To further reinforce its lineup in Malaysia, Jaecoo will soon debut its flagship and fourth model, the J8. Two versions will be available—the Jaecoo J8 Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) and the Jaecoo J8 All-Wheel Drive (AWD), the latter of which is the main model. It has six seats and two captain chairs in the second row, and starts from around RM195,000.
With dimensions of 4.82 meters by 1.93 meters by 1.71 meters and a wheelbase of 2.82 meters, the Jaecoo J8 is classified as a D-segment SUV and is comparable in size to the Mazda CX-8 and Kia Sorento.
With its huge, slightly in-your-face front grille and headlights that combine design elements of a Mercedes-Benz GLC and Range Rover, the J8’s exterior makes a powerful statement. Additionally, when unlocked, the flush-type door handles protrude outward for easy access. Like the Omoda C9, it has twin exhaust pipes and a full-width tail light bar across the rear.
Presently on display in Malaysia, the AWD version gets a 6-seater arrangement in a 2-2-2 configuration and includes a central walk-through in the second row that leads to the third row. The 2WD version’s boot space is listed at 738 litres, while the AWD version’s is 200 litres.
The 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that powers the J8 generates 249 horsepower and 385 Nm of torque. Mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, this SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9 seconds and has a top speed of 200 km/h.
The Jaecoo J8 is also offered as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in its native China, a version boasting a 1.5-liter PHEV unit producing a healthy 605 horsepower and 915 Nm when paired with two electric motors and a dedicated hybrid gearbox (DHT).
Even though specs are still sketchy, Jaecoo Malaysia tells us that the SUV will have a 540-degree panoramic camera and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The J8 2WD will offer ambient lighting, faux leather seats, and a 12-speaker Sony sound system. Meanwhile, the AWD model receives a number of improvements, such as a 14-speaker Sony Sound System with headrest speakers, controlled doors, and a scent dispersal system.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Wanting to strengthen its brand presence, the J8 comes with arguably the most over-the-top grille to come out of China in a while. But with German rivals in BMW, Mercedes and Audi all enhancing their grille designs of late, such self-confidence is the new industry norm. And boasting sleek exterior looks, a decent powertrain, high-quality cabin and a competitive price, we expect the J8 to do well.