Chinese automotive brand Jetour officially launched in Kenya on November 8, 2025, introducing four sport utility vehicles designed to disrupt the country’s competitive mid-SUV segment with aggressive pricing and advanced technology.
Global Motors Centre Limited, the official distributor of Jetour vehicles in Kenya, unveiled the T2, T1, X70 Plus, and Dashing models at a high-profile event held at Eka Hotel in Nairobi. The launch marks a significant milestone for the Chery Group subsidiary, which has sold over one million SUVs globally since its establishment in 2018.
Competitive Pricing Strategy
The four models are priced between KES 4.9 million and KES 7.8 million, positioning them below many established Japanese and European competitors. The Jetour Dashing, the most affordable model at KES 4.9 million, targets tech-savvy professionals with its AI-enhanced driver assistance system and futuristic digital cockpit. The X70 Plus, priced at KES 5.07 million, serves as the family-oriented option with seven-seat capacity and smart connectivity features.
At the premium end, the T1 (KES 7.4 million) and T2 (KES 7.8 million) cater to adventure enthusiasts and off-road drivers. The T2 stands out with its impressive 700mm wading depth, BorgWarner four-wheel-drive system, and 220mm ground clearance, making it capable of tackling Kenya’s challenging terrain.
Technical Specifications
All four models feature turbocharged engines ranging from 1.5-liter to 2.0-liter configurations. The X70 Plus and Dashing utilize either 1.5L turbocharged engines producing 115-154 horsepower or 1.6L variants generating up to 197 horsepower. Meanwhile, the T1 and T2 offer more powerful 2.0L turbocharged options delivering 254 horsepower and 390 Nm of torque.
Transmission options include six-speed and seven-speed dual-clutch transmissions for the Dashing and X70 Plus, while the T1 and T2 feature seven-speed DCT or eight-speed automatic transmissions. The X70 Plus distinguishes itself as the only seven-seater in the lineup, while the other models accommodate five passengers.
Advanced Technology Integration
Jetour has equipped its vehicles with cutting-edge technology to appeal to Kenya’s tech-forward consumers. All models feature 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreens powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chips, ensuring responsive performance. Standard features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, 360-degree cameras, and Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
The Dashing model particularly emphasizes its 36-decibel silent cabin, Sony eight-speaker surround sound system, and 40W wireless fast charging capability. These premium features, typically found in higher-priced vehicles, give Jetour a competitive advantage in value proposition.
Local Assembly and Economic Impact
Global Motors Centre announced a KES 1.4 billion investment to establish local assembly operations at its Mombasa facility, with production scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2026. The plant currently assembles FAW trucks and will be expanded to accommodate Jetour’s SUV lineup.
“We are going to start assembling the Jetour models in the first quarter of 2026 at our Mombasa plant,” said Ali Zubedi, Managing Director of Global Motors Centre. Local assembly will enable the company to benefit from tax incentives, potentially reducing vehicle prices further and creating hundreds of jobs.
Professor Erastus Gatebe, Industrialisation Secretary at the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, praised the initiative during the launch event. “The plan by Jetour to set up a local assembly operation, aiming to create hundreds of jobs, enhance skills transfer, and support Kenya’s Vision 2030 industrialisation and clean mobility goals is directly aligned with government efforts,” he stated.
Expansion Plans
Jetour Kenya plans to expand its service network beyond Nairobi and Mombasa to include Kisumu, Eldoret, Nanyuki, and Nakuru. The company also intends to gradually introduce electric and hybrid-powered vehicles to align with Kenya’s green mobility objectives.
Andy Yuan, Vice President of Jetour International, emphasized Kenya’s strategic importance: “Kenya is a strategic market for Jetour in Africa. Its vibrant economy, innovation, and youthful population make it the perfect hub for our long-term growth”.
With competitive pricing, advanced features, and commitment to local manufacturing, Jetour is positioned to challenge established players in Kenya’s automotive market while contributing to the country’s industrial development goals.
