Jaecoo 7 SHS Review - FQ Magazine

In the competitive world of SUVs, the Jaecoo 7 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) stands out as an attractive option – one you wouldn’t hesitate to welcome onto your driveway, writes Tim Barnes-Clay.

At first glance, its design hints at Range Rover sophistication, which could spark intrigue among neighbours – after all, who doesn’t enjoy a good conversation starter about automotive luxury?

To give it its full name, the front-wheel drive Jaecoo 7 SHS (Super Hybrid System) reveals itself as a family-oriented vehicle. There’s generous space for passengers and cargo alike, making it ideal for weekend getaways, everyday drives to work or the school run.

Available exclusively in Luxury trim, the cabin exudes comfort and style, featuring a stunning panoramic sunroof that fills the interior with light, paired with plush leatherette seats. The added heat and ventilation in the front chairs allow for an enjoyable driving experience, a welcome feature in places with changeable weather like Cape Town. Hang on – where? Well, I was lucky enough to experience this SUV at an international media drive in South Africa.

The Jaecoo’s technology is also notable. The head-up display maintains vital information at eye level, while electrically adjustable seats and lumbar support provide comfort on long trips. Music lovers will be impressed with the eight-speaker Sony audio system, which delivers rich sound to complement multi-colour ambient lighting, making the interior feel even more welcoming.

Regarding convenience and safety, the Jaecoo 7 doesn’t hold back. Tech, such as adaptive cruise control and keyless entry, is designed with usability in mind, and the panoramic camera sorts out any parking stress. The SUV also comes equipped with multiple airbags, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, a driver monitoring system, lane departure warning, and road sign recognition.

Of course, no new car these days would be complete without a touchscreen – and the 7 doesn’t disappoint. Its infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto, so your connectivity needs are served. However, some of the operations on the touchscreen, such as temperature settings and wing mirror adjustments, would benefit from using physical buttons, as it can be tricky accessing these on the move.

The front-wheel drive Jaecoo 7 SHS’s 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit, paired with an electric motor, delivers a largely commendable driving experience. However, the lack of a four-wheel drive option was particularly felt during our jaunt on a couple of unpaved South African roads. (If you want 4WD, you’ll have to stick with the Luxury version of the petrol-only Jaecoo 7). Also, while the steering offers two modes – light Normal and heavy Sport – there’s room for improvement in terms of feedback during enthusiastic cornering.

Performance-wise, the Jaecoo 7 gets to 62 mph in 8.5 seconds, with the CVT transmission providing smooth motoring up to a maximum speed of 112 mph. The vehicle’s EV mode, easily accessible via a console switch, offers silent electric propulsion with zero emissions, while the hybrid mode smartly transitions between petrol and electric power.

On our travels along South Africa’s picturesque Garden Route, the front seats provided heaps of room, allowing my co-driver and me to get comfortable without elbows bumping. The rear seats, which feature Isofix points for child seats, easily accommodated two adults, although three can be fitted if need be.

When it comes to cargo, the 7 impresses with a boot capacity of 412 litres. As an example, that means it’ll fit two suitcases, a few bags, or a golf set alongside a baby pram. For larger loads, the back seats fold down in a 60/40 split, providing enough space for furniture or a tip run.

Powered by an 18.3 kWh battery, the Jaecoo 7 offers an all-electric driving range of 56 miles. The combined output is 204 PS and 310 Nm of torque, paired with a 60-litre fuel tank that grants an impressive total range of 745 miles. You can confidently embark on significant road trips, as I found while on a safari drive from Cape Town to Addo Elephant National Park – a mere fraction of this SUV’s capabilities.

The Jaecoo 7 SHS is a vehicle for families and road trip lovers alike, providing comfort, style, and functionality. It’s a good choice for anyone seeking a balanced SUV that can withstand the demands of modern life without ever compromising its air of refinement.

As you will have guessed, Jaecoo is not just competing in the UK market. With its performance and flexible features, the 7 will shine in other parts of the world – from the UK’s roads to, as I discovered, South Africa’s breathtaking landscapes.