The Australian market is seeing a surge of new Chinese-built SUVs, and the Jaecoo J5 is the latest arrival. This compact electric vehicle (EV) is poised to compete with established players like the Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, and MG ZS, offering a blend of style, space, and affordability. This first drive report explores the J5’s key features, driving experience, and potential impact on the Australian EV landscape.
Positioning and Price
Jaecoo, Chery’s adventure-seeking sister brand, will launch the J5 in Australia with three powertrain options: petrol, hybrid, and fully electric. The EV variant will arrive first next month, with the other options following in February. Pricing is expected to undercut the larger J7, with estimates of under $30,000 for the petrol version and under $40,000 for the EV. This aggressive pricing strategy could make the J5 a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Interior Space and Comfort
Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the J5 offers a surprisingly spacious cabin. Headroom and legroom are generous in both rows, comfortably accommodating adults or three children across the bench. Cargo space is also impressive, with 480 liters—comparable to larger SUVs. The flat floor, enabled by the battery pack placement, enhances interior packaging.
The cabin design is minimalist yet functional, with a mix of fabric and synthetic leather trim. The front seats are supportive, though the bottom cushion may be short for some. Rear occupants also enjoy ample comfort, with a fold-down armrest and USB charging ports. Unique to the J5 is its certification as the world’s first pet-friendly car, featuring anti-bacterial and anti-scratch silicone seat coverings.
The dashboard layout is simple, with an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a large 13.2-inch portrait-style infotainment touchscreen. The touchscreen controls most functions, though physical buttons for driving modes and hazard lights are retained. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with a wireless phone charger and embedded satellite navigation.
Electric Powertrain and Performance
The J5 EV is powered by a single electric motor producing 155kW and 288Nm, driving the front wheels. The 58.9kWh battery delivers a claimed range of 402km (WLTP). Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes 7.7 seconds, with a top speed of 175km/h.
The J5 supports 80kW DC fast-charging, replenishing from 30-80% in approximately 28 minutes. The driving experience is smooth and refined, with seamless acceleration and conservative regenerative braking. The car feels planted and well-balanced, though the electric power steering lacks feedback.
Safety Features
The J5 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including autonomous emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree parking display. While the car has yet to be independently crash-tested, Jaecoo expects it to achieve a five-star rating.
Ownership Costs
Jaecoo offers an eight-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty with free roadside assistance and capped-price servicing. The brand’s Future Price Promise guarantees a minimum value for all models, regardless of how they were purchased. This commitment to ownership peace of mind could be a key selling point for the J5.
First Impressions
The Jaecoo J5 is an impressive first effort from the Chinese brand. Its combination of space, style, and affordability makes it a compelling contender in the crowded compact EV segment. If priced competitively, the J5 could disrupt the Australian market and attract a new wave of EV buyers. The car’s driving dynamics are more conventional than some EVs, which may appeal to buyers hesitant about fully embracing electric driving.
The J5’s success will depend on Jaecoo’s ability to build trust and deliver on its ownership promises. However, if the brand can overcome these challenges, the J5 has the potential to become a significant player in the Australian automotive landscape
