The adventure scooter (ADV) market in Malaysia has been further enlivened by the arrival of a new contender, the Aveta Vanguard 250 2025, built on the Piaggio Nexus 250 platform.
The Vanguard 250 features a single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 244.2 cc, capable of producing a power output of 24.8 hp at 8,500 rpm and a torque of 22.5 Nm at 6,500 rpm, and is equipped with a Bosch fuel injection system.
It offers features specifically designed for adventure and touring enthusiasts, such as a high ground clearance, adjustable windscreen height, adjustable handlebars, an ergonomic seat (with a height of 780 mm), a 13-liter fuel tank capacity, and a storage compartment under the seat with a capacity of 23.5 liters.
Two variants are available for the local market.
The base Standard variant is equipped with 33 mm telescopic front forks, dual rear shock absorbers, a braking system featuring a floating caliper, a 260 mm front rotor, a 240 mm rear rotor, and 14-inch rims at the front and 13-inch at the rear.
Meanwhile, the Special Edition (SE) variant comes with more premium features, such as 37 mm telescopic forks, gas dual rear shock absorbers, a four-piston front brake rotor, a two-piston rear brake rotor, and a combination of 15-inch rims at the front and 14-inch at the rear (with tire sizes of 120/70-15 and 140/70-14).
Additionally, it is equipped with a seven-inch TFT screen with support for connectivity to smart devices, as well as a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Both variants come with a two-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and a traction control system (TCS) that can be disabled (disable function only for SE) for smoother riding on various terrains.
For the Malaysian market, the Vanguard 250 Standard is available in Nano Grey, with a starting price of RM14,888, while the SE variant, priced at RM16,388, comes in Majestic Green and Titanium Grey.
Each purchase includes a warranty of two years or a mileage limit of 20,000 km, whichever comes first.
In conjunction with the launch, Aveta Malaysia is offering a special promotional price of RM14,488 for the Standard variant and RM15,988 for the SE variant, limited to the first 200 units.
Effective January 1, 2025, Audi Malaysia has announced a new retail price list for its range of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs).
The new pricing structure also includes the Audi Assurance Package, which now offers a five-year maintenance service (up from three years in the previous package), along with a five-year warranty (with a mileage limit of 150,000 km) and five years of roadside assistance.
The following is the new pricing for the 2025 model year vehicles involved:
Audi Q3 Sportback S line 2.0 TFSI quattro – RM358,990
Audi Q5 Sportback S line 2.0 TFSI quattro – RM388,490
Audi e-tron GT quattro with Dynamic Package – RM412,890
Audi SQ8 Sportback e-tron quattro – RM511,990
Audi RS e-tron GT – RM515,290
Audi A7 Sportback S line 3.0 TFSI quattro – RM740,390
Audi A8 S line 3.0 TFSI quattro – RM1,103,790
Audi RS6 Avant Performance 4.0 TFSI quattro – RM1,338,690
For a limited time, from January 1 to February 28, 2025, there are eight vehicle models offered at special prices (excluding AAP), as follows:
Audi A3 S line 2.0 TFSI – RM279,990
Audi Q8 e-tron advanced 50 quattro – RM339,990
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron advanced 50 quattro – RM349,990
Audi Q8 e-tron S line 55 quattro – RM373,990
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron S line 55 quattro – RM382,990
Audi A5 Sportback S line 2.0 TFSI quattro – RM419,990
Audi RS3 Sedan 2.5 TFSI quattro – RM499,990
Audi RS Q8 4.0 TFSI quattro – RM1,400,000
For more information regarding the price list, special offers, and the Audi Assurance Package, please visit www.audi.com.my or visit your nearest Audi Centre.
PETRONAS Lubricants International has recently launched the PETRONAS Urania Light Commercial Vehicle engine oil for the local market.
Formulated with StrongTech™ technology, the PETRONAS Urania LCV engine oil provides benefits for light commercial vehicle owners, such as longer usage intervals without the need for frequent servicing, thereby reducing maintenance costs.
Additionally, it offers superior performance in various driving conditions, including daily operations, fleet management, and more extreme off-road challenges.
Three viscosity grades are available to meet diverse needs, as follows:
PETRONAS Urania 5000 LCV LA 5W-30
PETRONAS Urania 3000 LCV LA 10W-40
PETRONAS Urania 3000 LCV 15W-40
The PETRONAS Urania LCV engine oil is now available at all authorized dealers, PETRONAS AutoExpert service centers, partner workshops, and PETRONAS fuel stations nationwide.
If you were given enough money to buy a Honda Civic Type R FL5, would you choose that model?
Or are you actually more inclined to acquire a classic Type R model – like this Civic Type R EK9?
The bidding website Bring A Trailer has listed a Honda Civic Type R hatchback of the EK9 generation that was imported into the United States last year.
It features the iconic Championship White color and has only a mileage of around 53,000 km!
Unlike most owners, this Civic Type R EK9 retains its original specifications as it came out of the factory in 1998.
The original 15-inch rims are still present, though they are now wrapped in Hankook Ventus V2 Concept2 tires.
The cabin space also still retains the Recaro sport seats upholstered in red fabric and microfiber, along with red carpeting and a Momo steering wheel.
When new, the original inline-four B16B 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine could produce a power output of up to 182 hp and 160 Nm, paired with a five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential.
As of the time this article was written, the bidding price for this EK9 has already reached US$42,000 (RM189,000), nearly matching the selling price of the FL5 Type R in the United States, which starts at US$46,690 (RM210,152)
Do you like the original VTEC roar or the power delivery from the much more modern and powerful VTEC turbo?
At the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, Hyundai unveiled a unique collaboration in the form of the high-performance electric crossover, the IONIQ 5 N DK Edition.
As the name suggests, the IONIQ 5 N DK Edition is a result of a partnership with Keiichi Tsuchiya, known as the Drift King, along with Hyundai N and accessory manufacturer Autobacs.
The DK Edition is offered as an upgrade package that allows IONIQ 5 N owners to enjoy a more exhilarating driving experience both on the road and on the track.
Among the high-performance components included are a set of lightweight 21-inch wheels, six-piston monoblock brake calipers, and springs that lower the vehicle’s height by 15 mm.
The appearance of this fast crossover is enhanced with specially designed aerodynamic components such as a front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser, and rear wing, all made from carbon fiber.
According to Hyundai, the DK Edition package provides improved cornering performance, more stable driving and handling, as well as enhanced stopping power.
No details have been revealed regarding the tuning made to the IONIQ 5 N’s electric powertrain. Therefore, it is safe to assume that this fast crossover still retains its power of 601 hp and 740 Nm from the two electric motors.
It is reported that the DK Edition package will first be available in the Japanese and Korean markets by the end of 2025, with other markets expected to follow later.
Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd launched the AMI-Suzuki 2025 Road Safety Campaign yesterday (January 14) at the Dataran Ilmu, Selayang Stadium.
The campaign was launched in collaboration with the Malaysian Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA) and was officiated by YB Datuk Haji Hasbi Haji Habibollah, the Deputy Minister of Transport Malaysia.
This campaign, themed “Share the Road, Ride with Courtesy,” is organized for the second time by Suzuki Malaysia and for the eighth time by AFY Mobility Industries (AMI).
The initiative aims to raise awareness about road safety among motorcyclists, vehicle drivers, and the general public.
Additionally, the campaign is hoped to contribute to a reduction in accident rates and to foster a safer road culture.
Various exciting activities are provided for visitors, including free 16-point motorcycle inspections, the distribution of new helmets (400 units), the giveaway of children’s helmets, as well as exhibitions of motorcycles and safety accessories.
Isuzu Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the cost-effective pickup truck model, the Isuzu D-Max Low-Ride 4×2 MT for the Malaysian market.
The D-Max Low-Ride is aimed at users who need a reliable and cost-efficient commercial vehicle while also providing ample space.
This Low-Ride model shares the same 1.9-liter RZ4E-TC engine used in the D-Max 1.9-liter Single Cab, producing 150 PS at 3,600 rpm and a torque of 350 Nm at 1,800-2,600 rpm.
The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, ensuring lower ownership and operating costs.
One unique feature of this model is that the height of the cargo area is only 78 cm from the ground, which facilitates loading and unloading items.
In addition to seating up to five passengers at a time, the cabin space of the D-Max Low-Ride is equipped with fabric-covered seats, a single DIN entertainment system, a steering wheel with tilt and telescopic adjustments, a central locking system, and electronically adjustable side mirrors.
Safety aspects are also a priority, as this model is equipped with systems such as anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), brake assistance (BA), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control system (TCS), hill start assist (HSA), hill descent control (HDC), in addition to dual airbags, Brake Override System (BOS), emergency stop lights, and reverse sensors.
Orders for the Isuzu D-Max Low-Ride pickup truck are now open through all authorized Isuzu dealers nationwide.
Only one color is available, namely Splash White, with the starting selling price set at RM92,199.20 on the road, excluding insurance.
Each purchase is accompanied by a warranty of five years or a mileage limit of 150,000 km.
Good news for Mitsubishi enthusiasts in Miri, Sarawak.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has announced the “Drive Your Ambition” festival, which will take place on January 18-19, 2025, at ParkCity Eastwood, Miri, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Visitors can experience the prowess of the Super Select 4WD-II system and the seven driving modes available on the Triton through test drive sessions that navigate various challenging terrains, including side traverses, water crossings, hill climbs, muddy paths, and articulation courses.
For fans of single cab pickups, the Triton Single Cab is available for test drives, showcasing a one-ton capacity for transporting palm oil over the prepared obstacle course.
MMM is also offering attractive promotions for the Triton model, such as Diesel Rewards and a 2-year free service package.
Visitors who book a brand-new Triton pickup at the festival location will receive a Naturehike cooler box valued at RM150. Additionally, those participating in the Triton obstacle test drive will receive exciting merchandise, including a Naturehike bench and a Triton tote bag.
Moreover, a variety of engaging activities are planned for the whole family, along with performances by local artists such as Dabra Sia on January 18 and Azam Pitt the following day.
As the largest automotive manufacturer, Toyota rarely disappoints its fans during the Tokyo Auto Salon events.
For the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota unveiled a prototype hot hatch known as the GR Yaris M Concept.
Unlike the standard GR Yaris, the GR Yaris M Concept is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine (code-named G20E) that replaces the existing three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine.
What’s even more surprising is that the new engine is not positioned at the front; instead, it is placed in a mid-ship layout.
According to Toyota, these changes aim to explore the potential of the GR Yaris hot hatch, and they also plan to race this vehicle in the Super Taikyu series.
This prototype will be fully tested on the racetrack while receiving valuable feedback from professional drivers, including Morizo (Akio Toyoda).
The existence of the GR Yaris M Concept raises a question: is this a significant indicator of the upcoming new MR2 model?
Proton, through its subsidiary Pro-Net, has extended the Power Pack package offered for the Proton e.MAS 7 electric SUV to an additional 3,000 customers, along with a rebate of RM4,000.
For your information, the Power Pack launch package includes:
Power Home: Free 7kW Home Charger worth RM1,500
Power Plus: Free V2L Adapter worth RM500
Power Online: 5-Year Unlimited Internet Data worth RM1,800
Power Thru: Unlimited Vehicle Warranty for 6 years and Battery and High-Voltage Component Warranty for 8 years / 160,000 km
Power Exchange: Exclusive RM1,200 Rebate for Proton Owners trading in their vehicles
Officially launched in mid-December, the Proton e.MAS 7 is powered by a single electric motor producing 215 hp and 320 Nm of torque, with a range of up to 345 km for the Prime variant and up to 410 km for the Premium variant.
The selling price of the Proton e.MAS 7 starts at RM105,800.
According to Pro-Net’s CEO, Zhang Qiang, “Due to exceptional demand, we are pleased to extend this offer so that more Malaysians can experience the Proton e.MAS 7 and the benefits of owning an EV.”
“This achievement reflects our customers’ trust in us as well as their commitment to moving towards a greener future.”
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, has announced the availability of three additional accessories for the popular 2025 Xpander MPV model.
Limited to only 200 units, the 2025 Xpander is now equipped with an Around-View Monitor (AVM), front and rear dashcam (DVR), and leatherette seat upholstery.
These enhancements are the ideal choice for those seeking a stylish vehicle that also offers better value.
The facelifted 2025 Mitsubishi Xpander was launched in September 2024, featuring a more modern appearance along with improved cabin features.
It still retains the 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 105 PS and 141 Nm of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission.
The 2025 Mitsubishi Xpander is priced at RM104,980 on the road without insurance.
As of the time this article was written, the world has been treated to a lineup of supercars and hypercars offering astonishing performance that defies imagination.
However, the author argues that none of these models can rival the sound of the V10 engine in the Lexus LFA.
Yes, even though this model has long since ceased production in 2012, the quality of the engine and exhaust soundtrack, reminiscent of a Formula 1 machine, remains difficult to match.
If you find that white noise isn’t helping you sleep soundly, you might want to try an alternative that’s perfect for petrolheads: listening to the sound of the Lexus LFA engine!
Toyota quietly uploaded a three-hour video on the Toyota Times YouTube channel, featuring uninterrupted pure sounds of the Lexus LFA.
For the information of our readers, the Lexus LFA is powered by a 5.2-liter V10 engine, the 1LR-GUE, capable of producing up to 552 hp and 480 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The Lexus LFA Nürburgring Edition, meanwhile, features a retuned engine that generates 563 hp, with a gear shift that is 0.05 seconds faster, along with aerodynamic enhancements more suited for track use.
At the same time, Lexus sought Yamaha’s assistance to further tune the engine, exhaust, and intake systems, resulting in a soundtrack that is hard to replicate by any manufacturer.
As someone who appreciates this unique genre of “music,” we hope Toyota can provide recordings of the fantastic engine sounds produced in the past, such as the six-cylinder 2JZ-GTE, the sole V12 1GZ-FE used in the second-generation Toyota Century, and, of course, the legendary 4A-GE engine.
Bonus: The soundtrack of the Lexus LFA roars on the test track!
The Nissan GT-R (R35 generation) made its global debut in 2007 and is described as a supercar “for anyone, anywhere, at any time.”
However, did you know that Nissan was not alone in the development of this successor to the R34 Skyline GT-R?
According to an internal source, Nissan relied on individuals with expertise in truck engineering to develop the R35!
As quoted from microblogging user @trucknakanohito, 80 percent of the Nissan GT-R development team consisted of Isuzu engineers.
Without reliable sources, it is indeed difficult to accept such information.
However, this question was promptly addressed by Kazutoshi Mizuno, the chief engineer of the R35, or more accurately, Mr. GT-R.
In a reply tweet, Mizuno clarified that initially, none of the Isuzu engineers had experience in developing a supercar, as they came from the truck division.
“However, through strong teamwork, a high determination to achieve goals, and training and practice based on comprehensive vehicle measurement system results, all team members managed to become world-class engineers in just 1.5 years,” he stated.
Peugeot Malaysia has announced a special rebate of RM21,500 for the Peugeot 2008 B-segment crossover, bringing the selling price down to RM111,888.
This new price also includes a comprehensive seven-year warranty package for the peace of mind of the owners.
In addition, customers are offered the option to purchase an inclusive five-year service package worth RM10,000, which covers all parts costs as well as labor cost for ten service appointments.
The Peugeot 2008 is equipped with a PureTech 1.2-liter turbo engine that delivers 130 hp and 230 Nm of torque, stylish design featuring LED lighting, 17-inch rims, and a 3D i-Cockpit system for the cabin space.
More information about the Peugeot 2008 can be found on the website https://www.peugeot.com.my or by visiting a nearby Peugeot showroom.
Two e-sports teams have been crowned champions at the recently concluded 2025 Asia Pacific Predator League, which took place on January 11 and 12.
The team Alter Ego (Acer Indonesia) secured first place in the VALORANT competition held on the first day, defeating ZOL Esports (Acer Philippines), and taking home a cash prize of $65,000 (RM287,462).
Meanwhile, the Malaysian team represented by Xipto Esport was satisfied with their third/fourth place finish, bringing home a prize worth $7,500 (RM33,169).
The second day featured the Dota 2 competition, where the Malaysian team Myth Avenue Gaming showcased their prowess to become champions by defeating Team Helios (Acer Indonesia).
With this victory, the MAG team also took home a cash prize of $65,000.
The APAC Predator League 2025 offered up to 10 special awards with a total prize pool of $20,000 (RM88,450) for both VALORANT and Dota 2, allowing fans to vote for their favorite players based on their roles.
Additionally, two players from the teams Alter Ego and MAG were named Intel MVPs based on their performance in the tournament, with each receiving a prize worth $10,000 (RM44,225).
Besides being a platform for intense competition, the APAC Predator League featured various exciting activities, including a cosplay competition and performances by Sandara Park and Minzy (from K-pop group 2NE1), G22 (Philippines), as well as local artists Aina Abdul and Hael Husaini.
Acer also announced that the next edition, Predator League 2026, will be hosted by Acer India, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to nurturing the e-sports and PC gaming ecosystem.
Officially launched in the Malaysian market in early 2025, the Zontes 368G adventure scooter has quickly become a popular choice among Malaysians.
According to Zontes Malaysia, the 368G scooter has now received more than 1,300 bookings.
With a starting price of RM28,800, this adventure scooter, assembled at the CKD plant in Jitra, Kedah, offers unique advantages.
Among its features are a single-cylinder 368 cc engine with a power output of 38 hp and 40 Nm of torque, a 17.5-liter fuel tank for longer journeys, an 8-inch TFT LCD display that can connect to smart devices, a storage space of 52 liters, and dual-purpose tires suitable for both urban riding and tackling unpaved trails.
Additionally, the Zontes 368G is equipped with safety features such as a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), traction control system (TCS), anti-lock braking system (ABS), J.Juan braking system, and most importantly, an HD front and rear riding recording system.
To further promote the scooter, Zontes Malaysia will be organizing a promotional tour from January 3 to April 6, 2025, at the following locations:
January 3-5, 2025: Amanjaya Hall, Kedah
January 10-12, 2025: Toppen Mall, Johor
January 17-19, 2025: Autocity, Penang
January 23-26, 2025: Palm Mall, Negeri Sembilan
February 6-9, 2025: Ipoh Parade, Perak
February 13-16, 2025: Mahkota Parade, Malacca
February 20-22, 2025: KB Mall, Kelantan
February 27-March 2, 2025: MyTown, Kuala Lumpur
March 12-16, 2025: 1Utama Shopping Centre, Petaling Jaya
The Kia EV9 has successfully clinched two awards at the recently held Star Carsifu Editors’ Choice Awards 2024.
The electric SUV, featuring three rows of seating, won the award for Electric Car of the Year and Best Electric Luxury 3-Row Seating Vehicle.
According to Dato Wong Kin Foo, Managing Director of Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd, “We remain committed to closely collaborating with Kia to select the models that best suit the Malaysian market.”
The Kia EV9 officially debuted in the Malaysian market in May 2024, showcasing features such as a dual electric motor setup with 380 hp and 700 Nm of torque, as well as a 99.8 kWh battery pack that offers a driving range of up to 505 km.
This electric SUV is built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and follows the Opposites United design philosophy, which integrates elements such as the Digital Tiger Face, Digital Pattern Lighting Grille, vertical lighting units, and the LED Star Map lighting system.
The cabin of the Kia EV9 offers a spacious and comfortable configuration for either six or seven passengers, complemented by a minimalist dashboard layout featuring dual 12.3-inch touchscreen displays and sustainable materials.
The starting price for the Kia EV9 is RM368,888 for the 7-seater version and RM373,888 for the 6-seater variant.
The implementation of the Automatic Awareness Safety System (AwAS) cameras will be improved by adopting a point-to-point method instead of the previously employed static method, according to Astro Awani.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that this new approach will allow for more comprehensive monitoring of vehicle speeds by measuring the average speed of vehicles between two camera points based on the distance and travel time.
He noted that the current implementation of AwAS cameras, which are installed at a single static location, has not effectively achieved the objective of reducing vehicle speeds and thus lowering the risk of accidents.
Source: Bernama
“What we want to adopt in this new approach is that we already have new technology; we will look at the two checkpoint points.
“We do not want drivers to slow down only in front of the camera, but to maintain a slow speed over a certain distance.
“Let’s say between Point A and Point B, we want to know how long drivers take to travel that distance.
“If they take less than the appropriate time, it means they are speeding and will face penalties (fines),” he said at a press conference here on Monday.
Source: Utusan
As a starting point, he said this implementation will be carried out in hazardous and high-risk areas, such as the hilly regions on the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway (KLK) in Genting Sempah and the Menora Tunnel in Ipoh.
“Our objective is to ensure that vehicles, especially buses, slow down so that drivers do not accelerate while descending hills.
“The current method is less effective; even though we install cameras, vehicles only slow down at that location and then speed up again,” he said.
He expressed hope that, through the enhancement of the AwAS system with the point-to-point mechanism, there would be a reduction in road accident rates and an increase in awareness and discipline among drivers nationwide.
UMW Toyota Motor concluded the year 2024 with strong sales momentum, surpassing the 100,000-unit mark for the third consecutive year.
In December 2024 alone, UMWT recorded sales exceeding 12,800 units, driven by popular models such as the Hilux, Vios, and Corolla Cross.
This brought Toyota Malaysia’s total annual sales to over 102,300 units.
For the same year, UMWT reported 1.42 million customers for after-sales services.
This impressive performance further solidified Toyota’s position in the Malaysian market, driven by customer demand for vehicles that offer efficiency, reliability, and advanced safety features.
As a brand that has long been a part of the automotive landscape in Malaysia, Toyota continues to play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s mobility ecosystem through its Multi-Pathway Approach.
By offering a diverse range of vehicles, Toyota meets the evolving needs of customers while also supporting the country’s transition towards sustainable mobility.
With its striking price and appearance (some have said it resembles a Range Rover), the Jaecoo J7 has created its own phenomenon in the Malaysian market.
The Jaecoo J7 model was first showcased in early 2024 before officially launching a few months later, starting at RM138,800 for the two-wheel drive version and RM148,800 for the AWD version.
Since its official launch, this SUV model has become quite popular, almost as hot as fried bananas, even overshadowing local brands for a time.
Many may be drawn to its elegant exterior, while others may desire the off-road driving capabilities offered by the Jaecoo J7.
To investigate the real reasons behind this SUV’s popularity, we managed to obtain a Jaecoo J7 test unit for a week of driving, and here are our opinions:
1. Price Below RM150,000 for a ‘Range Rover’, Who Wouldn’t Want It?
We admit that after getting a closer look at the Jaecoo J7, it indeed has an aura that makes many consider it a ‘people’s version’ of the Range Rover.
This perception is especially strong when viewed from the side.
With its luxurious-looking design, the Jaecoo J7 appears to satisfy those who want a premium SUV image without sacrificing their bank account.
2. Is the Jaecoo J7 2WD Sufficient?
We were provided with the two-wheel drive (2WD) variant of the Jaecoo J7 for our test drive.
There are two significant differences between this model and the AWD variant, namely the drive system and the driving modes included.
The Jaecoo J7 2WD only offers three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, compared to up to seven driving modes for the AWD variant (which includes additional modes for Sand, Mud, Off-road, and Snow).
However, the capabilities of both variants remain the same, such as a ground clearance of 200 mm and the ability to wade through water up to 600 mm deep.
For those who do not prioritize off-road driving capabilities, the 2WD version is more than adequate.
We had the opportunity to test this SUV’s ability to navigate flash floods in the Klang area, and it performed excellently, able to maneuver past several cars that dared not proceed.
The suspension tuning of the Jaecoo J7 also impressed us, maintaining good controllability even on unpaved roads while preserving a comfortable driving experience.
3. Powerful Engine
Powering this SUV is a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that produces a maximum output of 194 hp and a torque of 290 Nm.
With a seven-speed DCT transmission from Getrag, the Jaecoo J7 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.2 seconds.
In terms of driving, the Jaecoo J7 poses no significant issues for swift cruising, offering stable and comfortable driving even at high speeds.
However, by default, the Jaecoo J7 starts in Eco mode every time the drive button is pressed, and you must switch it to Normal mode for a smoother takeoff.
In Eco mode, we noticed that the initial driving experience was not very pleasant at times, occasionally feeling as if the vehicle was somehow reluctant to move forward.
4. Minimalist Cabin
The simplified approach on the exterior continues into the design of the cabin space, which is more minimalist while simultaneously conveying a sense of premium atmosphere.
The centrally located 13.2-inch screen houses various functions and settings, including air conditioning controls and multiple safety features that can be adjusted.
The good news is that to raise or lower the cabin temperature, you only need to press a button on the center console to open the air conditioning control menu, without having to search for the menu, especially after the Apple CarPlay/Android Auto menu is displayed.
Although the front seats do not come with a comprehensive adjustment function, we appreciate that they provide enough cushion dimension to support the lower legs.
As a result, we did not feel excessively fatigued during our drive.
Accompanying us throughout the journey was a pleasant and captivating sound produced by eight Sony speakers, which filled the cabin.
There are several other features we liked, particularly the digital cluster screen that still offers analog meter display options, and a clear, easy-to-read head-up display.
For the rear seats, there are two adjustable reclining angles available.
5. Driving Experience
Aside from its handsome appearance, the Jaecoo J7 is actually very enjoyable to drive.
This is not only due to its ability to attract public attention but also the handling and comfort it offers.
The MacPherson strut suspension setup in the front and the Multi-Link setup in the rear contribute to good handling on winding roads, complemented by a responsive steering feel.
More importantly, the NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) levels are minimal, allowing passengers to relax peacefully without significant disturbances.
From the driver’s perspective, the windshield of the Jaecoo J7 offers a wide field of view, supported by practical side mirrors for such a large SUV.
Thus, most of the time, I preferred to rely entirely on these physical features, only using the surround camera display to ensure there were no obstacles around the vehicle while positioning the car in the parking space.
6. Practicality
In addition to a cabin that offers ample leg and headroom for both front and rear passengers, the Jaecoo J7 provides a sizeable cargo space.
With a volume of 412 liters, it is adequate to accommodate various necessities, and it can be expanded up to 1,349 liters when the second-row seats are folded down.
Moreover, the Jaecoo J7 still has space to accommodate a full-size spare tire!
7. Comprehensive Safety Features
In terms of safety, the Jaecoo J7 is generous with various functions, including autonomous emergency braking, front collision warning, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, forward vehicle movement warning, and adaptive cruise control.
It also includes rear collision warnings, rear traffic cross alerts, blind-spot monitoring, and a comprehensive 360-degree monitoring system.
To ensure your driving remains safe, the Jaecoo J7 is equipped with speed limit reminders and a very useful tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
In conclusion, the Jaecoo J7 could serve as an alternative for daily driving if you’re tired of the options currently available in the SUV market and want a vehicle with a premium image that attracts attention.
Its price is also reasonable enough not to leave your pocket feeling empty every month.
It wouldn’t be a mistake to change your mind and drive this model home, especially with the complete package of style and specifications offered for our market.
