NEW SUV BRAND LAUNCHES IN SOUTH AFRICA, AT A COMPETITIVE PRICE

The J7 sports-utility vehicle (SUV) from Chinese car brand Jaecoo has launched in South Africa.

Chery/Omoda & Jaecoo South Africa says the urban off-road SUV brand is set to take the local market by storm. There are three J7 derivatives, priced between R549 900 and R679 900.

The SUV’s sleek lines have drawn comparisons to a Range Rover, with the brand so far receiving positive reviews.

The first right-hand drive market

According to Tony Liu, executive deputy GM of Chery/Omoda & Jaecoo SA, South Africa marks the J7’s debut in a right-hand-drive market and the first foray into Africa.

The J7 lineup comprises the Vortex, Glacier, and range-topping Inferno models. These are all equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine generating 145 kW and 290 Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The base Vortex grade includes:

  • Power-adjustable front seats
  • An electric tailgate
  • 13.2-inch touchscreen
  • 360° panoramic camera system
  • Wireless smartphone charging
  • 18-inch alloy wheels (framing red brake callipers)
  • LED headlamps
  • Front foglamps
  • Automatic windscreen wipers
  • Seven airbags
  • Front radar

The Jaecoo J7 also offers enhanced capabilities compared to typical unibody SUVs. This includes a ground clearance of 200mm, wading depth of 600mm, and approach and departure angles of 21° and 29° respectively.

All J7 variants come with a five-year/70 000 km service plan, and a five-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty.

An additional 10-year engine warranty (or a million kilometres) is also included in the purchase price.

Independent SUV brand within the Chery group

Jaecoo is already established in Europe, Russia, Malaysia, and the Middle East. Jaecoo debuted as an independent, urban off-road SUV brand within the Chery group after being announced at Auto Shanghai 2023.

The name Jaecoo is a blend of ‘jäger’, meaning ‘hunter’ in German, and ‘cool’ in English.

Jaecoo has a network of 37 dealerships across the country, and South Africa can anticipate the introduction of the J7 plug-in hybrid and the flagship J8 later in 2024.

2024-04-15T15:34:57Z dg43tfdfdgfd