The Chery brand has only just made its way back to Australia after a false start nearly a decade ago, but are we about to see it bring a sub-brand with it?
Chinese motoring media is reporting Chery’s sub-brand Jetour, which sells several SUVs aimed at relatively young buyers in China, has revealed the Jetour Traveller SUV; the production version of its T-X concept from a year ago.
The Jetour Traveller was most recently referred to as the T-1 during testing, but now images show a car that looks like its design has been inspired by the likes of the Ford Bronco and the Land Rover Defender.
In terms of its interior, the brand has taken a minimalistic and rugged approach to the consoles and the steering wheel, while a large central screen appears to house all the Traveller’s multimedia and climate functions.
The Jetour Traveller will also come with an all-wheel-drive hybrid drivetrain, with a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine assisted by an electric motor.
Two petrol options, also AWD, will be available as turbo 1.6- or 2.0-litre four-cylinder variants.
CarsGuide has contacted Chery Australia for more information on the Jetour sub-brand, but a spokesperson for the brand said Jetour operates as a separate business entity to Chery Motor.
It seems this would, until further notice, rule out Jetour’s presence in Australia unless the brand itself makes a move.
The Jetour Traveller’s design is inspired by the Ford Bronco and Land Rover Defender.“Chery Motor will most certainly be growing our presence and model range in Australia, however,” we were told.
Chery relaunched in Australia this month after a 10-year hiatus, and kicked off its local assault with the Omoda 5 small SUV – a rival for the MG ZS and Nissan Qashqai.
CarsGuide has also been previously told by Chery’s then marketing manager for Australia Zoe Zhang that Chery has “many products, and all will be considered for the Australian market”.
Keyword: China's hybrid Ford Bronco or Land Rover Defender? Chery sub-brand's Jetour Traveller SUV is China's answer to stylish off-roading