JAECOO 7, a name so unique that it sounds like it could belong to a high-tech gadget or perhaps a secret agent, is not just any car, but a plug-in hybrid SUV that’s trying to make a splash in the increasingly crowded world of electrified motoring. Let’s take a closer look.
As a sub-brand of Chery Automobile, JAECOO was officially established in April 2023 to expand into export markets. As a new brand of offroad vehicles, JAECOO is inspired by the combination of the German word “Jäger” and the English word “Cool”, reflecting the fusion of offroad adventure and urban style. Their products, including the J7, J5, and J8, are designed for discerning customers who want high-performance vehicles that also contribute to a greener future. With its commitment to hybrid and electric technologies, JAECOO is shaping the future of mobility in Indonesia and around the world.
At first glance, the JAECOO J7 is a rather handsome beast. It’s got that modern SUV aesthetic with a touch of ruggedness that easily fits handling daily school runs or conquering a mountain pass if it felt like it. The front look is rather futuristic, and the bold grille design and sleek headlights will immediately turn heads.
Under the bonnet, we find a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 347 horsepower. That’s quite a lot for a car in this segment, and it means the J7 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds. Not exactly supercar territory, but certainly brisk enough to escape the red lights before the people behind start honking. The electric-only range is a respectable 90 kilometers, which should cover most commutes without burning a drop of petrol, and with a total range of 1,200 kilometers, you could drive from Jakarta to Bali without breaking a sweat—or stopping for fuel.
Inside, the J7 is a bit of a mixed bag. The cabin is spacious and well-equipped, with a massive 14.8-inch touchscreen that dominates the dashboard. It’s got all the tech you’d expect, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 360-degree camera system, and even a driver monitoring system to keep you alert. However, some of the controls are a bit fiddly, adjusting the side mirrors via the touchscreen, for example, feels like technology for the sake of it. Still, the overall ambiance is premium enough to make you feel like you’ve got your money’s worth.
On the road, the J7 is smooth and composed. The suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps, and the steering is light, if a bit lacking in feedback. It’s not the most engaging car to drive, but then again, it’s not trying to be. This is a car for people who value comfort and efficiency over outright performance.
So, what’s the verdict? The JAECOO J7 is a solid effort from a brand that’s still finding its feet in the global market. It’s not perfect, but it offers a compelling mix of style, practicality, and efficiency at a competitive price. If you’re in the market for a plug-in hybrid SUV that won’t break the bank, it’s definitely worth a look. Just don’t expect it to set your pulse racing—this is more of a sensible pair of shoes than a pair of Italian loafers. But sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
