The South African SUV market has become increasingly competitive, with Chinese manufacturers making their presence felt through attractive styling, generous specifications and aggressive pricing. The latest Jetour Dashing is another reminder that established brands can no longer take their position in the market for granted.
The refreshed Dashing arrives with sharper styling, a more powerful engine in its upper specification, improved technology and additional safety features, strengthening its appeal in the increasingly crowded midsize SUV segment.
At first glance, the Dashing is difficult to ignore. Its coupe-inspired silhouette, prominent borderless grille, distinctive LED lighting and sporty red exterior accents give it an assertive road presence. The redesigned rear, featuring brushed-aluminium quad exhaust finishers, adds to its athletic character.
The 19-inch alloy wheels complete a package that looks considerably more expensive than its entry-level price suggests. Buyers can choose from six colours, including Forest Green, Crimson Red, Glacier White and Onyx Black.
Interior
Inside, the new Jetour Dashing has been given a modern, technology-focused outlook, with two 10.25-inch displays serving as the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. The high-tech setup can be linked wirelessly to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The cabin is spacious, benefiting from a 2,720mm wheelbase, while luggage capacity ranges from 486 litres to 977 litres with the rear seats folded. This makes the Dashing a practical proposition for families who need everyday versatility without sacrificing contemporary styling.
Performance and safety
The range consists of the Prestige and Prime derivatives, with meaningful differences under the bonnet. The Prestige uses a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 115kW and 230Nm, paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Prime gets the upgraded 125kW and 270Nm version, matched to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Both models send power to the front wheels. Claimed combined fuel consumption is 7.8 litres per 100km for the Prestige and 6.8 litres for the Prime. These figures face a stiff test under typical South African driving conditions, particularly in stop-start urban traffic.
The Prime is where the Dashing really distinguishes itself. Its equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, electrically operated tailgate, heated and ventilated front seats, an eight-speaker Sony sound system and wireless phone charging.
Safety technology is another important selling point. Depending on the derivative, features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and a 540-degree panoramic camera system. The Prime adds a more comprehensive driver-assistance package, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance and autonomous emergency braking.
Verdict
The new Dashing is a serious contender for attention in the highly competitive SUV market in South Africa. It brings plenty of visual drama and equipment to a segment where value for money increasingly matters as much as the badge on the bonnet. The 10-year warranty offer is the ultimate charm for sales.
Pricing
Jetour Prestige Dashing R429,900
Jetour Prime Dashing R479,900
With a five-year/150 000km vehicle warranty, a five-year/75 000km service plan and a 10-year/one-million-kilometre engine warranty for the first owner.
