has successfully established itself in Malaysia's C-Segment SUV market with its aggressive pricing strategy and class-leading interior space.

For buyers with a budget below RM 120,000 who are looking for a youthful design, spacious cabin, strong value proposition, and enhanced active and passive safety features, the RM 116,800 Prime variant is arguably the most well-rounded choice.

With local CKD production becoming more established and Jetour’s after-sales network continuing to expand, now could be a good time to consider the Dashing. However, potential buyers are still advised to visit their nearest showroom for a test drive and experience whether its space, performance, and overall driving feel match their daily needs.