Summary
Jaecoo is gearing up to join Australia’s bustling SUV market under the Chery umbrella in early 2025, and the J8 is its forthcoming medium-large SUV offering.
Riding on Chery underpinnings, the seven-seater J8 (also available with five- or six-seat configurations) aims for a more premium, refined edge than its Omoda siblings.
With a 2.0-litre turbo-four delivering a healthy 195kW/400Nm, it offers respectable performance and decent refinement on the road.
Inside, there’s a distinct Mercedes-inspired design language - from the digital cockpit to column-mounted shifter - and the top-spec Flagship trim features plush Nappa leather, a panoramic sunroof, and second-row captain’s chairs with massage.
While the drive experience is smooth but not sporty, the J8’s interior quality, robust features list, and potential keen pricing could put it on many family buyers’ radar.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Premium look and feel inside, especially in top trims
- Generously equipped with advanced safety and convenience tech
- Smooth engine and respectable performance for a 2.0-litre turbo
Cons
- Driving experience is more comfy than engaging
- Fiddly column shifter requires a firm hand
- Third-row access is tricky in six-seat form
Specs
- Body Style: Medium-large SUV (5, 6, or 7 seats)
- Platform: Chery T1X monocoque
- Launched: Global in 2024; Australian launch likely 2025
Engine(s):
- 2.0-litre turbo-petrol (195kW/400Nm)
- Plug-in hybrid (overseas markets)
Pricing
Pricing Information
AED Pricing (UAE Market)
Australian pricing is yet to be confirmed, but if similarly positioned, the J8 could be competitive against mainstream seven-seat SUVs.
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Find me a dealInterior & Features
Premium touches abound in the Jaecoo J8’s cabin, particularly in Flagship spec, which nets you Nappa leather, second-row captain’s chairs with ventilation and massage, and a slick dual-screen cockpit.
Although the design draws inspiration from Mercedes-Benz (notably the column shifter and door-mounted seat controls), quality feels impressive for a still-to-be-launched model from a newcomer brand. Physical HVAC buttons are absent, but crucial climate controls are at least always accessible via a permanent touchscreen tab.
Third-row seating is tight and best for kids; the six-seat version with second-row captain’s chairs makes it awkward to reach the rear-most pews. Still, occupant comfort is otherwise strong, and the multi-zone climate control plus panoramic sunroof help create a welcoming environment.
Engine & Fuel Economy
- 2.0-litre Turbo Petrol (195kW/400Nm)
- Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission
- Front- or all-wheel drive
- 0–100km/h in ~9.0s (AWD), or 8.8s (FWD)
Real-world economy figures remain untested in Australia, but similar 2.0-litre turbo SUVs typically return around 8–10L/100km combined. A PHEV variant exists in some markets, with up to 450kW/915Nm, though there’s no firm word on an Australian release.
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Expert Media Reviews
Score: n/a
"All told, the Jaecoo J8 is a polished and well-rounded offering that should be able to hold its own against established players in the seven-seat SUV segment."
Link: Read review
Safety Rating
The Jaecoo J8 has not yet been tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP. However, it borrows heavily from Chery’s existing safety tech, and Chery’s other recent models (e.g. Omoda 5) have secured solid ratings.
Standard kit is expected to include AEB, lane departure prevention, adaptive cruise control, and multiple airbags. Top trims add features like blind-spot detection, emergency lane-keep assist, and even automated parking.
Eco Rating
No GreenNCAP or other eco rating is currently available for the Jaecoo J8. The 2.0-litre turbo petrol’s consumption is likely mid-range for the segment, while the PHEV variant (if launched locally) could offer impressively low emissions and strong EV range.
Reliability Rating
Being a new model from a relatively fresh face in the Aussie market, the J8’s long-term reliability is unproven.
However, a 7-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty (as is standard with Chery) is likely to apply, providing peace of mind. Once real-world owner reviews roll in, we’ll update this assessment.
Cost of Ownership
- Service Intervals: TBD, likely ~12 months/10-15k km
- Fuel Requirement: 95 RON or higher recommended
- Ownership Perks: If Jaecoo mirrors Chery’s after-sales package, expect roadside assistance for the warranty duration
Full service pricing will be announced closer to the local launch, but if the brand’s Omoda 5 is any indication, it could be quite competitive.
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Conclusion
The 2025 Jaecoo J8 enters a crowded seven-seat SUV market brimming with established names, yet it stands out with its upscale cabin, robust feature set, and promise of a competitive price tag. It’s not the most dynamic choice behind the wheel, but few buyers in this space prioritize sports-car handling. Instead, the J8’s smooth ride, well-finished interior, and decent performance align with the needs of everyday family driving.
Should Jaecoo follow Chery’s formula of offering attractive warranty coverage and sharp pricing, the J8 could become a real contender against popular rivals like the Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento, and Mazda CX-80. Keep it on your radar if you’re shopping for a well-equipped and stylish family SUV that doesn’t break the bank.
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Dylan Anderson
