Considering a JAECOO J7? Here are the specs, features and where to test drive in Malaysia

The JAECOO J7 brings a more rugged look to Malaysia's C-segment SUV market, with its boxy design setting it apart from the more conventional SUVs on sale.

JAECOO, a relatively new brand under Chery, combines off-road styling with features aimed at everyday driving, and the J7 has drawn considerable interest since its local launch.

The JAECOO J7 is currently available in Malaysia in two petrol variants:

• JAECOO J7 2WD Standard: RM 138,800
• JAECOO J7 4WD Standard: RM 148,800

Both share the same engine and much of their equipment, but the RM 10k price difference brings more than just an extra pair of driven wheels.

Engine and performance

Both variants of the JAECOO J7 are powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (7DCT).

The engine produces 194 hp (145 kW) and 290 Nm of torque, while top speed is rated at 180 km/h.

The JAECOO J7 2WD Standard sends power to the front wheels and completes the 0–100 km/h sprint in a claimed 9.2 seconds. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 7.0 L/100 km.

The JAECOO J7 4WD Standard uses the ARDIS intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which offers seven driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, Sand, Mud, Snowfield and Off-road. Its claimed 0–100 km/h time is 9.9 seconds, while combined fuel consumption rises to 7.7 L/100 km.

So while the 2WD is slightly quicker and uses less fuel, the 4WD offers additional traction for drivers who regularly travel on wet, slippery or unpaved roads.

Dimensions and boot space

The JAECOO J7 measures 4,500 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width and 1,680 mm in height, with a 2,672 mm wheelbase.

Boot capacity is 424 litres, giving the J7 enough luggage space for daily errands and weekend trips.

What equipment do you get?

The JAECOO J7 comes with a fairly extensive list of standard equipment, so buyers opting for the 2WD won't be missing out on many of the main features.

Exterior

Both variants get 19-inch Aurora alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, a hands-free powered tailgate, a panoramic sunroof and acoustic glass.

Infotainment and connectivity

Both variants feature a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.

The 2WD comes with a 13.2-inch central touchscreen, while the 4WD gets a larger 14.8-inch portrait-oriented display and a 50W wireless phone charger with cooling.

Comfort

Standard equipment includes synthetic leather upholstery, electrically adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, dual-zone automatic climate control with an N95 air filtration system, and an eight-speaker Sony sound system.

Safety and driver assistance

Both variants come with a range of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including a 540-degree surround-view camera with a transparent chassis view, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Traffic Jam Assist (TJA).

Where to see the JAECOO J7 in Kuala Lumpur

At RM 138,800, the JAECOO J7 2WD Standard covers most of what buyers would want for everyday driving.

It has the same engine as the 4WD, a slightly quicker 0–100 km/h time and lower claimed fuel consumption. It also retains most of the equipment, including the Sony audio system, ventilated front seats and ADAS features.

For another RM 10k, the JAECOO J7 4WD Standard adds all-wheel drive with seven driving modes, a larger infotainment screen and 50W wireless charging. It is the one to consider if you frequently drive on less predictable road surfaces or enjoy occasional trips off the beaten track.

Omoda & Jaecoo Federal Auto

The JAECOO J7 can be viewed at Omoda Jaecoo Federal Auto (Jln Kuching), an authorised showroom in Kuala Lumpur.

According to feedback from visitors, the showroom is bright and comfortable, while the sales consultants have been praised for being courteous, knowledgeable and willing to explain the cars without putting pressure on customers to buy.

Visitors have also reported positive experiences when viewing the cars and arranging test drives.

Omoda & Jaecoo Federal Auto

If you'd like to see the JAECOO J7 for yourself, you can visit the showroom or contact the dealer to arrange a viewing or test drive.

• Dealer: Omoda Jaecoo Federal Auto (Jln Kuching)
• Address: 92, Jln Kuching, Kampung Pasir Segambut, 51200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
• Phone: +60 14-385 9876
• Facebook: Omoda Jaecoo Federal Auto

Interested in the JAECOO J7? Click "Request a Quote" and our sales team will contact you with a personalised offer.