Jaecoo J5 EV buyer's guide: What does the RM 125k price tag offer?

On 2 September, the Jaecoo J5 EV will officially launch at Parc, Subang Jaya. This marks Omoda Jaecoo's first fully electric vehicle (EV) in Malaysia. With an estimated price of RM125,000, it is RM17,000 pricier than the petrol-powered J5 (RM108,000).

Competitive CKD pricing

The J5 EV will be locally assembled (CKD) right from launch, produced at Chery’s plant in Shah Alam. This ensures better parts availability and after-sales support compared to fully imported (CBU) models, while also leaving room for potential price adjustments down the road.

Powertrain and performance

Powered by a front-mounted single motor, it delivers 211 PS (155 kW) and 288 Nm of torque. It completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.7 seconds, onto a top speed of 175 km/h.

For comparison, the petrol-powered J5 does 0-100 km/h in 10.2 seconds.

Range and Charging

Fitted with a 58.9 kWh CATL lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, it offers a WLTP-rated range of 402 km. Interestingly, the Malaysian-spec battery is larger than Thailand's (50.6 kWh) but slightly smaller than Indonesia's (60.9 kWh).

DC fast charging supports up to 130 kW, taking 28 minutes to charge from 30% to 80% SoC.

The inclusion of 11 kW three-phase AC charging is a rare feature in this segment. Most EVs priced within the RM100k to RM130k bracket only support up to 7 kW (or lower) AC charging.

With the J5 EV, a full charge via a home wallbox takes just 7 hours. It also features a 3.3 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function.

Cargo space and frunk capacity

Measuring 4,380 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and with a 2,620 mm wheelbase, it is close in size to the Honda HR-V and Proton X50.

It offers a boot capacity of 480 litres, a frunk (front trunk) of 35 litres, and up to 35 storage compartments throughout the cabin.

Comprehensive equipment list

13.2-inch 2K central infotainment screen

8.88-inch digital instrument cluster

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

50W wireless charger

Panoramic glass sunroof

Ventilated power-adjustable front seats

Dual-zone automatic climate control

360-degree surround-view camera

Power tailgate

TÜV-certified pet mode

The J5 EV positions itself uniquely as a pet-friendly SUV.

The seats are upholstered in TÜV-certified synthetic leather, which boasts anti-bacterial, scratch-resistant, and low VOC properties.

Pet Mode keeps the cabin temperature comfortable for pets when the owner steps away, and there is also a dedicated Camping Mode.

Level 2+ ADAS & 540-degree camera

With 6 airbags as standard, the Jaecoo J5 EV features a Level 2+ ADAS suite (19 functions), including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Centring Assist, Blind Spot Detection with collision prevention, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert with auto braking.

A 540-degree HD surround-view camera (360-degree view + transparent chassis) is also fitted.

Who is it for?

The J5 EV's spec sheet is highly competitive for its price bracket. Offering a 480-litre boot, 11 kW AC charging, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, Level 2+ ADAS, a 540-degree camera, and Pet Mode—all for an estimated RM125,000—delivers exceptional value for money.

Who is it for? Young families, urban commuters, and pet owners.

If you can charge at home, keep your daily commute within 300 km, and want a well-equipped electric SUV, the J5 EV is highly worth considering at this price point.

However, if you frequently travel long distances, require fast charging on the go, or prioritise resale value, you might want to cross-shop other alternatives in this segment.