THE FLOOD OF NEW CHINESE brands continues unabated with yet another newcomer, Jaecoo (a premium semi-off-road sub-brand of Chery) announcing it will be entering the Australian market.
Jaecoo will launch in Australia early 2025. The first model to launch will be the J7, a mid-sized SUV which boasts as many as seven drive modes and comfortable seating for five adults in a luxurious cabin that also features a large vertically positioned touchscreen. Endowed with cutting-edge design and forward-thinking technologies, the J7 is poised to make a bold introduction to the Australian market.
Lewis Lu, Chief Executive Officer, Jaecoo Australia, says the new J7 perfectly embodies the brand’s “From Classic, Beyond Classic” philosophy and is as such the ideal model to introduce the innovative new marque to the country.
“As Australia’s first taste of Jaecoo, the new J7 has an important role to play. Boasting high levels of sophistication and performance – not to mention a modern yet classic design aesthetic – the J7 will appeal to customers who love the great outdoors but are not prepared to compromise on either comfort or standard specification,” Lu stated.
The J7 will be available in 2WD and AWD variants and is powered by an efficient turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine producing generous peak outputs of 137kW and 275Nm torque and mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission as standard.
Specification levels are extremely generous including power-adjustable front seats, an electric tailgate, a 14.8-inch LCD touchscreen, a 360-degree panoramic camera system, wireless smartphone charging, 19-inch alloy wheels (framing red brake callipers), LED headlamps, front fog lamps, automatic windscreen wipers, eight airbags (including a driver’s knee airbag), and several advanced safety features.
In addition, Jaecoo has announced the arrival of the all-new J5, which was revealed at the International User Summit in Wuhu, China, in October. With sophisticated luxury features and a sleek design, the J5 aims to set a new standard in the compact SUV class. The highly anticipated Jaecoo model combines clever technology, practicality, and comfort, making it the ideal choice for motorists who value comfort and prestige but still have an active lifestyle.
Like the larger J7, the J5 features a bold, assertive design combining modern styling cues with rugged touches. The prominent Jaecoo grille flows seamlessly into the slim headlights, lending the vehicle plenty of presence. The generous ground clearance and subtly pronounced wheel arches underscore the J5’s adventurous personality. At the rear, an upmarket lightbar incorporates the taillights and ‘Jaecoo’ nameplate, while the refined rear bumper integrates neatly with the bodywork.
Under the tastefully styled bodywork, an independent suspension setup can be found. This contributes to the smooth and supple ride quality – something appreciated when driving in town and on the long road. Other welcomed features include a best-in-class 13.2-inch touchscreen with integrated entertainment applications and smart navigation. The J5 is available with a 1.45 square metre panoramic sunroof, the biggest in its class.
A standout feature of the J5 is its emphasis on “human-pet travel,” prioritising a healthy and comfortable experience for four-legged companions. The interior includes specially extended seats designed with pets in mind, enhancing their comfort and safety.
Jaecoo will reveal additional J7 details related to specification and pricing closer to the on-sale date in Q1 2025.
Local specification for the J5 has yet to be finalised.