All-new 2026 Jetour T2 launched in Malaysia, CKD at RM156k for Defender-inspired rugged SUV

Another month, another SUV launch in Malaysia. But every once in a while, something arrives that genuinely breaks the mould. Enter the Jetour T2, just unveiled for a very attractive RM156,8000. It’s a rugged, boxy off-roader that looks like it has just rolled out of an expedition convoy rather than the office parking lot. 

In a market increasingly dominated by electrified powertrains and sleek crossover designs, the T2 plots a different path. There’s no hybrid system here and certainly no full EV drivetrain. Instead, the T2 keeps things refreshingly old-school: a turbocharged petrol engine under the bonnet and a humble 12-volt battery running the show.

Unsurprisingly, the T2 emerges onto our market with a certain other off-road capable SUV squarely in its crosshairs: the GWM Tank 300. However, unlike that fully imported model, this newest Jetour comes locally assembled and manages to slash close to RM100k off from the asking price of its nearest rival. While it may look like a rival to the Tank 300, its pricing is actually closer to mainstream SUVs like the Honda CR-V and the Jaecoo J7.

The first hints of its arrival surfaced in late 2024 when the model was revealed during Jetour’s Global Travel+ Conference in Fuzhou, China. At the time, the SUV’s rugged styling immediately caught the attention of enthusiasts looking for something more adventurous than the typical urban crossover. Prior to today, bookings officially kicked off in November of 2025. And by December, final local specifications were confirmed to the public. Since then, Jetour says over 2,000 customers have been cultivated. 

As mentioned, the locally assembled (CKD) T2 carries a headline price of RM156,800. Early adopters will also have something extra to smile about with the first 3,000 registrations qualifying for a RM2,000 cash rebate, effectively bringing the price down to RM154,800. 

Jetour is also throwing in a generous ownership package. Buyers get five free scheduled services covering both labour and parts, along with a seven-year / 150,000 km vehicle warranty. The powertrain warranty stretches even further, at an impressive 10 years or one million kilometres.

Also known as the Traveller in some markets, the T2 embraces a bold aesthetic inspired by classic off-roaders. Its squared-off proportions, upright stance and chunky detailing evoke the spirit of icons like the Land Rover Defender and the Ford Bronco.

Looks alone aren’t the T2’s only party trick. Beneath the upright bonnet sits a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 245 PS (180 kW) and 375 Nm of torque, with the latter available from a low 1,750 rpm.

If that sounds familiar, the engine is shared with the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, although the tuning differs slightly here. Power is delivered through a seven-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission complete with paddle shifters, and the Malaysian-spec model comes standard with all-wheel drive. The T2 markets this as Intelligent XWD with 7+ drive modes (Normal, Eco, Sport, Snow, Rock, Sand and X-Mode).

In terms of size, the five-seat T2 is no compact crossover, measuring 4,785 mm long, 2,006 mm wide, and 1,870 mm tall. For context, that makes it 63 mm longer, 146 mm wider, and 165 mm taller than the Tiggo 8 Pro. The 2,800 mm wheelbase also surpasses the Tiggo 8 Pro’s by 90 mm, promising generous cabin room. For reference, the GWM Tank 300 measures 4,760mm from nose to tail, is 1,930mm wide, 1,903mm tall, and carries a wheelbase of 2,750mm.

At the rear of the T2, a side-hinged tailgate opens to reveal 580 litres of cargo capacity, expandable to 1,494 litres when the rear seats are folded down. There’s even a soft-close feature, on the side-opening tailgate.

Despite its tough image and claimed 700 mm wading depth, the T2 isn’t built on a traditional ladder-frame chassis. Instead, it uses a unibody construction, unlike the body-on-frame setup of the Tank 300. In some global markets the T2 is even available with front-wheel drive, though Malaysia gets the more capable AWD configuration. The right call, in our opinion.
Inside, the cabin blends rugged design cues with modern tech. Drivers are greeted by a 10.25-inch digital instrument display and a large 15.6-inch central touchscreen embedded within the angular dashboard.

The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a 12-speaker Sony audio system provides the soundtrack. Elsewhere its 360-degree camera system, including an underbody view, helps with off-road manoeuvres. Safety is also well covered thoroughly as the T2 carries a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating, six airbags and a full Level 2 ADAS suite. The SUV rides on 19-inch wheels wrapped in 255/60 Giti all-terrain tyres.

Buyers can choose from three exterior colours: Khaki White, Aviation Silver, and Hero Black — the latter clearly intended to highlight the SUV’s bold styling.

Comfort equipment is equally generous. Both front seats are power-adjustable, ventilated, and equipped with memory and welcome functions. Other highlights include dual-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, faux leather upholstery, a 50W wireless charging pad, and a panoramic glass roof.

Compared with earlier preview units, the production model gets several subtle changes. The illuminated grille lettering now uses clear plastic rather than chrome, and the lime green accents previously seen on the wheels have been removed.

For buyers who want something more distinctive than the usual family crossover, the T2’s boxy design, rugged personality and extensive equipment list could make it a compelling alternative. And for enthusiasts who enjoy personalising their vehicles, the T2’s squared-off styling and adventure-ready image suggest plenty of modding potential - proof that sometimes, an SUV launch can still feel a little bit exciting.