Akmal Azhar
The Jetour Dashing, an ambitious compact SUV from Chery’s sub-brand Jetour, enters the competitive automotive market with bold styling, a refined interior, and an impressive suite of features. Aimed at younger, tech-savvy urban buyers, the Dashing delivers a combination of premium aesthetics, modern technology, and solid driving dynamics, all while being competitively priced. But beneath all the flash and promise lies a surprisingly frustrating omission that may irk some everyday users.
The exterior of the Jetour Dashing is perhaps its strongest visual asset. It’s aggressive, sporty, and futuristic, bearing design elements that wouldn’t look out of place on a concept car.
Its sharply sculpted lines, LED lighting signature, wide grille, and muscular stance make a strong first impression. With a fastback-style roofline and hidden rear door handles, it radiates youthful energy and confidence, helping it stand out in a sea of conservative SUV designs.
Premium Cabin With a Modern Touch
Inside, the cabin continues the upscale narrative. The dashboard features a sweeping, minimalist design highlighted by a unified digital panel combining the instrument cluster and central infotainment screen. Materials feel premium, with soft-touch surfaces and leatherette upholstery lending a touch of luxury to the interior.
Ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof (in higher trims) further enhance the premium ambiance. Comfort-wise, the Dashing impresses with spacious front seats and generous second-row legroom, a benefit of its long wheelbase.
Packed With Practical Tech and Safety Features
Technology is another highlight. The infotainment system is sharp, responsive, and intuitive, with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A voice command system, wireless charging, and a surround-view camera system further raise its appeal. Jetour has also equipped the Dashing with a full suite of active safety features,
Including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and autonomous emergency braking. These systems work reliably, bringing peace of mind to drivers without feeling intrusive.
Refined Driving Experience With Turbo Power
On the road, the Jetour Dashing delivers a smooth and composed experience. Powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing 197 horsepower and 290 Nm of torque, it offers brisk acceleration and capable highway cruising.
The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission generally performs well, although some hesitation in stop-start traffic is noticeable. Ride comfort is tuned for daily usability, absorbing bumps and potholes with composure, though spirited cornering reveals some body roll — an expected trade-off for a comfort-oriented setup.
Fuel Efficiency and Everyday Practicality
In terms of efficiency, the Dashing performs respectably. Real-world fuel consumption typically ranges from 7.5 to 8.0 liters per 100 kilometers, depending on traffic and driving behavior. The boot space is practical for daily needs and weekend trips, while foldable rear seats add flexibility for larger cargo loads.
The Cup Holder Conundrum: A Minor But Real Inconvenience
Despite the overall high marks, one oddly inconvenient design decision mars the otherwise thoughtful interior. The Jetour Dashing offers only one cup holder in the center console. Positioned beside the gear selector, this single cup holder is functional but limiting, particularly for families or drivers who regularly travel with a front passenger. In an era where convenience is king and SUVs are designed around everyday usability, the lack of a second front cup holder feels like an oversight.
While rear passengers get cup holders in the fold-down armrest, the front section — where most daily use occurs — suffers from this surprising absence. It’s a small flaw, but one that can impact comfort during long drives or even regular commutes.
Conclusion: Stylish and Smart, But Not Without Quirks
In conclusion, the Jetour Dashing is an impressive package that confidently challenges more established names in its segment. It boasts head-turning design, a refined and tech-savvy interior, solid performance, and plenty of modern safety equipment. For buyers looking for a premium feel without a premium price, the Dashing makes a compelling case.
However, the curious omission of a second front cup holder serves as a reminder that even the most promising cars can stumble on the smallest details. Still, for many, that minor flaw won’t outweigh the value, style, and comfort that the Jetour Dashing brings to the table.
Yusri Ng
Zakirin
