Designed as an alternative to premium European SUVs, but at the price of a compact car – the Jaecoo J7 is a "value bomb" that will rock the SUV charts. But is it worth the excitement?
In a world where car prices are skyrocketing, a hero with surprising attributes has arrived from Asia – Jaecoo J7. An SUV that looks like Range Rover, costs as much as a basic Kia, but promises more than the average premium competitor. Is this a trick of the eyes or a revolution on four wheels?
The Jaecoo J7 doesn't try to hide its inspirations. If the front grille, hidden door handles and rear wipers don't remind you of a Range Rover, then you're probably not looking closely enough. Add in the 19-inch wheels, the signature LED headlights and surprisingly high-quality paintwork - the Jaecoo J7 looks more expensive than it actually is. The interior is a technological paradise with a large 14.8-inch screen, digital gauges and smart details (like an air-cooled wireless charging station).
Who is Jaecoo anyway?
If you are for the name Jaecoo If you're hearing this for the first time, you're not alone. It's a new sub-brand owned by one of China's largest automobile concerns - Chery Automobile Co., Ltd. Jaecoo, together with its sister brand, Omod part of the company’s strategy to go global. While Omoda targets younger, trendier buyers, Jaecoo appeals to a more sophisticated audience looking for more robust, premium-designed SUVs. The name comes from the words “Jaeger” (German for hunter) and “Cool”, which is meant to symbolize style and capability. Behind it lie decades of development within Chery, a brand with more than 25 years of tradition and a presence in more than 80 markets around the world. Although it seems new and exotic, Jaecoo is essentially a well-oiled machine with big ambitions.
Engine range: Plug-in king
The J7 is available with two powertrains:
- 1.6-liter turbo petrol with 147 hp (108 kW), 7-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- 1.5-liter plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with 204 hp (150 kW) and 56 miles (≈90 km) of electric range. CVT transmission, front-wheel drive.
The hybrid model allows charging with a power of up to 40 kW, which means 30–80 % charges in just 20 minutes. The range in hybrid mode is over 1,400 km.
Driving: luxury or disappointment?
In city traffic, the J7 is at home. The high seating position, quiet ride and easy-to-handle steering are positive elements. However, the difference becomes apparent on regional roads – the damping fluctuates between soft and hard, the steering wheel is devoid of feeling, and the driving dynamics resemble a soft hand without power. For someone who appreciates driving, this is not an ideal partner. For those who drive “from A to B”, however, there is no excessive reason for complaints.
Interior: full of equipment
Here Jaecoo dilutes the competition: head-up display (HUD), heated steering wheel, cooled seats, ambient lighting, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, Wi-Fi connectivity, 360° cameras – all standard in higher packages! The space in the rear seats is good, but the rear door is too big for normal parking spaces, which can be a problem. The trunk with 500 liters (petrol) or. around 340 liters (PHEV) is not the largest, but it is practical, with a low edge and automatic opening.
Shortcomings
There's no seven-seat version - but the Jaecoo J8 is coming. A few minor niggles, like mismatched plastic trim, nervous safety systems (hello, warnings!), and a general sense of underestimation of ride quality. Materials feel above average, but the lower cabin areas remain "hard and cheap."
The price is ridiculously low for the EU
The price of the vehicle starts at around €30,000 for the basic versions, while the best-equipped hybrid models cost up to €35,000. With a wide range of standard equipment and a 7-year warranty, this is a more than competitive offer. Buyers can already find additional discounts and promotions at some dealers. (Prices listed are for the UK market)
Conclusion: Jaecoo J7
The Jaecoo J7 is an SUV that makes you smile at the price and surprises with its equipment. But it's not perfect - the driving experience remains below average, the driver assistance systems are nervous, and the ride quality fluctuates. Nevertheless, for many, this is the car that offers the most for the money: the range of the PHEV system, comfort, technology and a look that imitates prestige.
If you are a rational buyer who wants a technologically equipped SUV for the price of a compact car – the Jaecoo J7 is more than suitable. However, if you are a driving enthusiast looking for sensations in the corners – you will most likely continue to look elsewhere. In any case: welcome to the future of motoring, where “made in China” is the new ticket to the world of affordable luxury.
