The Jaecoo J7 was launched about six months ago, and we can still see this SUV on the roads, proving its popularity among Malaysians.
It is not just its looks that are appealing; the Jaecoo J7 also offers practical features and functions suitable for daily use.
In the Malaysian market, the J7 is available in a two-wheel drive (2WD) variant or an all-wheel drive (AWD) variant, with prices starting from RM138,800.
There are not many significant differences between the two models; in fact, both the 2WD and AWD variants are equipped with nearly comprehensive safety features to ensure a safer driving experience.
It may seem like a perfect SUV, but the Jaecoo J7 has its own weaknesses.
Range Rover-esque Appearance – Not for Everyone
As you can see, the Jaecoo J7 offers a unique and premium appearance for an SUV priced under RM150,000.
However, this aesthetic is subjective, and some may not particularly favor its resemblance to a Range Rover.
One thing we hope for is that the rear light units could be enlarged to enhance the overall design, which currently looks a bit empty.
Over-Reliance on the Screen
Like any modern car, the Jaecoo J7 follows the trend of incorporating various functions into the infotainment screen.
This is not necessarily a negative aspect if the manufacturer knows how to provide the right functions to facilitate the driver’s tasks, especially when driving alone.
Yes, voice commands are also available, but not everyone enjoys issuing voice commands for functions that could traditionally be adjusted manually—such as setting the temperature and fan speed of the air conditioning.
Fortunately, there is a dedicated AC button on the center console, making it easier for the driver to navigate the hidden climate control menu within the central screen.
Safety System Could Be Improved
Overall, the author is quite satisfied with the effectiveness of the safety systems in the Jaecoo J7.
However, it might be better if the lane departure avoidance system (and steering correction) is tuned more effectively, so drivers do not feel a ‘disconnection’ with the road.
It’s not a good situation when a driver does not receive the necessary feedback from the road due to the steering correction system intervening for several seconds before relinquishing control back to the driver.
You can read the full review of the Jaecoo J7 test drive at the link below:
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.
Following a busy month of J7 deliveries, Jaecoo is progressing in its commitment to ensure network readiness with the launch of a dealership in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
Operated by Universal Jaecoo Sdn Bhd, the new facility is Jaecoo’s first dealership in East Malaysia.
“East Malaysia is an important market to us. Fans can expect to be immersed in a premium ownership experience that embodies the Jaecoo “From Classic, Beyond Classic” brand essence.
“We believe the J7 fits right in with the appetite of SUV fans in Sabah and JAECOO is ready to fulfil this demand,” said Chery Corporate Malaysia Executive Vice President, Leo Chen.
The dealership, which is located off Jalan Lintas, features a unique geometric exterior and has the capacity to entertain a healthy foot traffic of 200 visitors a month. It is fitted to offer customers an end-to-end experience from the point of purchase to after-sales care.
Customers can also expect to enjoy creature comforts including a cosy customer lounge complete with a dedicated coffee and tea bar, high-speed internet connectivity, and prayer rooms.
Jaecoo Malaysia Vice President, Emily Lek said patrons of the dealership will have the opportunity to experience the Jaecoo J7 AWD and 2WD variants on display.
“Our professionally trained sales advisors are also ready to attend to product enquiries and to arrange test drives upon request. With the future in mind, we believe we are well positioned in the market and have the capabilities to expand in tandem with our customer base in Sabah,” she added.
“The team at Universal Jaecoo is ever ready to deliver the best for our customers in Sabah. We are thrilled to be entrusted to carry the Jaecoo brand which is a testament to our capabilities and experience as an auto retailer that understands the East Malaysian market,” said Universal Jaecoo Sdn Bhd Managing Director, Datuk Chok Yun Kiong.
Many people have noted that the recently launched Jaecoo J7 in Malaysia last month bears a resemblance in design to the premium SUV model, Range Rover Evoque.
So, what do you think of the appearance of another Chery-made SUV featured in this article?
The SUV in question is the Chery Tiggo 7 Sport, and according to media reports from Mainland China, this model has already arrived in several showrooms ahead of its official launch scheduled for September.
From the front view, the Chery Tiggo 7 Sport presents a design inspired by the British off-road SUV, particularly in the grille, air intake openings, and the presence of a skid plate.
It is understood that the daytime running light unit also resembles the structure found on the Range Rover Evoque.
Chery Tansuo 06
Jaecoo J7
In addition, the Chery Tiggo 7 Sport features design elements that are nearly similar to the Jaecoo J7/Chery Tansuo 06 model, such as concealed door handles, roof rails, and storage box accessories between the C and D pillars.
The layout of the cabin has not changed much, where the Tiggo 7 Sport also showcases a large infotainment screen, a floating instrument panel, large gear shift buttons in the middle, and two-tone leather upholstery.
The Chery Tiggo 7 Sport is expected to retain the offering of a 1.6-liter turbo engine producing 197 hp and 290 Nm paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
For your information, Chery established a 50:50 joint venture with Jaguar Land Rover based in Changshu, China since 2012 to enable the production of Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles in Mainland China.
IF you have been following the developments in the automotive industry in Malaysia, you would know that the Jaecoo J7 has been unveiled and its bookings have been opened. It is expected to be offered at a price range of RM150k to RM160k.
Currently, the sub-brand under Chery has also introduced the PHEV (plug-in hybrid) version, showcased at the Auto China 2024 in Beijing. It looks almost similar to the petrol version but certainly has some differences in specifications.
It is powered by a 1.5-liter turbo TGDi petrol engine, said to be a specific version for the hybrid. This engine is paired with a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) and an electric motor in the front, providing the J7 PHEV with a total output of 347PS and 525Nm of torque. In comparison, the regular Jaecoo J7 has a 1.6-liter TGDi engine with 197PS and 290Nm of torque.
The J7 PHEV can also be driven in EV mode for up to 88km. Its fuel consumption is as low as 4.9 liters/100km. According to Jaecoo, this gives the J7 PHEV the capability to drive up to 1,200km per tank.
Interestingly, the J7 PHEV can be charged using DC. Although the charging duration has not been disclosed, it can definitely be done in a short period of time.
A feature of the J7 PHEV is the V2L function, which is the ability to charge external devices. This function is also found in the Chery Omoda E5.
In terms of exterior appearance, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV can be distinguished by its 19-inch aero rims, the charging port cover flap on the right side, and the absence of exhaust at the back. A standard feature is also the retractable door handle.
It is yet to be confirmed whether the Jaecoo J7 PHEV will be launched in Malaysia, but we believe it will certainly provide an interesting option for us. What are your thoughts on the specifications of the J7 PHEV?
JAECOO Malaysia today unveiled their first SUV bet for Malaysia, the Jaecoo J7. For those who don’t know, Jaecoo is a brand under Chery, and this SUV is a segment-C model positioned as a premium off-road vehicle.
From several perspectives, the Jaecoo J7 indeed looks more premium compared to its competitors such as the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V. The Jaecoo J7 is expected to be officially launched around the second quarter of 2024.
The J7 is powered by a 1.6-liter turbo petrol engine with an output of 197hp and 290Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. There are two variant options: front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (AWD).
The Jaecoo J7 has a ground clearance of 200mm with the ability to wade through water up to a depth of 600mm. It is also capable of towing up to 1,300kg, and its roof rack can accommodate up to 75kg.
Standard features of the Jaecoo J7 include layered LED headlights, LED DRLs, 19-inch Aurora rims, leather-wrapped seats, 64-color ambient lighting, seven driving modes, and a 50W wireless charger.
Other features include a head-up display, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.8-inch infotainment system, seats with cooling function, dual-zone air conditioning, and a panoramic sunroof.
Safety features are also quite comprehensive, such as Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Emergency Lane Keeping, Curve Speed Assistance, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist, and Parking Assistance.
The price has not been announced yet, but according to Jaecoo, the price of this SUV will be around that of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, which is priced at RM159,800. Can it compete with existing players in the Malaysian market?
Oh yes, the Jaecoo J7 will also be locally assembled (CKD) from the beginning. Interesting?
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