Peter Lyon
July 5, 2025
Omoda Jaecoo Malaysia has just used a Facebook post to announce that the Jaecoo J8 SUV will be officially launched on July 18. The crossover, which was previewed in March of this year, will enter the market at an estimated RM195,000 and be available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions.
At the top of Omoda and Jaecoo’s lineup will be the J8, a D-segment SUV boasting dimensions of 4.82 meters by 1.93 meters by 1.71 meters and a wheelbase of 2.82 meters. That puts it in direct competition with vehicles like the Proton X90, Mazda CX-8, Kia Sorento, and the recently unveiled Hyundai Santa Fe. Both five- and six-seater versions will be available; the latter is only available in the AWD version and has a 2-2-2 seating arrangement.
The cabin employs two 12.3-inch screens—one for the digital instrument cluster and one for the infotainment system in the middle. The car’s basic features include a 12-speaker Sony sound system, faux leather interior, and a 540-degree surround vision camera. In contrast, the more expensive AWD model has been enhanced with a 14-speaker Sony sound system that includes head-rest speakers, motorised doors, and an aroma system.
In addition, the premium AWD model has a Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension system, a ventilated driver’s seat, an integrated digital video recorder (DVR) and NFC (Near Field Communication) for key card entry.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 249 horsepower and 385 Nm of torque will power both Jaecoo J8 models. According to Jaecoo, the AWD version can reach a high speed of 200 km/h and sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in nine seconds.
Jaecoo also revealed at the preview that the J8 will come in three different colours: Olive Grey, Khaki White, and Carbon Crystal Black. The same colours will be offered for the AWD version, but it will have a black-out roof for a two-tone look.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Despite the oversized grille, the Jaecoo J8 is a good-looking SUV with bold proportions and soft edges. Given its specs, range, performance and interior features, the J8 is expected to do well in the marketplace, and that includes Europe.
