Jetour T1 gets cheaper 1.5T variant and PHEV in China – from RM53k, up to 1,300 km range, and now with DeepSeek AI

The Jetour T1 has received an expanded lineup in China, with a more affordable 1.5-litre turbocharged variant joining the existing 2.0-litre model. A new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version has also been introduced, offering up to 150 km of electric driving range.

Known domestically as the Jetour Freedom 7, the SUV now starts from 89,900 yuan (approximately RM53,000) under a limited-time promotional offer. Its regular starting price is 113,900 yuan (approximately RM67,000).

Three powertrain options are available, with the Chinese promotional prices as follows:

• 1.5T FWD: 89,900–110,900 yuan (approx. RM53,000–RM65,000)
• 2.0T AWD: 119,900–134,900 yuan (approx. RM70,000–RM79,000)
• 1.5T PHEV: 124,900–141,900 yuan (approx. RM73,000–RM83,000)

The new entry-level T1 uses a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 181 hp and 290 Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission driving the front wheels.

Meanwhile, the 2.0T version produces 251 hp and 390 Nm, with all-wheel drive and a BorgWarner XWD system.

The more interesting addition is the T1 Plus C-DM plug-in hybrid, which combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a dedicated hybrid transmission and a 26.6-kWh battery.

It offers up to 150 km of electric-only range and 1,300 km of combined range, both based on China's CLTC testing cycle. Claimed fuel consumption with a depleted battery is 5.89 L/100 km.

The T1 also gets a 15.6-inch 2.5K infotainment display running Chery's Tour OS, with Qualcomm Snapdragon processors depending on the variant. The system incorporates DeepSeek and iFlytek Spark AI models for voice commands and other cabin functions.

Higher-specification variants receive Chery's Falcon 500 driver assistance system, including highway navigation assistance, automated parking and autonomous emergency braking.

In terms of dimensions, the standard T1 measures 4,749 mm long, 1,967 mm wide and 1,840 mm tall, with a 2,800 mm wheelbase. The Plus versions are slightly longer at 4,796 mm.

Ground clearance ranges from 185 mm to 200 mm, while the claimed water-wading depth is between 600 mm and 700 mm, depending on the variant.

For Malaysia, the Jetour T1 is already available with 1.5T FWD and 2.0T AWD powertrains, priced from RM129,800 and RM146,800, respectively.