Jetour X70 Plus Review: The Bolder Twin?
By: Dylan Naidoo
“Am I daydreaming or did we just review this Jetour?” Surprisingly, this was my first reaction to the Jetour X70 Plus, a big 7-seater SUV that shares a lot of similarities with our previously tested Dashing. However, whilst fundamentally these crossovers share most elements, distinct differences that allow for them to cater to completely different markets. Whilst the Dashing is a small crossover, with bolder futuristic styling paired with a more coupe look, the X70 Plus is a more traditional looking, larger family-crossover SUV that includes 7-seats as opposed to the Dashing’s 5-seat configuration. The difference is minor, and yet, the target audience completely changes. I see the Dashing appealing to young professionals, and the X70 Plus for the families, so this review of the Jetour X70 Plus is focused on it as a family car.
Engineering & Technology
Like the Dashing, the X70 Plus features a 1.5l turbocharged 4-cylinder capable of 115kW of power and 230nm of torque. Interestingly, fuel range has remained unchanged compared to the Dashing, with the X70 Plus also retaining a claimed 7.8L/100km fuel range. The significance of this lies with the X70 Plus being a larger 7-seater family cruiser. In our testing, the power in this crossover SUV is more than sufficient, and engine noise was minimal unless you really put your foot down. Power is fed through a 6-speed dual clutch automatic transmission, and shifting was very smooth. Essentially, for a family cruiser, the Jetour ticks all the necessary boxes for a decently powered crossover with sufficient power should all seven seats be filled.
The interior pretty much looks practically identical to the Dashing, but if you have seen my Dashing review, you would know this interior is just one of my favourites. Like the Dashing, inside you will find a large 10.25-inch infotainment system, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In our testing, the setup was quick and seamless. These are paired with both physical air-conditioning controls and a volume knob, something that I feel is important. The speaker system in the X70 Plus is Sony branded, and delivers impressive clarity, good bass and mids. Outside of the great legacy features, like many Chinese vehicles, this family crossover is fully equipped: Keyless entry and start, front and rear parking sensors, many braking and hill-assists and your lane assist features.
Design & Interior
Jetour X70 Plus Interior
The design and interior is the major differentiator between the Dashing and the X70 Plus. Whilst the Dashing offers a bolder, more commanding look, the X70 Plus is more subdued, offering an SUV look most people are used to, and I appreciate this feature. Whilst similar vehicles, having these different looks is an attractive feature for buyers, as the less showy, more “low-key” look of the X70 Plus suits me better. The front grill is not too large but rather flows with the rest of the car, and overall, the car’s looks are minimal. And let's not forget that sunroof!
Once again, this is one of my favourite interiors in a crossover. The blend of minimalist styling whilst also retaining essential buttons, knobs and a normal gear shifter works very well in the design, and I do wish Jetour continues this type of design language. Seats are wrapped in leather, as well as the steering wheel. The overall interior is great!
Space
The Jetour X70 Plus has a rather decent sized boot, although I do believe there are areas for improvements. With all seven-seats up, the X70 Plus has an 89L boot capacity, which is slightly underwhelming. However, with the third-row seats put down, the capacity is 438L, which is acceptable. On a brighter note, both headroom and legroom were very good and offered ample space for even tall passengers.
Price & Overall Thoughts
Pricing of the Jetour X70 Plus starts at R444,900, with the Prime version starting at R494,500. Whilst I do see the appeal for the Jetour X70 Plus and I firmly believe this crossover SUV pushes above its price tag, its younger Dashing brother just feels like the better deal. But seeing it as a family car, the X70 Plus is still a solid crossover at its price range.
