The Jaecoo J7 mid-size SUV embodies exactly this idea in terms of design. Its style is quite attractive, and it has many design touches that seem to be inspired by the larger Range Rover model, especially from the rear three-quarter view.
Jaecoo’s waterfall-grille blends quite nicely with stacked LED headlights and slim daytime running lights. At first glance, the J7 will seem attractive, just for its design and profile.
It’s smart-looking from any angle, with some additional design features like flush door handles that set it apart from other Chery cars.
On the other hand, Chery has built a strong position in the small and mid-size SUV market in just a few years with models like Tiggo 4, Tiggo 7, Tiggo 8, offering the best value-for-money.
We got a chance to drive the entry-level 2WD model (Core & Track) of the J7, but Jaecoo is soon launching AWD and Plug-in Hybrid versions, which will be available by March/April this year.
How much does the Jaecoo J7 cost?
Jaecoo won’t release pricing until J7’s official launch next month.
Nevertheless, the Chinese brand has indicated a starting point between $35,000-$40,000 (drive-away) for the base 2WD Core and a little more for the Track.
That’s only a smidge over the top-spec Tiggo 7 Pro Special Edition+ ($33,990 drive-away).
What is the Jaecoo J7 like on the inside?
The cabin of the J7 is noticeably improved compared to other Chery cars, with a greater emphasis on high-quality materials, sophisticated design and technology.
To be honest, it looks and feels a bit more premium than the Tiggo 7 Pro, but not by much—which is a huge difference—which the Tiggo 7 Pro deserves to be praised for!
Like its stylish exterior, the interior also has some design elements that are inspired by off-road capable luxury SUV.
**The *metallic-look door opener and grab handle* highlight the Jimny J7’s ‘adventure’ and ‘exploration’ spirit, making it both attractive and unique.
Soft-touch materials are used in most areas of the car’s interior, with hard plastics being kept to a minimum, mainly below eye level.
The Jaecoo’s leatherette-trimmed seats are very comfortable, with thick cushioning and excellent bolstering, making the driving experience even on hilly roads a pleasure.
The driver’s seat is particularly comfortable, offering armchair-style comfort, and the driving position offers a good view of the entire road.
In front of the driver is a sporty flat-bottom steering wheel, which feels premium in the hand. Behind it is a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, which is easily customizable and changes according to different drive modes.
In the middle of the car is a large, 13.2-inch, tablet-style infotainment screen. It is high-resolution and does not have the overly complicated ADAS controls of newer models, so you can easily turn on or off the safety features you want.
The J7 features Powered Front Seats, with Auxiliary Controls on the front passenger seat, allowing the rear passenger to adjust the front seat for easy ingress and egress—a nice added bonus!
Passive Entry and Start, along with Auto Walk-Away Locking, are also available, which is typically seen in luxury cars.
The top-of-the-line Track variant gets some more premium features, such as—
✅ Power Tailgate
✅ Powered Child Safety Lock for Rear Doors
✅ Heated Front Seats
✅ Dual-Zone Climate Control
✅ Ambient Lighting
✅ 8-Speaker Sony Sound System
574 litres of boot space is available at the rear, which increases to 1472 litres with the rear seats folded. However, the boot floor lip can be a bit inconvenient, especially when lifting long items.
What’s under the bonnet?
Full powertrain details for the Australian-market Jaecoo J7 won’t be available until the launch of the full range of variants in late March/April, so we’ve included everything currently known.
| Specifications | Jaecoo J7 |
|---|---|
| Engine type | 1.6L 4cyl turbo-petrol |
| Power | 137kW @ 5500rpm |
| Torque | 275Nm @ 2000-4000rpm |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch auto – wet type |
| Drive type | FWD or AWD |
| Fuel economy (claimed) | 7.0L/100km |
| CO2 emissions | 163g/km |
How does the Jaecoo J7 drive?
Contrary to popular belief, we were already expecting something better from Chery’s 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, especially after our experience with the Tiggo 7 Pro. However, it performs even better in the J7!
