JSW Combat launch and expected price for Indian buyers

JSW Motors is preparing to enter the SUV market with the Combat, a five-seat plug-in hybrid based on the Chery Jetour T2. It is expected to arrive in India around the festive season, so buyers considering a rugged SUV in this segment now have another model to keep an eye on.

JSW Combat expected price

The Combat is expected to be priced in the Rs 30 lakh-50 lakh ex-showroom range, although this is not a confirmed price. That would put it against the strong-hybrid Honda ZR-V, while its upright SUV design could also attract buyers considering the Toyota Fortuner.

For someone shopping in this price bracket, the important point is that the Combat is planned as a plug-in hybrid rather than a conventional petrol or strong-hybrid SUV. The final Indian pricing and equipment will matter a lot once JSW confirms the model.

Jetour T2 design and features

The Combat is expected to stay close to the Jetour T2 visually, with changes to the headlamps, grille and bumpers along with JSW branding. The design includes a boxy body, 20-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, vertically positioned LED tail-lamps and a rear-mounted spare wheel.

The expected cabin equipment is also substantial:

• 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen
• 10.6-inch digital driver's display
• 12-speaker sound system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Panoramic sunroof
• 540-degree camera system

Combat plug-in hybrid powertrain

The expected setup uses a 1.5-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol engine with two electric motors and an 18.4kWh battery. In the global-spec Jetour T2, this combination produces 360hp and 610Nm, with power sent to the front wheels through a 3-speed dedicated hybrid transmission. The Combat is expected to use front-wheel drive.

The global T2's 18.4kWh battery has a claimed NEDC electric range of 90km, while combined driving range is rated at 1,200km. Charging from 30 to 100 percent takes around three hours with a 6.6kW AC charger, while 30 to 80 percent takes 27 minutes using a 50kW DC charger. These figures are from the global T2 and the Indian Combat's final specifications are still to be confirmed.

Would you consider the JSW Combat over a Fortuner or Honda ZR-V if the expected pricing holds?