Jaecoo is preparing to expand its roster in South Africa with the launch of multiple new vehicles.
While the Chinese carmaker’s catalogue is currently limited to the J7 SUV, this list will soon grow with the addition of models like the brand-new J5.
The J5 will serve as the brand’s entry-level model when it touches down in South Africa, slotting below the J7 and the upcoming J8.
Even so, there’s nothing entry-level about the J5’s specifications, which are likely to make it one of the most well-kitted vehicles in its segment when it reaches South Africa.
TopAuto was able to preview the compact SUV on a recent trip to China, where we were given a better sense of what to expect from the car’s powertrain and feature selection.
What’s in store
Jaecoo, for those who aren’t familiar, is one of two carmakers that form the “O&J” brand in South Africa alongside Omoda.
While Omoda is focused on urban crossovers like the C5, Jaecoo is more specialized towards outdoor SUVs.
This was on full display with the J5 we were presented with at a media event in the company’s hometown of Wuhu in China.
The J5 was decked out with a variety of camping-themed accessories, from a side awning to an overhead lighting rig.
Like the J7, the J5 is expected to be offered in both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations, with the latter presumably being reserved for the top-end derivatives.
As far as the powertrains are concerned, you can expect two vastly different options.
The first is a familiar 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which produces 115kW and 230Nm and is paired to a CVT transmission.
Alternatively, the Jaecoo will also be offered as a battery-electric vehicle, though the specifications of this drivetrain have yet to be announced.
It’ll be easy to tell the difference between the two versions once they arrive in South Africa, however, as the electric model has a closed-off front end while the petrol version has a prominent grille with vertical chrome slats.
We’ll also have to wait until launch to learn the J5’s pricing and spec sheet, but one of the features shown thus far is a large portrait 13.2-inch infotainment screen.
It also comes with dual wireless charging pads, automatic climate control, artificial leather upholstery, and a sunroof.
Jaecoo J5 in Wuhu, China
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