In the Russian market, Chinese cars continue to gain popularity, and the Jetour T1 has become one of the main new releases of recent months. The model attracts attention with its somewhat rough shapes, off-road styling, and an attempt to give a compact crossover the traits of a classic SUV. Its main opponent in the test is the Haval H7 — a vehicle that from the very start was positioned as a combination of crossover versatility and off-road endurance, and which has already managed to win buyers' recognition.
The junior T1 model inherited the engine and transmission from the larger T2, but lost the direct resemblance to the Land Rover Defender. Externally, it looks distinctive, although some elements resemble the Haval Dargo. The list price of the T1 ranges from 3.77 to 3.95 million rubles, while the H7 is offered from 3.349 to 3.749 million rubles. Taking discounts into account, the cost of the cars evens out, and the choice mainly depends on the driver's impressions and preferences.
If the Jetour T1 was conceived as a more "civilian" crossover with increased off-road ability, then the Haval H7 gives the impression of a brutal and solid SUV. The latter has a ground clearance of 200 mm versus 190 mm for the T1, while hidden towing eyes and massive bumpers reinforce the sense of readiness for off-road terrain. At the same time, the T1 looks taller, but psychologically it is the H7 that makes you want to set off on an adventure.
The H7 interior stands out for its high beltline and massive controls that are convenient to use even while wearing gloves. Physical buttons and large knobs create the feeling of an armored vehicle, while built-in Yandex services make the multimedia system fast and convenient to use. In the T1, navigation and music are controlled via CarPlay or Android Auto, while the system's response feels slower.
The Jetour T1 cabin is finished in a lighter, more spacious style, with elegant eco-leather and large glass surfaces. The interior looks solid and "urban," and the fixed side steps make entry easier, unlike in the H7. The rear rows of both vehicles offer sufficient space, but the T1 wins in cargo compartment volume and the organization of underfloor compartments, while the H7 has only a cargo cover.
The T1 suspension is firmer, which improves handling on the highway, while the steering in Sport mode adds feedback. The H7, meanwhile, feels heavier and more stable on poor asphalt, although noise from the mirrors, front pillars, and tires is more noticeable. In city driving, the dynamics of both vehicles are similar, the difference in power is barely felt, and both crossovers accelerate easily up to 100 km/h.
The electronic assistants work in a limited way: adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and emergency braking function correctly, while the other systems can be safely switched off. The Jetour T1 has an "intrusive" turning assistant and notifications about traffic moving ahead that may annoy the driver, whereas the H7 allows separate control of audible alerts.
In off-road conditions, both crossovers show decent capability. The H7, with a rear differential lock, seems better prepared for extreme conditions, but the T1, thanks to its exposed tow loop and well-thought-out electronics, easily handles rocky slopes and snowdrifts. Both vehicles tackle cross-axle articulation and snowy climbs confidently, although the H7 does so a bit more roughly. From the point of view of everyday use, the T1 is more focused on the city and comfort, while the H7 inspires the desire to go on adventures.