Jaecoo J7 Buyer’s Guide: Models, Price & Best Pick for You!
RobertJun 10, 2025, 12:11 PM
【PCauto】The arrival of Jaecoo J7 has indeed brought a breath of fresh air. Shortly after its launch in October last year, it became the best-selling non-local SUV in Malaysia. Following the pure gasoline version, Jaecoo Malaysia introduced the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of J7 in late February this year, providing more options for consumers. Currently, J7 is available in Malaysia with three versions:
– J7 Pure 2WD (Pure Gasoline, 2WD): On-the-road price (without insurance) is approximately RM 138,800;
– J7 Premium 4WD (Pure Gasoline, 4WD): On-the-road price (without insurance) is RM 148,800;
– J7 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid): Only available in high-spec configuration, with an on-the-road price (without insurance) of RM 158,800. Notably, this price is lower than the initial estimate of RM 170k, and just RM 10,000 more than the top-tier gasoline Premium 4WD model.
Core Differences among 3 Versions
First, the J7 Pure/Premium is equipped with a 1.6L turbocharged gasoline engine, delivering 194hp and 290N·m of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Premium variant offers a four-wheel-drive system. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is approximately 9.2 seconds (Premium 4WD).
The J7 PHEV, however, is entirely different. It adopts a plug-in hybrid system (Super Hybrid System, SHS) combining a 1.5L turbocharged engine with an electric motor. The engine alone produces 141hp/215N·m, while the electric motor adds 204hp/310N·m, delivering a combined output of 347hp and 525N·m of torque. The drivetrain uses a single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) with front-wheel drive. Despite its heavier weight (1,795kg), its 0-100km/h acceleration has been improved to 8.5 seconds, with a top speed of 180km/h.
Fuel consumption of the gasoline J7 depends on driving habits and road conditions, falling within the standard range for conventional fuel vehicles.
For the PHEV variant, fuel efficiency is its standout advantage. With an 18.3kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, it offers a pure-electric range of 106km under NEDC standards (88km under WLTP). The system reserves at least 20% battery charge to protect the battery.
More impressive is the PHEV’s exceptional total range: combined with its 60L fuel tank, it achieves up to 1,300km under NEDC (1,200km under WLTP). Officially, post-depletion (at 20% SOC), fuel consumption is rated at 4.77L/100km (NEDC), though real-world tests (e.g., a 1,066km trip from Singapore to Hat Yai) have recorded averages as low as 3.8L/100km.
The battery supports 40kW DC fast charging (~20 minutes for 30%-80%) and 6.6kW AC home charging (~4 hours for a full charge; wall-mounted charger sold separately).
Exterior Differences Between PHEV and Gasoline Versions
In exterior, the PHEV boasts unique identity markers: 19-inch aerodynamic wheels, more streamlined door mirrors, checkered flag patterns on door trim, removal of the gasoline version’s fake exhaust decorations, and a prominent “PHEV” badge at the rear. The gasoline variants (2WD/4WD) share nearly identical exteriors.
In interior, the PHEV adopts a more minimalist cabin design with cleaner door panel lines (eliminating bulky handles and physical mirror adjusters). The most significant change is at the center console—replacing the gasoline version’s large drive mode knob and traditional gear lever with a steering-column-mounted shifter. The remaining space accommodates physical buttons for EV/hybrid mode toggling. Its 10.25-inch instrument cluster features PHEV-specific display.
