The Australian SUV market is getting yet another contender from China with the introduction of the Jaecoo J7 – a premium sub-brand of Chery. With a competitive price tag and a mix of petrol and hybrid options, the mid-sized SUV is set to take on popular models like the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Mitsubishi Outlander. But how does it stack up? Let’s break it down.
Jaecoo J7 price & value
Jaecoo is coming in strong with a pricing strategy that undercuts some of its rivals. The J7 starts at $34,990 drive-away for the Core 2WD, with the fully loaded plug-in hybrid (PHEV) topping out at $47,990 drive-away. Here’s how it compares:
| Model | Starting price (Drive-away) |
| Jaecoo J7 | $34,990 |
| Mazda CX-5 | $37,990 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander | $41,930 |
| BYD Sealion 6 PHEV | $45,524 |
| Toyota RAV4 | $46,732 |
With competitive pricing, the J7 offers great value, particularly for those looking at a hybrid or AWD model. But please remember that final costs may vary based on location of purchase and taxes.
Performance & efficiency
The J7 offers two powertrains: a 1.6L turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre petrol with plug-in hybrid tech. Here are the details:
| Specs | Jaecoo J7 | Jaecoo J7 SHS |
| Powertrain | 1.6L Turbo Petrol | 1.5L Turbo Petrol + 150kW Electric Motor |
| Performance | 137kW/ 275Nm | 255kW/ 525Nm |
| Fuel Consumption | 2WD: 7.0L / 100km | 1.0L/100km |
| Battery & EV Range | n.a. | 18.3kWh, 90km (WLTP) |
| Drive Type | FWD, AWD | FWD |
Jaecoo J7 colour options
The Jaecoo J7 is available in five color options, with Forest Green offered at no additional cost. Other choices, including Ocean Blue, Lunar Silver, Carbon Black, and Arctic White, are available for an additional $600.
Practicality & space: Is it family-friendly?
The J7 provides comfortable seating and a well-appointed cabin, but its boot space varies depending on the variant:
| Model | Boot space |
| Jaecoo J7 | 424L |
| Jaecoo J7 SHS | 340L |
In hybrid form, the Jaecoo J7 SHS bootspace is definitely lacking as a family SUV, but if you need an SUV as a family with young kids, or just as a second car, it’s still a good option.
As Chery’s premium brand, the Jaecoo SUV does have a nice cabin featuring:
- Soft-touch materials and power-adjustable front seats
- 10.25″ LCD digital instrument cluster and 14.8″ touchscreen display
- 360-degree around-view monitor
- Dual-zone climate control with second-row vents
- Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™
- Customisable ambient lighting that syncs with audio playback
Features & tech: Is it a well-equipped SUV?
Jaecoo has loaded the J7 with premium features even on base models, ensuring strong value across the range:
- Core 2WD: 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, a 13.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and synthetic leather seats.
- Track 2WD: Adds heated seats, Sony eight-speaker audio, and dual-zone climate control.
- Ridge AWD: Gains a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, and ventilated seats.
- SHS Summit PHEV: Unique aero wheels, gear selector on the steering column, and premium interior touches.
Safety & ownership costs
While the ANCAP safety rating for the car is still pending, Jaecoo isn’t skimping on safety features. You get features like
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Driver monitoring system
- Lane departure warning
- Emergency lane-keeping assist
- Lane centring
- Lane change assist
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Reversing camera
- Rear parking sensors
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Tyre pressure monitoring
- Seven airbags (eight in Track 2WD and Ridge AWD trims)
Higher trims add extra features, such as a surround-view camera, front parking sensors, and a built-in dashcam.
The J7 also comes with an 8-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and up to 8 years of roadside assistance. Servicing costs could range from $369 to $421 annually, offering a competitive ownership experience.
Where the J7 has the advantage
Premium Features for Less – The J7 offers a sleek, modern interior with a 14.8-inch infotainment screen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and high-end materials like Nappa leather. These are features you’d typically find in luxury SUVs, not in a sub-$50K model.
Advanced AWD System – The Jaecoo J7 is AWD-only, featuring a BorgWarner all-wheel-drive system with seven terrain modes. This gives it an edge over front-wheel-drive rivals when it comes to versatility in difficult terrain.
Strong Safety & Tech Package – While awaiting an ANCAP safety rating, the J7 is packed with driver-assist tech, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and auto emergency braking. It also offers a head-up display and 540-degree camera, adding to its tech appeal.
Where its rivals have the edge
Proven Safety Ratings – While the J7 comes with an impressive safety suite, rivals like the RAV4 and CX-5 have ANCAP ratings that provide buyers with tested assurance
Brand Trust & Resale Value – Jaecoo is new to Australia, and Chery’s recent return hasn’t erased past reliability concerns. Toyota and Mazda have proven track records, which could make buyers hesitant about long-term ownership costs and resale value.
Should you consider the J7?
The Jaecoo J7 is a feature-rich SUV with a long warranty and competitive pricing, making it an appealing option for those looking for a modern and well-equipped vehicle. It’s particularly well-suited for buyers who value:
✔ Advanced tech and premium features
✔ A compelling plug-in hybrid option
However, those needing maximum cargo space or proven hybrid technology may want to explore other options. The J7 presents itself as an exciting newcomer, offering plenty of value for its price. Would you take a chance on it?
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