The younger titos have a different taste from the first-gen titos. They're not all-in to midsize SUVs, they like oversized shirts but with decent-fitting jeans, and they hang-out in gas stations along the expressways just because.

Such is the case with the Jetour T2. First-gen titos may quickly pass up on it once they find out it doesn’t have a diesel engine. However for the millennial tito, the Jetour T2 ticks a lot of boxes in their car checklist. It stands out in the crowd, it’s kitted well with modern amenities, and has a lot of potential for accessorizing that can make it truly yours. That’s why I jumped on the opportunity to drive it when given the chance. I want to know if it’s just a looker or can it back it up with functionality?

It undoubtedly looks good, but a closer look will reveal that Jetour prioritized aesthetics this time around. From the headlights itself, why make the effort for the segmented DRL? Why have bigger wheel arcs when there’s already protruding overfenders? Why are the taillights and third brake light slim? Why is the spare tire cover square-ish? Why are the accents neon green? This continues in the cabin once you find out most controls are in the touchscreen, the electronic parking brake button is under the left aircon vent, and the key fob is square. All of these decisions were made because it made for a great looking and unique SUV.

While the T2’s form is exceptional inside and out, the functionality of the cabin can be subjective. For starters, the ports in the front area are under the center console which is hard to reach. Personally, I maintain a dedicated cable in the car so for the T2, it’s only a hassle if I have to keep plugging and unplugging the cable since I don’t own it. This is offset by the relatively fast wireless charger. The biggest compromise to aesthetic though is the lack of buttons as they are now housed in the touchscreen interface. I’ll admit though, just one hour with the T2 and I didn’t feel alienated with its touchscreen-centric orientation.

Things like the side mirror adjustment and auto brake hold are a set-and-forget deal. The fan speed was easy to adjust, thanks to the gigantic 15.6-inch touchscreen. Also, I have the option of automatic climate control so I don’t have to deal with changing the fan speed if the outside conditions change. I didn’t find the need for the electronic parking brake button since pressing P on the shifter will activate it as well. Jetour also nicely categorized the controls in the touchscreen so that anything I need would be easy to find. If you have a smartphone and can find your Wi-Fi and Notification controls there, you’ll find the Jetour T2 easy to operate as well. That’s how great the interface is.

The Jetour T2 is a mild-mannered brute in a suit once you take it out on the road. Jetour did their homework in making the T2 very comfortable in both driving and riding. Despite the huge panoramic sunroof on top, the cabin is so quiet that wind noise only starts getting very audible beyond the speed limit. In fact, the world seems to shut off once you close the door. Not even the customized exhausts from motorcycles will be annoying when you’re inside the Jetour T2.

The driving dynamics are also in contrast with the T2’s looks. I don’t know for others but I expected it to be throttle happy with its 251 horsepower and 390 Nm of pull. Instead, the acceleration is very controlled and shifting is very smooth. I even thought it had a CVT because of how smooth it is. Riding comfort is very comfortable even with 5 people inside the car thanks to its soft suspension and abundant space in both rows. The best thing about it is how the T2 manages body roll for its size. It’s not all over the place when taking corners at speed which adds to the comfort of the occupants in the car.

Unfortunately, our drive with the Jetour T2 didn’t have any off-roading involved. I was very eager to know how it will handle the lahar of Pampanga since many who will buy this would probably take it to Lake Mapanuepe in Zambales. I guess that’s for another drive.

Fuel efficiency would also have to wait. During our drive from QC to Clark, we arrived at a 10.2 km/L figure. But that’s 2 drivers with different throttle styles, a stressful drive in the expressway thanks to root crops, and stopovers with the car still running.

Overall, I see the Jetour T2 as a very compelling choice at P 2,498,000. Some will surely say they’d rather go for a mid-sized SUV at that price and sure, you may do so. The Jetour T2 makes no apologies for that because it knows it’s wanted elsewhere. It's for those who do not have extended family members or adventurous individuals who prioritize looks, comfort, and space over anything.