The Jetour X90 Plus 1.6 TGDI (197 Hp) DCT is a mid-size crossover SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer Jetour, beginning in September 2021. Positioned as a higher-specification variant within the X90 Plus range, it aimed to offer a blend of performance, technology, and spaciousness in a competitive segment of the Chinese automotive market. The X90 Plus represents Jetour’s attempt to establish itself as a significant player in the SUV market, offering a more premium experience compared to its earlier models. This particular configuration, featuring the 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injection (TGDI) engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a more dynamic driving experience than the base engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jetour |
| Model | X90 Plus |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TGDI (197 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | China 6B |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 197 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 123.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm (213.89 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRF4J16 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1631-1666 kg (3595.74 – 3672.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 534-569 kg (1177.27 – 1254.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 104 l (3.67 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1052 l (37.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal) |
| Length | 4858 mm (191.26 in.) |
| Width | 1925 mm (75.79 in.) |
| Height | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1600-1610 mm (62.99 – 63.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605-1615 mm (63.19 – 63.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 906 mm (35.67 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1102 mm (43.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 210 mm (8.27 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 20° |
| Departure angle | 19° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R19; 255/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 19; 8J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the X90 Plus 1.6 TGDI is the SQRF4J16 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The engine produces 197 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 4000 rpm. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) provides quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to a more responsive driving experience. DCTs are known for their efficiency and ability to deliver power more directly than traditional automatic transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 TGDI engine and DCT combination delivers a noticeable improvement in performance compared to the lower-powered engine options available in the X90 Plus range. Acceleration is brisk, making it suitable for highway merging and overtaking maneuvers. The DCT provides quick shifts, and the turbocharger provides a good amount of low-end torque. While not a sports SUV, the X90 Plus 1.6 TGDI offers a more engaging driving experience than its naturally aspirated counterparts. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides adequate traction in most conditions, but may struggle in slippery environments. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, but it can feel somewhat soft during spirited driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The X90 Plus 1.6 TGDI typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features, reflecting its position as a higher-trim level. These often included leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras could include upgraded sound systems, premium interior trim materials, and additional safety features. The interior design focused on providing a modern and spacious cabin, with seating for up to seven passengers depending on the configuration.
Chassis & Braking
The X90 Plus utilizes an independent suspension setup at all four corners, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration aims to balance ride comfort and handling. The front suspension incorporates a coil spring and anti-roll bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to enhance safety. The steering system is a rack and pinion setup with electric power assistance, providing a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Jetour X90 Plus 1.6 TGDI was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and competitive pricing. Critics noted the improved performance offered by the 1.6 TGDI engine compared to the base engine options. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to other similarly priced SUVs in the Chinese market, the X90 Plus offered a compelling package of features and performance. However, some reviewers pointed out that the interior materials and build quality were not quite on par with established international brands.
Legacy
The Jetour X90 Plus 1.6 TGDI represents a significant step forward for Jetour in terms of design, technology, and performance. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the SQRF4J16 engine has proven to be relatively robust in other Jetour models. On the used car market, the X90 Plus 1.6 TGDI offers a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious and well-equipped SUV. Its combination of performance, features, and affordability makes it a competitive option in the mid-size crossover segment.
