Shopping JAECOO: A Model-By-Model Breakdown
If you’re in the market for SUVs, you might have heard of JAECOO. This Chinese brand from Chery is relatively new to South Africa, but it's already making waves due to its modern designs and practical capabilities.
These SUVs, available through Digi Cars Group, offer serious value for money since they come with a ton of bells and whistles but cost far less than some of the other car brands in the same class.
Let’s take a look at some of the standout aspects of the different models that are available, along with their average listed prices, to inform your approach.
What Key Features Does The JAECOO J5 Offer?
You can select from three variants of the more compact JAECOO J5 model.
The entry-level Vortex currently costs around R370,000 and includes cloth seats, a reverse camera, and halogen lights for straightforward functionality.
Moving up, the Glacier, priced at near R430,000 adds leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, and LED lamps, while the top-tier Inferno costs about R480,000 and incorporates ventilated seats, dual-zone climate, and a 540-degree camera system.
All J5 models share a 1.5-litre turbo engine producing 115 kW, paired with a CVT transmission for smooth shifts. This setup can deliver around 7.5L/100km fuel use, which is ideal if agile handling is important to you.
The different models feature slightly different wheel sizes as well, with 17-inch on lower trims versus 18-inch wheels on the premium one. The safety tech in the car also escalates from basic aids to full driver assistance, depending on what you choose.
What Differences Can You Expect in the JAECOO J7 Lineup?
The larger JAECOO J7 is great if you want a bit more space, starting with the Vortex at about R520,000, which features two-wheel drive and eco modes to maximise efficiency.
The Glacier has a price tag of around R580,000 and maintains a similar drive but has enhanced 19-inch wheels. The Inferno, costing about R680,000, introduces all-wheel drive with sand or mud settings so you can drive on any terrain.
A plug-in hybrid version, the J7 SHS, is also available at roughly R690,000. This model combines a 1.5-litre engine and electric motor for 255 kW total, offering a 90 km electric range that may extend your overall travel beyond 1,200 km.
The standard J7 models use a 1.6-litre turbo yielding 145 kW with a seven-speed dual clutch, potentially achieving 7L/100km at peak efficiency. Each model also has variations in torque response and interior perks, like ventilated seats or panoramic roofs, across the higher specs.
Check out our JAECOO listings and keep an eye out for the new J6 and J8 models, which will become available soon. If you’re keen to buy, apply for finance online now or visit one of our dealers to see the cars in person.
