Driving the Jetour T2 Hybrid vs Petrol SUVs in the UAE

16 March 2026

With growing awareness of climate change, hybrid vehicles are attracting more interest than ever before. Amongst the many hybrid vehicle options available, the Jetour T2 i-DM, a Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), has emerged as a serious contender in the rugged SUV segment. For drivers considering the shift to a hybrid SUV, understanding how the T2 performs on UAE roads is key.

Petrol vs Hybrid Cars: What’s the Difference?

Petrol Engines

Petrol engines (known as gasoline engines in some countries) are traditional internal combustion engines that burn petrol to produce power. They operate on a four-stroke cycle - intake, compression, power, and exhaust - to move the car. Petrol engines are widely available, easy to maintain, and offer responsive performance, but they generally consume more fuel and produce higher emissions than hybrid alternatives.

Hybrid Engines

Hybrid vehicles combine a petrol engine with an electric motor and battery. The electric motor can assist the engine during acceleration, allow the car to run on electricity alone for short distances, and recover energy through regenerative braking. This combination improves fuel efficiency, lowers emissions, and provides quieter driving at low speeds.

Types of Hybrid Vehicles

While hybrid cars combine a petrol engine with an electric motor, the way they use these power sources varies. Broadly, there are four main types:

1. Mild Hybrids (MHEV)

• Cannot run on electric power alone.
• The electric motor assists the engine during acceleration or start-stop conditions.
• Improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions without adding much complexity or cost.

2. Full (Strong) Hybrids

• Can drive short distances on electric power alone.
• Combines engine and a motor for more efficient city driving.
• Uses regenerative braking to recharge the battery and switches smoothly between electric and petrol power.

3. Parallel Hybrids

• A subtype of full hybrids.
• Both the engine and motor are connected to the wheels and can drive the car independently or together.
• The electric motor handles low-speed driving, while the engine assists at higher speeds or during acceleration.

4. Series Hybrids

• Only the electric motor drives the wheels.
• The engine acts solely as a generator to charge the battery or provide electricity to the motor.
• Offers smooth, instant torque like an electric vehicle, making it ideal for short trips or steady-speed driving.

5. Plug-in Hybrids (PHEV)

• Features larger batteries that can be charged externally.
• Can run longer distances on electric power alone.
• Switches to hybrid mode when the battery is low, combining electric and petrol power for extended range.

Does a Hybrid’s Performance Change in UAE Heat?

The UAE’s extreme summer heat is one of the toughest environments any vehicle can face. Fortunately, today’s advanced automotive engineering has significantly reduced the challenges once associated with driving hybrid SUVs in temperatures soaring above 45°C. While extreme heat can impact the efficiency of any battery, Jetour describes theirs as “high-temperature tolerant”.

The T2 i-DM features a 3-speed hybrid transmission that integrates a 1.5L  turbo engine and dual electric motors, allowing it to switch seamlessly between power sources for continuous performance and self-charging efficiency. This advanced system delivers approximately 375 hp and 610 Nm of torque, significantly more than the standard petrol T2. This setup helps maintain consistent performance even in demanding conditions, while also reducing fuel consumption and emissions. 

It gets even better. The T2 i-DM can travel up to 140 km on a full EV charge. Combined with the petrol engine, the total range reaches around 800 km, making it practical for long drives in the UAE. Its Cell-to-Pack (CTP) battery technology also enables faster charging, extended battery life, and enhanced safety features that support reliability in high temperatures.

Is Hybrid Driving Suitable for Daily Use?

Daily driving in the UAE often involves dealing with congested roads, especially during rush hour. In conditions where vehicles spend a lot of time accelerating and braking, typical of traffic jams, hybrid systems are generally more efficient than traditional petrol engines because they can switch between electric and engine power.

The transition between the electric motor and the petrol engine is designed to be smooth and unobtrusive, allowing for efficient operation and a comfortable driving experience.

What Might Surprise Drivers When Making the Switch?

Switching from a traditional petrol SUV to the T2 i-DM might surprise drivers with its quiet, smooth operation. Without the usual engine vibration, driving feels more relaxed, especially in city traffic.

Beyond city streets, the T2 i-DM is also capable off-road, with a wading depth rated at 70 cm, proving that hybrid efficiency doesn’t come at the cost of rugged performance.

Additionally, the T2 i-DM offers an external power supply capability. Its charging port can power or recharge devices, making it ideal for camping, outdoor adventures, or any situation where extra electricity is needed. Combine this with the ability to fold the second-row seats to create a spacious, king-sized bed for ultimate comfort on the road!

For those considering a switch but are on the fence about purchasing a hybrid, leasing is a flexible way to get started. ART Elite Car Rental offers leasing options for the T2 i-DM, including registration, maintenance, and 24/7 roadside assistance. Explore our fleet of Jetour SUVs, or browse our complete range of vehicles to find the ideal car for your needs. 

Contact us and let our team help you get behind the wheel of your very own Jetour T2 i-DM hybrid!