Plug-in hybrids are still relatively niche in the market, but the Jaecoo J7 demonstrates why we should pay more attention to them.
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are beneficial because they offer a combination of electric and petrol power, allowing for electric-only driving for shorter trips while still providing the range of a conventionally-powered engine for longer journeys.
The Jaecoo J7 is the latest offering from the Omoda-Jaecoo conglomerate, and though it may not be the most refined or sporty choice, you’ll be hard-pressed to find something else more efficient.
Subtle and clean
At first glance, the Jaecoo J7 captivates with its assertive stance and sleek lines. The front fascia is dominated by a prominent grille with vertical slats, flanked by LED headlights that give it a Range Rover-esque look.
Subtle design elements, such as retractable door handles and 19-inch alloy wheels, enhance its modern aesthetic.
Stepping inside, the Jaecoo J7 offers a cabin that prioritises both space and comfort. The interior exudes a minimalist yet technologically advanced ambience, featuring a dual-screen setup comprising a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 14.8-inch infotainment system.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, alongside a 50W wireless charging pad.
The seats, upholstered in synthetic leather with accent stitching, provide excellent lateral support and are equipped with heating and ventilation functions.
A panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of openness and comfort for all occupants.
Speaking of comfort, space is abundant in the J7, with generous legroom and headroom in the rear.
Even with a full posse in tow, you can easily squeeze all of your belongings in the car’s 500-litre boot.
Gentle is the way to do it
Under the bonnet, the Jaecoo J7 is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 186hp and 290Nm. This engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
The suspension system leans towards comfort, absorbing road imperfections effectively, and the steering is light, making urban manoeuvres effortless. However, when driven spiritedly on winding roads, the J7 unsurprisingly tends to wallow, its handling reflecting its SUV nature of prioritising comfort over sporty dynamics.
To make life easier for the driver, the J7 features a host of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a 360-degree high-definition panoramic camera system.
Where the J7 outclasses most other cars is in fuel efficiency. With an 18.3kWh battery providing additional support to the engine, it offers exceptional fuel economy figures, making it a practical choice for those mindful of both their carbon footprint and fuel expenses.
Heck, you can even run up to 90km with electrical energy alone. That’s impressive.
Our test drive garnered an impressive 17.5km/litre, which meant the fuel tank could theoretically achieve more than 1000km of range. Driving to Thailand in one tank then is nothing but child’s play.
The sensible choice
If you are looking for something practical and fuel-efficient, the Jaecoo J7 stands as a compelling option in the SUV market.
It presents a well-rounded package, offering a harmonious mix of practicality, comfort, and technology, catering to a broad spectrum of drivers. For the sensible sort, you can’t go wrong with this.
Technical Specifications
Jaecoo J7
Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder in-line, Turbocharged
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Power: 255 kW (342 bhp)
Torque: 525 Nm
Gearbox: 3-speed (A) DHT
0-100km/h: 8.5 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 180 km/h
Fuel Capacity: 60 litres
Combined Drive Range: >1200 km (WLTP)
Fuel Consumption: 0.7 litres / 100km (claimed)
Power Consumption: 18.7 kWh / 100 km (WLTP)
Price: S$227,888 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)
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