The Chinese automaker Jetour, owned by Chery, is set to enter the Australian market with a launch event planned for Sydney in late May, followed by a corresponding debut in Melbourne. This expansion marks another step in the growing wave of Chinese automotive brands targeting the Australian consumer base.
Independent Operation and Global Presence
Jetour will operate as a separate entity from Chery and Omoda Jaecoo in Australia, a strategy mirroring its approach in other international markets like South Africa and Malaysia. This means it won’t rely on Chery’s existing network of roughly 80 dealerships (expected to reach 100 by year-end) for distribution. The brand delivered over 622,000 vehicles globally in 2025, contributing over 22% of the Chery Auto Group’s total sales of nearly 2.8 million units. Jetour currently offers eight SUV models worldwide, split between passenger and more rugged off-road designs.
Models Expected in Australia
While specific models haven’t been officially confirmed, Australia is anticipated to receive vehicles from Jetour’s right-hand drive production line. Key models currently available in South Africa include the Dashing compact SUV, the T-Series (T1 and T2) mid-size SUVs, and the seven-seat X70 Plus.
The T2 stands out as a popular option in South Africa, positioned as a direct competitor to the GWM Tank 300. It features a boxy design, a 2.8-meter wheelbase, and 220mm of ground clearance, making it suitable for off-road driving.
Powertrain and Features
The T2 will be offered in South Africa with two engine options: a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 125kW/270Nm (paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and 2WD) and a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo engine delivering 180kW/375Nm (with AWD and a 1600kg towing capacity). A plug-in hybrid version, combining a 1.5-liter turbo engine with electric motors for combined outputs of 447kW/910Nm, is available in China.
Inside, the T2 boasts synthetic leather seats, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 15.6-inch central touchscreen. Additional features include wireless phone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a glass sunroof, and dual-zone climate control. Notably, autonomous emergency braking (AEB) is only standard on higher trim levels, which may require adjustments for Australian safety regulations.
Future Plans
Jetour has stated ambitions to become a leading off-road brand and is reportedly developing a plug-in hybrid ute to compete with models like the GWM Cannon. This expansion into the Australian market, alongside other Chinese brands, signals a growing shift in automotive competition.
The arrival of Jetour represents a clear trend: Chinese automakers are increasingly targeting international markets, including Australia, with competitive pricing and feature-rich vehicles. The independent operation from Chery suggests a focused strategy to establish its own brand identity and dealer network. This expansion will likely raise questions about long-term market share, after-sales service, and the impact on established automotive brands in Australia.
