3 Minutes
Chery ups the ante with a powerful new Traveller C-DM
Chery has unveiled the 2026 Jetour Traveller line in China, introducing refreshed petrol models and a headline-grabbing hybrid: the Traveller C-DM. Available from November 17, the new Traveller keeps a rugged, boxy silhouette but adds a much stronger powertrain lineup — including a three-motor hybrid system that pushes output to 455 hp and 700 Nm of torque.
Powertrains and performance
Buyers can choose between conventional petrol engines or the advanced plug-in hybrid (PHEV) layout:
- Petrol options: a 1.5-liter turbo with 181 hp or a 2.0-liter turbo producing 250 hp, both mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
- Traveller C-DM (hybrid): based around a 1.5-liter petrol engine (154 hp) paired with electric motors. Lower trims use a dual-motor setup (combined electric output around 221 hp and 390 Nm), while higher trims employ a three-motor configuration delivering a combined 455 hp and 700 Nm.
The hybrid system features a 3-speed DHT hybrid gearbox and Chery’s XWD intelligent all-wheel-drive system, aimed at improving efficiency and off-road capability. Battery capacity ranges from 26.7 to 43.24 kWh depending on trim, yielding pure-electric ranges between about 120 and 208 km — a strong figure for a large SUV and especially notable for customers seeking long EV-only trips.
Design, dimensions and interior
The Traveller retains its angular, off-road-ready styling but introduces subtler details: a simplified fog-light area, removal of the vertical chrome strip, and unique features on the hybrid such as a side-mounted spare wheel, clear vertical rear lights and a rectangular graphic on the rear bumper. Dimensions have grown slightly compared to the previous model: 4,810 mm long, 2,006 mm wide and 1,875 mm tall, riding on a 2,800 mm wheelbase.
Inside, Chery offers practical touches focused on comfort and utility: a black headliner, panoramic sunroof, rear privacy glass, traditional door handles and fixed running boards on the long-wheelbase versions.
Pricing and market positioning
Prices start at 139,900 yuan (roughly $19,600) for petrol variants. The new Traveller C-DM replaces the Shanhai T2 and is priced near 179,900 yuan (about $25,200). Petrol Travellers aim at mainstream compact-SUV rivals such as the Honda CR-V and Nissan X-Trail, while the C-DM positions itself against more rugged, off-road styled competitors like the Haval Dragon and Beijing BJ40.
Highlights:
- Up to 455 hp and 700 Nm in three-motor hybrid form
- EV-only range up to 208 km
- 26.7–43.24 kWh battery options
- Competitive pricing for value-focused buyers
"The Traveller C-DM shows Chery's push to blend practical off-road styling with cutting-edge hybrid tech," says an industry analyst. For buyers who want SUV presence, serious power and credible electric range, the Jetour Traveller lineup has suddenly become much more compelling.
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