The Jaecoo J7, Chery’s premium mid-size SUV, is on the brink of launching in Australia.
Spotted testing on Brisbane roads, this sleek newcomer is set to challenge the Toyota RAV4 and other popular SUVs, with both petrol and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants ready to make waves in early 2025.
A New Contender Enters the Scene
As Jaecoo’s debut model in Australia, the J7 aims to blend affordability, luxury, and versatility.
While pricing details remain under wraps, the SUV is poised to target rivals like the Toyota RAV4, BYD Sealion 6, and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. The J7’s bold move into the Australian market follows the success of Chery’s recent relaunch, marking a step up with Jaecoo’s premium positioning.
“We’re excited to introduce Jaecoo as a more premium product line aimed at adventure-focused consumers,” a spokesperson for Jaecoo previously said.
Performance and Powertrains
The 2025 Jaecoo J7 will offer two distinct powertrains:
- Petrol Variant: A turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 137kW of power and 275Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front- and all-wheel-drive options will be available.
- PHEV Variant: A hybrid system combining a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine (115kW/220Nm) with a powerful 150kW electric motor. With a combined output of 255kW and 525Nm, the J7 PHEV boasts an impressive electric-only range of 90km (WLTP) and a combined range of up to 1200km. Fuel efficiency is rated at just 4.0L/100km.
The PHEV’s advanced “Super Hybrid System” enables multiple driving modes, including pure electric, series, parallel, and energy recovery.
Design and Dimensions
At 4500mm long, 1865mm wide, and 1680mm tall, the J7 is slightly shorter than the Toyota RAV4 but offers similar width and road presence.
Its striking exterior design includes LED headlights, a bold grille, and sporty 19-inch alloy wheels, ensuring it turns heads on Australian roads.
Inside, the cabin combines sophistication and technology, featuring:
- A 14.8-inch infotainment screen
- Wireless phone charging
- Premium upholstery with ambient lighting
- Advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking.
2025 Jaecoo J7 PHEV
Competing with Big Names
The Jaecoo J7 enters a crowded but lucrative segment dominated by the Toyota RAV4, Australia’s top-selling SUV.
With its combination of luxury features, competitive pricing, and the allure of PHEV efficiency, the J7 is well-positioned to disrupt the market.
In China, the J7 also offers options like heated and ventilated seats, a head-up display, and a 10.25-inch digital driver’s cluster. Australian specifications will be confirmed closer to its release, but early indications suggest it will be packed with value.
A New Era for Mid-Size SUVs
The arrival of the 2025 Jaecoo J7 marks the beginning of a fresh chapter in Australia’s SUV market.
With its premium features, competitive powertrains, and innovative hybrid technology, this model promises to shake up the landscape and offer a compelling alternative to established players like the Toyota RAV4 and Mitsubishi Outlander.
Will Jaecoo’s first venture onto Australian roads set a new benchmark for value and performance? The competition is fierce, but the J7’s impressive specs suggest it’s more than ready to take on the challenge.
The Jaecoo J7 is slated to arrive in showrooms by Q1 2025, with an official launch expected in the coming weeks.
Will this Chinese SUV succeed in shaking up the Australian SUV landscape? Stay tuned to CarExplore for the latest updates on pricing, specifications, and real-world reviews of this exciting new entrant.
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Aize Carter
Dylan Anderson
