Buyers of products with a low price tag usually manage their expectations. Since they shelled out a little less than what is seen with its competitors, they tend to overlook the other aspects like quality, or the package that comes with it.

Then, Chinese automakers started to enter the country by the numbers — offering vehicles at outrageously-low prices. So, does affordability still affect the product’s features? Let’s check out one of the relatively-new products in the market, the Jetour Dashing.

One of the four models that propelled the brand’s popularity since its local inception, the Dashing is considered one of Jetour Auto Philippines Incorporated’s (JAPI) famed nameplates in the country to date — thanks to its surprisingly-low price tag when it arrived.  

What does the compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) offer to the Philippine market? Let’s examine the model’s standard trim.

Dimension

The Jetour Dashing is 4,590 millimeters (mm) long; 1,900 mm wide; and 1,680 mm tall — numbers that would assure a commanding presence on the road.

Its 2,720-mm wheelbase and 160-mm ground clearance give occupants of the five-seater crossover sufficient leg-and headroom (even for those who are a little over six feet in height) as well as confidence on driving over speed bumps or abnormal urban road conditions.

The vehicle’s relatively-high ground clearance provides peace of mind against floodwaters that are expected to be present in the metropolis and suburban areas in the coming rainy season.

Exterior

In terms of aesthetics, the Jetour Dashing offers a futuristic look that would definitely catch attention.

Its front-end wears a linear layout, thanks to its LED daytime running lamps, checkered grille design flanked by the squared head- and fog lights.

At the side are bold lines and sharp edges that match the hidden door handles and 19-inch wheels wrapped with 235/55 radial tires — giving the crossover an athletic vibe.

More sporty details are fitted at the vehicle’s rear portion: the checkered flag taillamps, third brake lamp that splits the top spoiler, and lower bumper layout.

Interior

The Jetour Dashing offers a cavernous space complemented by a sporty ergonomic design.

Its soft-touch dashboard offers a clean look: it only has a 12.8-inch infotainment system and does not carry haptic keys for the air-conditioning system — making the arrangement contemporary. In addition, the touchscreen system is still not yet Android Auto or Apple Carplay-ready but offers the Carbit app.

While putting all the controls on the screen could be more towards catering to the younger generation, problems could arise should the display conk out.  

The center console has two docks, with one offering wireless fast charging. It also has two USB ports at the front (Type A and C) to ensure that mobile devices get juiced up while inside the car. A type-USB port is also placed at the back of the console and a cubby hole that can hold the device while charging.

The Chinese automaker also placed the hazard lamp button along with the gearshift lever — a bit unusual since it is where the handbrake system is usually located.

It is also outfitted with aesthetically-pleasing front-row bucket seats and steering wheel (with rollerball-type controls), comfortable rear bench, as well as a panoramic sunroof.

Space-wise, the Jetour Dashing gives sufficient head- leg-, and elbow room that can fit at least four six footers inside its cabin.

Its versatile trunk comes with a tonneau cover to ensure that cargoes are covered from prying eyes.

Powertrain

Under the hood of the Jetour Dashing is a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that has peak output of 148 horses and 230 Newton-meters of pulling power. Power is sent to the two front wheels via a six-speed wet dual clutch type gearbox.

Driven around Metro Manila, the Jetour Dashing gives enough output for a quick jump when in Sport mode and sips around seven kilometers per liter under snarling traffic conditions — meeting what is expected for its size.

Technologies

Just like the other members of the Jetour lineup, the Jetour Dashing has a myriad of technologies that users will surely love.

Among its driver assistive features are the lateral and backward collision warning, 360-degree panoramic visual parking assist, and 180-degree transparent chassis.

Meanwhile, its safety technologies consist of anti-lock braking with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, traction control, hill descent control, and dynamic park assist — among others.

Pros, cons

The Jetour Dashing poses a strong competition in the compact crossover segment. Despite being the more affordable sub-brand under Chery, the vehicle is heavy in features and amenities.

It has some quirks in terms of ergonomics, but once you get past those, there’s a strong chance that you will consider getting the vehicle.

Priced at P1.3.73 million, the Jetour Dashing can be had in Black, White, Grey, Blue, and Red.

Photos from Ruben Manahan IV

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