JSW Motors Limited, the passenger vehicle arm of the JSW Group, is preparing to enter the Indian car market with its very first SUV before Diwali 2026. This marks a major milestone for the conglomerate as it steps into the highly competitive SUV space with a globally proven product, adapted specifically for Indian buyers. The company has also confirmed that a second model will follow in 2027, strengthening its long-term commitment to the passenger mobility segment in India.
Local Assembly to Begin From August 2026
JSW Motors has confirmed that production of its first SUV will begin in August 2026 through local assembly. Initially, the company will assemble the vehicle in India and then rapidly scale localisation. By October 2026, JSW aims to achieve nearly 80 percent localisation, which is expected to play a key role in competitive pricing and long-term cost efficiency.
According to the company, major components such as the battery pack, electric motor, steel for body-in-white parts, seats, glass, tyres and other critical elements will be locally sourced. This aggressive localisation strategy highlights JSW’s focus on building a strong manufacturing ecosystem within India rather than relying heavily on imports.
First JSW SUV to Be Based on Jetour T2
The first product from JSW Motors will be based on the Jetour T2 SUV, a model that is already sold in several international markets. However, the India-bound version will carry a JSW badge and will be sold independently, separate from the existing JSW–MG partnership. This move allows JSW Motors to establish its own brand identity in the passenger vehicle space.
While the core architecture and design inspiration will come from the Jetour T2, the India-spec model is expected to receive market-specific tuning, features and specifications to better suit local conditions and customer preferences.
Boxy and Rugged SUV Design With Monocoque Platform
The Jetour T2-based JSW SUV features a bold, upright and boxy design that immediately gives it a strong road presence. Its styling is reminiscent of iconic rugged SUVs like the Land Rover Defender, with squared-off proportions, short overhangs and a tall stance.
Despite its tough and off-road-ready appearance, the SUV is built on a monocoque chassis rather than a traditional ladder-frame platform. This construction approach typically helps improve ride comfort, handling and on-road dynamics while still maintaining a robust visual appeal.
Bigger Than Midsize SUVs, With Multiple Seating Options
In global markets, the Jetour T2 is offered in both 5-seat and extended 7-seat configurations. The 5-seater version measures roughly 4.7 metres in length and around 2 metres in width, making it significantly larger than popular midsize SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. It even has a bigger footprint than vehicles such as the Tata Safari.
For India, JSW Motors has not yet confirmed whether both seating layouts will be offered. However, given the strong demand for spacious SUVs, a 7-seat option could help the brand attract family-oriented buyers looking for something larger and more premium.
Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain Planned for India
JSW Motors has clearly indicated that its India strategy will focus on electrified powertrains, and the first SUV will arrive as a plug-in hybrid. The Jetour T2 i-DM plug-in hybrid system combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with electric motors to deliver a balance of performance, efficiency and lower emissions.
Internationally, the T2 i-DM is available with both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options. However, JSW has not yet confirmed which drivetrain configuration will be introduced in India. The final decision is likely to depend on cost, localisation feasibility and market demand.
Modern Cabin With Premium and Tech-Heavy Features
Inside, the JSW Jetour T2-based SUV is expected to offer a modern and comfort-focused cabin. The global-spec model features a dual-screen layout that includes a large central touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital driver’s display. This setup gives the cabin a clean and high-tech feel.
Premium features such as ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging, panoramic sunroof and dual-zone automatic climate control are also expected. Higher variants may offer multi-colour ambient lighting, a premium sound system and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
In keeping with its rugged image, the SUV also gets a rotary drive mode selector with multiple terrain-focused modes, enhancing its appeal for buyers who want an SUV that looks adventurous while remaining comfortable for daily use.
Expected Price and Market Positioning in India
JSW Motors has confirmed that its first SUV will be priced between ₹15 lakh and ₹30 lakh, placing it above the midsize SUV segment. This positioning suggests that the vehicle will target buyers looking for something larger, more distinctive and more premium than mass-market SUVs.
For reference, the Jetour T2 i-DM is priced at around ₹35 lakh in markets like the UAE. With high levels of localisation in India, JSW Motors is expected to price the SUV more aggressively, making it an attractive alternative to established players in the premium SUV space.
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What Is Jetour and Why It Matters for JSW
Jetour is an SUV-focused brand owned by Chinese automotive giant Chery and was launched in 2018. The brand has a growing presence across China, the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia and Latin America. Its products are known for combining bold SUV styling with modern technology and competitive pricing.
For JSW Motors, using the Jetour T2 as its first product provides a strong foundation to build a broader, JSW-branded passenger vehicle portfolio in India. With a second model already planned for 2027, the company is clearly aiming for a steady and scalable entry into the Indian automotive market.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming JSW SUV based on the Jetour T2 could become one of the most talked-about launches of 2026. With its rugged design, plug-in hybrid powertrain, high localisation levels and competitive pricing strategy, it has the potential to disrupt the premium SUV segment in India. As Diwali 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on JSW Motors to see how it delivers on its ambitious plans.