Jaecoo J5 Hybrid and EV models on the cards

The compact SUV space is quite crowded in South Africa, but that does not stop brands from offering even more options for the customer to choose from. The latest offering come from the Chery group in the shape of two new Jaecoo derivatives. The petrol version is now joined by hybrid and full battery-electric power options.

The J5 range

The expansion gives the J5 range a range of propulsions options. There will still be the petrol side of the story, but now buyers can move up to a hybrid or go straight to the BEV if they are ready to leave the pump behind.

The J5 SHS is the headline act for anyone who wants a petrol engine to stay involved. Under the bonnet sits a 1,5-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with the brand’s Dedicated Hybrid Transmission. Output is quoted at 165 kW and 295 N.m, all of it sent to the front wheels. Those are healthy figures for a compact SUV, especially once you factor in the claimed fuel consumption of 5,3 L/100 km and a theoretical range of more than 900 km on a single tank.

A 1,83 kWh battery handles the low-speed electric running, so the J5 SHS can creep along quietly in traffic and then wake the petrol engine when needed. The battery is small by EV standards so we don’t expect the EV-only range to be impressive.

Standard equipment includes leather upholstery, a 13,2-inch infotainment screen, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a panoramic moonroof, a power-operated tailgate, dual-zone climate control and a six-speaker sound system.

The BEV for early adopters

The J5 BEV is the more significant launch in brand terms because it marks Jaecoo’s first fully electric model. It arrives alongside the hybrid, which is a smart bit of sequencing. One car offers an easy transition. The other announces that the brand intends to play in the EV space.

Power comes from a 58,9 kWh battery and a front-mounted electric motor. The output figures are 155 kW and 288 N.m. DC fast charging is quoted at up to 130 kW, with a 30 to 80 percent refill taking 28 minutes. That is the kind of charging window that can easily handled during a lunch stop.

Range and consumption numbers for the BEV will be released closer to the local on-sale date, so the final word on real-world usability is still pending.

The cabin spec carries over from the hybrid. The J5 BEV will also get the black leather, 13,2-inch infotainment screen, power-adjustable driver’s seat, panoramic moonroof, power tailgate and dual-zone climate control. The sound system changes to an eight-speaker setup, and the car will carry a comprehensive standard safety and driver assistance package.