Jaecoo’s SUV Gains Traction in Australia as Local Launch Approaches

Chery-owned Jaecoo is making strides toward its entry into the Australian automotive market, with its mid-size petrol SUV, the J7, recently spotted cruising through Brisbane streets. This development comes just months ahead of the anticipated customer deliveries set to commence in the first quarter of 2025 (January to March).

The observed vehicle appears to be a petrol-only variant, distinct from the anticipated plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model; however, both versions are expected to launch concurrently.

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While definitive pricing and specifications for the Australian market are yet to be finalized, Jaecoo has disclosed that the mid-sized J7 will be offered with both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. Powering the vehicle will be a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, generating 137 kW of power and 275 Nm of torque—marginally less than its Chinese counterpart, which boasts 145 kW and 290 Nm.

The J7’s PHEV variant features a 115 kW/220 Nm turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, combined with a 150 kW electric motor as part of its Super Hybrid System (SHS), yielding a combined output of 255 kW and 525 Nm. According to the manufacturer, this model can deliver an electric-only driving range of up to 90 km on the WLTP cycle, with an impressive total range approaching 1,200 km.

The J7 measures 4,500 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and stands 1,680 mm tall, set on a 2,672 mm wheelbase. In comparison to the Toyota RAV4, it is approximately 100 mm shorter but 10 mm wider.

To date, Jaecoo has announced a limited assortment of features slated for the Australian market, which includes:

  • Eight airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag
  • LED headlights
  • 19-inch alloy wheels
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • Wireless phone charging
  • A 14.8-inch infotainment system
  • Surround-view camera

Chinese models typically come equipped with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a power-adjustable driver’s seat, while higher trims often feature heated and ventilated front seats, a 64-colour ambient lighting system, and a head-up display.

Safety features anticipated to be offered include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, and traffic jam assistance.

Chery’s re-entry into the Australian market in 2022 primarily centered on affordable vehicles; however, the Jaecoo brand aims to cater to a more premium demographic. A company spokesperson noted, “Jaecoo will be positioned as a more premium product offering than the Chery brand and will be targeted towards a more adventure-focused consumer.”

Following the J7, Jaecoo plans to introduce a smaller J5 model at an undisclosed future date.

Source:www.carexpert.com.au