The Jetour X70 is making waves in the mid-size SUV market, and it’s not hard to see why. As a stylish, affordable, and feature-packed vehicle from Jetour, a sub-brand of the Chinese automaker Chery, the X70 is designed to appeal to families, budget-conscious buyers, and those looking for a versatile ride without breaking the bank. Launched in 2018, this crossover SUV has gained traction globally, particularly in markets like South Africa, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, thanks to its blend of modern design, practical features, and competitive pricing. Whether you’re navigating city streets or planning a family road trip, the Jetour X70 promises a lot for its price tag. In this comprehensive Jetour X70 review, we’ll dive into its features, performance, price, and how it stacks up against competitors to help you decide if it’s the best mid-size SUV for you.
Overview of the Jetour X70
The Jetour X70 is a mid-size crossover SUV that combines practicality with modern flair. It’s part of Jetour’s lineup, a brand established in 2018 under Chery Holdings, focusing on family-friendly SUVs and crossovers. The X70 stands out for its spacious interior, which can seat up to seven passengers, making it an ideal choice for families or those needing extra room for passengers and cargo. Available in multiple variants, including the base X70, X70S, X70M, X70 Coupe, X70S EV, and the premium X70 Plus, it caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets.
What sets the Jetour X70 apart is its value proposition. It offers premium features typically found in more expensive SUVs, such as a large touchscreen infotainment system, advanced safety technologies, and a sleek design, all at a price that undercuts many rivals. With a bold exterior, a comfortable cabin, and decent performance, the X70 is carving a niche in the competitive mid-size SUV segment. Let’s break down what makes this SUV tick.
Design and Exterior Styling
A Bold and Modern Look
The Jetour X70 boasts a design that’s both eye-catching and contemporary, striking a balance between rugged SUV appeal and urban sophistication. Its exterior is characterized by sharp lines, a prominent front grille, and sleek LED headlights that give it a premium feel. The large octagonal grille, often adorned with chrome accents, draws inspiration from modern SUV trends, while the slim LED daytime running lights add a touch of elegance. Some reviewers note subtle design cues reminiscent of European brands like Jaguar, particularly in the headlight shape, but the X70 maintains its own identity.
Key Exterior Features
- Sleek LED Headlights and Taillights: Provide excellent visibility and a modern aesthetic.
- Large Front Grille: A bold, octagonal design that dominates the front fascia.
- 19-Inch Alloy Wheels (Deluxe trim): Enhance the SUV’s stance and style.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Available on higher trims, adding a sense of openness.
- Red Accents: Found on some models, giving a sporty vibe to the exterior.
- Streamlined Profile: A sloping roofline and chrome window trim create a dynamic look.
The X70’s dimensions—approximately 4,720 mm long, 1,900 mm wide, and 1,695 mm tall with a 2,745 mm wheelbase—place it squarely in the mid-size SUV category, comparable to the Hyundai Santa Fe or Toyota RAV4. The X70 Plus variant is slightly larger, offering a more imposing presence. While some critics argue the design isn’t entirely original, it’s undeniably attractive and likely to age well over time.
Interior Comfort and Features
Spacious and Family-Friendly
Step inside the Jetour X70, and you’re greeted by a surprisingly upscale cabin for its price point. The interior is designed with comfort and practicality in mind, offering ample space for up to seven passengers across three rows. The Jetour X70 interior is a standout, with high-quality materials like faux leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and subtle chrome or red accents that create a premium ambiance.
Key Interior Features
- 10.1-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment: Responsive and user-friendly, with smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in some markets).
- Panoramic Sunroof: Measures 1.1 meters, flooding the cabin with light.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: A 12.3-inch display (on higher trims) provides clear driver information.
- Spacious Seating: Comfortable, supportive seats with adjustable backrests in the second row.
- Ample Cargo Space: Up to 1,260 liters with the rear seats folded, though limited with all seats up.
- Four USB Ports: Two front, two rear, plus a 50W wireless charging pad.
- Dual-Zone Climate Control: With rear vents for passenger comfort.
The second row is notably spacious, with an adjustable backrest and a nearly flat floor, making it ideal for long drives. The third row, however, is better suited for children or occasional use due to limited legroom. Some reviewers note that the driver’s seat could drop lower for taller drivers, but the adjustable steering column helps find a comfortable driving position. The cabin’s insulation is impressive, keeping road and wind noise minimal, which enhances the overall driving experience.
Engine and Performance
Powertrain Options
The Jetour X70 offers a range of powertrains to suit different driving needs, though availability varies by market. Most models come equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine, producing 156 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque. Higher-end trims, like the X70 Plus, offer a 1.6-liter turbo engine with 197 horsepower and 290 Nm of torque for more robust performance. There’s also a plug-in hybrid variant, the X70 C-DM, which combines a 1.5-liter engine with an electric motor for a combined range of up to 1,200 km.
Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), or a 7-speed DCT for the 1.6-liter engine. An 8-speed automatic is available in some regions. The X70 is primarily front-wheel-drive, which aids fuel efficiency but limits off-road capability compared to AWD competitors.
Driving Experience
The Jetour X70 performance is adequate for daily driving and highway cruising, though it’s not designed to set pulses racing. The 1.5-liter engine provides decent low-end torque, making it responsive in city traffic, but some reviewers note turbo lag at low RPMs, particularly with the DCT. Switching to Sport mode improves throttle response but can lead to higher fuel consumption. The 1.6-liter engine feels punchier, especially for overtaking or merging onto highways.
Fuel economy is a strong suit, with the 1.5-liter engine averaging around 7.8–8.5 L/100 km, depending on driving conditions. The suspension is well-tuned, absorbing bumps and road imperfections without feeling floaty, and the brakes offer a progressive, confident feel. However, steering can feel vague, which may detract from the driving experience, especially at higher speeds or during cornering.
Safety and Technology
Comprehensive Safety Suite
The Jetour X70 comes equipped with a robust set of safety features, making it a compelling choice for families. While not all markets offer the same advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), higher trims include a suite of modern safety technologies.
- Standard Safety Features:
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Traction Control and Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Multiple Airbags (up to six in some trims)
- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
- Rear Parking Sensors and Camera
- Advanced Safety Features (available on higher trims):
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Lane Change Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- 360-Degree Camera System
- Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control
Cutting-Edge Technology
The X70’s tech offerings are a highlight, especially for budget-conscious buyers. The large touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive, and the digital instrument cluster adds a modern touch. Features like keyless entry, a power tailgate, and ambient lighting enhance the overall experience. However, some markets lack Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which could be a drawback for tech-savvy buyers.
Jetour X70 Variants and Trim Levels
The Jetour X70 is available in multiple variants, each catering to different needs and budgets:
- X70 Base: The entry-level model with essential features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen, manual transmission, and basic safety systems.
- X70S: A sportier trim with unique alloy wheels and a more luxurious interior.
- X70M: A budget-focused variant with a simplified design and fewer features.
- X70 Coupe: A sporty, style-driven model with a sleeker profile.
- X70S EV: An all-electric variant with a 56 kWh battery and up to 450 km range (NEDC).
- X70 Plus: The premium model with a larger grille, enhanced tech, and a 1.6-liter engine option.
- X70 C-DM: A plug-in hybrid with a 1.5-liter engine and electric motor.
Trim levels typically include Comfort, Momentum, and Deluxe, with the Deluxe offering the most features, such as 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety systems.
Price and Value for Money
The Jetour X70 price is one of its biggest selling points, offering excellent value compared to competitors. Prices vary by market, but here’s a rough guide (in USD, based on a 7 CNY to 1 USD conversion):
- Jetour X70 Base: Starting at ~$26,394
- X70 Plus Momentum: ~$27,000–$30,000
- Jetour X70 Plus Deluxe: ~$31,000–$34,000
- X70 C-DM (Hybrid): ~$35,000+
In markets like South Africa, the X70 Plus starts at around R454,900 (~$25,000), while in the UAE, it’s priced at approximately AED 80,000–99,000 (~$22,000–$27,000). These prices make the X70 significantly cheaper than rivals like the Toyota RAV4 or Hyundai Tucson, while offering comparable features.
The X70 also comes with a generous warranty: a 5-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and a 10-year/1,000,000 km engine warranty for the first owner, adding peace of mind for buyers. However, some markets lack comprehensive service plans, which could increase maintenance costs over time.
Jetour X70 vs Competitors
How does the Jetour X70 stack up against other mid-size SUVs? Let’s compare it to popular rivals:
| Feature | Jetour X70 Plus | Chery Tiggo 8 | Toyota Fortuner | MG Hector |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (USD) | ~$27,000–$34,000 | ~$28,000–$35,000 | ~$40,000–$50,000 | ~$25,000–$30,000 |
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo (156 hp) / 1.6L Turbo (197 hp) | 1.6L Turbo (197 hp) | 2.7L Petrol (164 hp) / 2.8L Diesel | 1.5L Turbo (143 hp) / 2.0L Diesel |
| Seating | 5 or 7 | 7 | 7 | 5 or 7 |
| Infotainment | 10.1-inch touchscreen | 10.25-inch touchscreen | 8-inch touchscreen | 10.4-inch touchscreen |
| Safety Features | ABS, ESP, 360-camera, Blind Spot | ABS, ESP, Lane Keep Assist | ABS, Airbags, Rear Camera | ABS, ESP, 360-camera |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | 7.8–8.5 | 7.5–8.0 | 10–12 | 8–9 |
- Chery Tiggo 8: As Jetour’s sibling, the Tiggo 8 offers similar features but a slightly more refined driving experience. However, the X70 is often cheaper and has a more distinctive design.
- Toyota Fortuner: A rugged, reliable option with better off-road capability, but it’s pricier and lacks the X70’s tech features.
- MG Hector: Comparable in price and features, but the X70 offers more seating flexibility and a longer warranty.
The Jetour X70 vs competitors comparison shows it excels in value and features but may lag in driving dynamics and brand recognition.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable pricing for a feature-rich SUV
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Impressive fuel economy
- Generous warranty package
- Modern design with premium touches
Cons
- Steering feels vague, impacting handling
- Turbo lag in the 1.5-liter engine
- Third-row seating is cramped for adults
- Limited off-road capability (FWD only)
- Brand recognition still developing in some markets
Customer Reviews and Market Reception
The Jetour X70 has received generally positive feedback from owners, particularly in markets like the Philippines and Saudi Arabia. Customers praise its spacious interior, value for money, and feature-packed cabin. For example, a Filipino owner noted, “The X70 is perfect for my large family. It’s comfortable, and the price is unbeatable for what you get.” Another user in Qatar highlighted its fuel efficiency and ease of maintenance.
However, some owners mention drawbacks, such as sluggish gearbox response and less-than-stellar handling during cornering. The brand’s relatively new presence in some markets raises concerns about long-term reliability and after-sales support, though Jetour’s growing dealership network and parts availability are addressing these issues.
FAQ Section
1. What is the price of the Jetour X70?
The Jetour X70 starts at around $26,394 for the base model, with the X70 Plus ranging from $27,000 to $34,000, depending on the trim and market.
2. How many seats does the Jetour X70 have?
The X70 is available in 5- or 7-seater configurations, with the third row best suited for children or occasional use.
3. Is the Jetour X70 fuel-efficient?
Yes, the X70 averages 7.8–8.5 L/100 km with the 1.5-liter engine, making it a cost-effective option for daily driving.
4. What safety features does the Jetour X70 offer?
Standard features include ABS, ESP, and airbags, while higher trims add blind-spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera, and adaptive cruise control.
5. How does the Jetour X70 compare to the Chery Tiggo 8?
The X70 is slightly cheaper and has a more distinctive design, but the Tiggo 8 offers a more refined driving experience.
6. Is the Jetour X70 reliable?
While early feedback is positive, long-term reliability is still being established. The 5-year/150,000 km warranty and 10-year engine warranty provide reassurance.
7. Where can I buy the Jetour X70?
The X70 is available through Jetour dealerships in markets like South Africa, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Check with local dealers for availability.
Final Verdict: Is the Jetour X70 Worth It?
The Jetour X70 is a compelling choice for buyers seeking a budget-friendly mid-size SUV with a long list of features. Its modern design, spacious interior, and competitive pricing make it a strong contender in the crowded SUV market. While it may not match the driving dynamics of pricier rivals like the Toyota Fortuner or Hyundai Tucson, it offers exceptional value, a generous warranty, and a comfortable ride for families or those needing extra space.
If you prioritize affordability, tech, and practicality over brand prestige or off-road prowess, the Jetour X70 is worth a closer look. Its few shortcomings, like vague steering and limited third-row space, are outweighed by its strengths for budget-conscious buyers. Ready to see if it’s the right fit for you? Visit your local Jetour dealer for a test drive and explore the Jetour SUV lineup today!
