Latest news with #Jaecoo
Auto Car
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Car
Chinese car makers plant flag atop UK plug-in hybrid market
Close Chinese car makers have broken the stranglehold of Volkswagen, Ford and the premium brands on the booming UK plug-in hybrid market, taking the top two positions in May. The BYD Seal U took the top spot with 1576 sales, followed by the Jaecoo 7 with 1346 sales, according to figures from market analyst Jato Dynamics. The Volkswagen Tiguan was third, followed by the Ford Kuga and Range Rover Sport. The situation in the UK is being played out across Europe, where sales of Chinese PHEVs rose 421% to 30,400 in the first four months of the year, giving them an 8.3%
The Advertiser
13-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Jaecoo J7 SHS: A new hybrid SUV with urban style and long-distance capability
SPONSORED Meet the Jaecoo J7, a new mid-size SUV shaped by the design philosophy "From Classic, Beyond Classic". It aims to blend rugged off-road style with refined urban sophistication. And this SHS version – a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) – finished in Lunar Silver nails that balance to a tee. Jaecoo may be a fresh face in Australia, but it's part of a familiar name in the automotive world. It sits under the Chery umbrella, China's largest vehicle exporter, which already offers local buyers Omoda and Tiggo models. The J7 is positioned as a more premium alternative. Priced from $34,990 drive-away for the petrol variant and topping out at $47,990 for the SHS Summit you see here, the J7 offers a design that mixes sharp lines and SUV proportions that would be right at home on higher-end luxury SUVs. We drove the range-topping SHS version that introduces Jaecoo's Super Hybrid System, appealing to those who want great fuel-efficiency and a taste of electric driving without fully committing to an EV. With a claimed electric-only range of up to 106km, it could suit many daily commutes without using petrol, and its WLTP-rated combined range of over 1200km gives it decent long-distance touring potential, too. CarExpert recently tested this range claim, and we came extremely close to the 1200km figure in real-world conditions. That type of range will see you get from Sydney to Noosa on Queensland's Sunshine Coast without stopping, and having some range left in the tank when you get there. Under the bonnet, it pairs a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 105kW of power and 215Nm of torque, with a 150kW electric motor and an 18.3kWh battery. It uses a single-speed hybrid transmission, and transitions between electric and petrol power reasonably smoothly. The J7 SHS is front-wheel drive only for now, but an all-wheel drive version is reportedly on the way, too. Jaecoo claims the J7 SHS will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds, which is about average for a hybrid SUV of this size. Thanks to the electric motor, it feels quicker at low speeds, especially from a standstill. Fuel consumption is officially around just 1.0L/100km, though real-world results will vary based on driving style and both charging levels and frequency. AC charging at home is possible at up to 6.6kW, which takes about 160 minutes to take the battery from 25 per cent to full. For quicker top-ups, DC fast-charging at up to 40kW will supply a 30-80 per cent charge in around 20 minutes. Inside, the five-seat J7 SHS is fitted with a large 14.8-inch portrait-style infotainment touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, on a clean dashboard layout. Most surfaces are soft-touch, and the synthetic leather-trimmed seats are pretty comfortable. The ambient lighting and panoramic sunroof add some visual appeal, while the Sony eight-speaker audio system is a nice inclusion at this price point. Tech-wise, there's wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though the interface and responsiveness may not match more established brands. All the essential controls are accessed through the touchscreen or steering wheel, with a few physical buttons to operate drive modes. The J7 SHS can comfortably seat five adults and, while the hybrid battery slightly reduces boot space, the rear seats do fold flat to expand cargo capacity when needed. The J7 SHS Summit is priced at $47,990 drive-away, which undercuts other plug-in hybrid medium SUVs from China and is about $10,000 or more beneath rivals from Japan, and less than half the price of German equivalents. Jaecoo backs all of its models with an eight-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty for the entire vehicle including its high-voltage battery – for all customers, regardless of servicing – and it includes roadside assistance and a capped-price service program for the same duration, which is a strong value proposition. The Jaecoo J7 SHS arrives with a very competitive price, solid hybrid capability, and a feature-packed interior. While it doesn't push boundaries in terms of performance or refinement, it does provide a super affordable way to step into a distinctive plug-in hybrid medium SUV. Throw in a solid five-star ANCAP safety rating thanks to eight airbags and 17 advanced driver assistance aids, and the Jaecoo J7 SHS should be an enticing option for buyers who want a safe, efficient and high-tech family SUV – without breaking the bank. Interested in buying a Jaecoo J7? Get in touch with one of CarExpert's trusted dealers hereMORE: Everything Jaecoo J7 Content originally sourced from: SPONSORED Meet the Jaecoo J7, a new mid-size SUV shaped by the design philosophy "From Classic, Beyond Classic". It aims to blend rugged off-road style with refined urban sophistication. And this SHS version – a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) – finished in Lunar Silver nails that balance to a tee. Jaecoo may be a fresh face in Australia, but it's part of a familiar name in the automotive world. It sits under the Chery umbrella, China's largest vehicle exporter, which already offers local buyers Omoda and Tiggo models. The J7 is positioned as a more premium alternative. Priced from $34,990 drive-away for the petrol variant and topping out at $47,990 for the SHS Summit you see here, the J7 offers a design that mixes sharp lines and SUV proportions that would be right at home on higher-end luxury SUVs. We drove the range-topping SHS version that introduces Jaecoo's Super Hybrid System, appealing to those who want great fuel-efficiency and a taste of electric driving without fully committing to an EV. With a claimed electric-only range of up to 106km, it could suit many daily commutes without using petrol, and its WLTP-rated combined range of over 1200km gives it decent long-distance touring potential, too. CarExpert recently tested this range claim, and we came extremely close to the 1200km figure in real-world conditions. That type of range will see you get from Sydney to Noosa on Queensland's Sunshine Coast without stopping, and having some range left in the tank when you get there. Under the bonnet, it pairs a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 105kW of power and 215Nm of torque, with a 150kW electric motor and an 18.3kWh battery. It uses a single-speed hybrid transmission, and transitions between electric and petrol power reasonably smoothly. The J7 SHS is front-wheel drive only for now, but an all-wheel drive version is reportedly on the way, too. Jaecoo claims the J7 SHS will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds, which is about average for a hybrid SUV of this size. Thanks to the electric motor, it feels quicker at low speeds, especially from a standstill. Fuel consumption is officially around just 1.0L/100km, though real-world results will vary based on driving style and both charging levels and frequency. AC charging at home is possible at up to 6.6kW, which takes about 160 minutes to take the battery from 25 per cent to full. For quicker top-ups, DC fast-charging at up to 40kW will supply a 30-80 per cent charge in around 20 minutes. Inside, the five-seat J7 SHS is fitted with a large 14.8-inch portrait-style infotainment touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, on a clean dashboard layout. Most surfaces are soft-touch, and the synthetic leather-trimmed seats are pretty comfortable. The ambient lighting and panoramic sunroof add some visual appeal, while the Sony eight-speaker audio system is a nice inclusion at this price point. Tech-wise, there's wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though the interface and responsiveness may not match more established brands. All the essential controls are accessed through the touchscreen or steering wheel, with a few physical buttons to operate drive modes. The J7 SHS can comfortably seat five adults and, while the hybrid battery slightly reduces boot space, the rear seats do fold flat to expand cargo capacity when needed. The J7 SHS Summit is priced at $47,990 drive-away, which undercuts other plug-in hybrid medium SUVs from China and is about $10,000 or more beneath rivals from Japan, and less than half the price of German equivalents. Jaecoo backs all of its models with an eight-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty for the entire vehicle including its high-voltage battery – for all customers, regardless of servicing – and it includes roadside assistance and a capped-price service program for the same duration, which is a strong value proposition. The Jaecoo J7 SHS arrives with a very competitive price, solid hybrid capability, and a feature-packed interior. While it doesn't push boundaries in terms of performance or refinement, it does provide a super affordable way to step into a distinctive plug-in hybrid medium SUV. Throw in a solid five-star ANCAP safety rating thanks to eight airbags and 17 advanced driver assistance aids, and the Jaecoo J7 SHS should be an enticing option for buyers who want a safe, efficient and high-tech family SUV – without breaking the bank. Interested in buying a Jaecoo J7? Get in touch with one of CarExpert's trusted dealers hereMORE: Everything Jaecoo J7 Content originally sourced from: SPONSORED Meet the Jaecoo J7, a new mid-size SUV shaped by the design philosophy "From Classic, Beyond Classic". It aims to blend rugged off-road style with refined urban sophistication. And this SHS version – a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) – finished in Lunar Silver nails that balance to a tee. Jaecoo may be a fresh face in Australia, but it's part of a familiar name in the automotive world. It sits under the Chery umbrella, China's largest vehicle exporter, which already offers local buyers Omoda and Tiggo models. The J7 is positioned as a more premium alternative. Priced from $34,990 drive-away for the petrol variant and topping out at $47,990 for the SHS Summit you see here, the J7 offers a design that mixes sharp lines and SUV proportions that would be right at home on higher-end luxury SUVs. We drove the range-topping SHS version that introduces Jaecoo's Super Hybrid System, appealing to those who want great fuel-efficiency and a taste of electric driving without fully committing to an EV. With a claimed electric-only range of up to 106km, it could suit many daily commutes without using petrol, and its WLTP-rated combined range of over 1200km gives it decent long-distance touring potential, too. CarExpert recently tested this range claim, and we came extremely close to the 1200km figure in real-world conditions. That type of range will see you get from Sydney to Noosa on Queensland's Sunshine Coast without stopping, and having some range left in the tank when you get there. Under the bonnet, it pairs a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 105kW of power and 215Nm of torque, with a 150kW electric motor and an 18.3kWh battery. It uses a single-speed hybrid transmission, and transitions between electric and petrol power reasonably smoothly. The J7 SHS is front-wheel drive only for now, but an all-wheel drive version is reportedly on the way, too. Jaecoo claims the J7 SHS will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds, which is about average for a hybrid SUV of this size. Thanks to the electric motor, it feels quicker at low speeds, especially from a standstill. Fuel consumption is officially around just 1.0L/100km, though real-world results will vary based on driving style and both charging levels and frequency. AC charging at home is possible at up to 6.6kW, which takes about 160 minutes to take the battery from 25 per cent to full. For quicker top-ups, DC fast-charging at up to 40kW will supply a 30-80 per cent charge in around 20 minutes. Inside, the five-seat J7 SHS is fitted with a large 14.8-inch portrait-style infotainment touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, on a clean dashboard layout. Most surfaces are soft-touch, and the synthetic leather-trimmed seats are pretty comfortable. The ambient lighting and panoramic sunroof add some visual appeal, while the Sony eight-speaker audio system is a nice inclusion at this price point. Tech-wise, there's wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though the interface and responsiveness may not match more established brands. All the essential controls are accessed through the touchscreen or steering wheel, with a few physical buttons to operate drive modes. The J7 SHS can comfortably seat five adults and, while the hybrid battery slightly reduces boot space, the rear seats do fold flat to expand cargo capacity when needed. The J7 SHS Summit is priced at $47,990 drive-away, which undercuts other plug-in hybrid medium SUVs from China and is about $10,000 or more beneath rivals from Japan, and less than half the price of German equivalents. Jaecoo backs all of its models with an eight-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty for the entire vehicle including its high-voltage battery – for all customers, regardless of servicing – and it includes roadside assistance and a capped-price service program for the same duration, which is a strong value proposition. The Jaecoo J7 SHS arrives with a very competitive price, solid hybrid capability, and a feature-packed interior. While it doesn't push boundaries in terms of performance or refinement, it does provide a super affordable way to step into a distinctive plug-in hybrid medium SUV. Throw in a solid five-star ANCAP safety rating thanks to eight airbags and 17 advanced driver assistance aids, and the Jaecoo J7 SHS should be an enticing option for buyers who want a safe, efficient and high-tech family SUV – without breaking the bank. Interested in buying a Jaecoo J7? Get in touch with one of CarExpert's trusted dealers hereMORE: Everything Jaecoo J7 Content originally sourced from: SPONSORED Meet the Jaecoo J7, a new mid-size SUV shaped by the design philosophy "From Classic, Beyond Classic". It aims to blend rugged off-road style with refined urban sophistication. And this SHS version – a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) – finished in Lunar Silver nails that balance to a tee. Jaecoo may be a fresh face in Australia, but it's part of a familiar name in the automotive world. It sits under the Chery umbrella, China's largest vehicle exporter, which already offers local buyers Omoda and Tiggo models. The J7 is positioned as a more premium alternative. Priced from $34,990 drive-away for the petrol variant and topping out at $47,990 for the SHS Summit you see here, the J7 offers a design that mixes sharp lines and SUV proportions that would be right at home on higher-end luxury SUVs. We drove the range-topping SHS version that introduces Jaecoo's Super Hybrid System, appealing to those who want great fuel-efficiency and a taste of electric driving without fully committing to an EV. With a claimed electric-only range of up to 106km, it could suit many daily commutes without using petrol, and its WLTP-rated combined range of over 1200km gives it decent long-distance touring potential, too. CarExpert recently tested this range claim, and we came extremely close to the 1200km figure in real-world conditions. That type of range will see you get from Sydney to Noosa on Queensland's Sunshine Coast without stopping, and having some range left in the tank when you get there. Under the bonnet, it pairs a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 105kW of power and 215Nm of torque, with a 150kW electric motor and an 18.3kWh battery. It uses a single-speed hybrid transmission, and transitions between electric and petrol power reasonably smoothly. The J7 SHS is front-wheel drive only for now, but an all-wheel drive version is reportedly on the way, too. Jaecoo claims the J7 SHS will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds, which is about average for a hybrid SUV of this size. Thanks to the electric motor, it feels quicker at low speeds, especially from a standstill. Fuel consumption is officially around just 1.0L/100km, though real-world results will vary based on driving style and both charging levels and frequency. AC charging at home is possible at up to 6.6kW, which takes about 160 minutes to take the battery from 25 per cent to full. For quicker top-ups, DC fast-charging at up to 40kW will supply a 30-80 per cent charge in around 20 minutes. Inside, the five-seat J7 SHS is fitted with a large 14.8-inch portrait-style infotainment touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, on a clean dashboard layout. Most surfaces are soft-touch, and the synthetic leather-trimmed seats are pretty comfortable. The ambient lighting and panoramic sunroof add some visual appeal, while the Sony eight-speaker audio system is a nice inclusion at this price point. Tech-wise, there's wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though the interface and responsiveness may not match more established brands. All the essential controls are accessed through the touchscreen or steering wheel, with a few physical buttons to operate drive modes. The J7 SHS can comfortably seat five adults and, while the hybrid battery slightly reduces boot space, the rear seats do fold flat to expand cargo capacity when needed. The J7 SHS Summit is priced at $47,990 drive-away, which undercuts other plug-in hybrid medium SUVs from China and is about $10,000 or more beneath rivals from Japan, and less than half the price of German equivalents. Jaecoo backs all of its models with an eight-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty for the entire vehicle including its high-voltage battery – for all customers, regardless of servicing – and it includes roadside assistance and a capped-price service program for the same duration, which is a strong value proposition. The Jaecoo J7 SHS arrives with a very competitive price, solid hybrid capability, and a feature-packed interior. While it doesn't push boundaries in terms of performance or refinement, it does provide a super affordable way to step into a distinctive plug-in hybrid medium SUV. Throw in a solid five-star ANCAP safety rating thanks to eight airbags and 17 advanced driver assistance aids, and the Jaecoo J7 SHS should be an enticing option for buyers who want a safe, efficient and high-tech family SUV – without breaking the bank. Interested in buying a Jaecoo J7? Get in touch with one of CarExpert's trusted dealers hereMORE: Everything Jaecoo J7 Content originally sourced from:
The Citizen
10-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Jaecoo J7 SHS hybrid: Stylish tech-laden SUV boasts 1 200km range
Alongside the flagship Omoda C9, Jaecoo has revealed pricing for its hybrid J7 SHS. Here is how much it will cost. Click here and browse thousands of new and used vehicles here with CARmag! Based on the J7 SUV, the J7 SHS (Super Hybrid System) combines a 1.5l turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, using a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) to deliver power exclusively to the front wheels. An 18.3kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery allows for an all-electric range of around 90km and the model can offer a claimed total range of up to 1 200km. Related: Review: Jaecoo J7 SHS (PHEV) Inside, the SUV offers a well-appointed cabin with premium materials and plenty of tech. Features include a 10.25-inch infotainment screen that is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Sony eight-speaker sound system, head-up display, 50W wireless phone charger, dual-zone climate control (with rear vents), heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats, ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof and a 360-degree camera with front and rear parking sensors. Boot space is fairly limited with 240l available behind the rear seats, but it expands to 896l with the seats folded flat. Related: Jaecoo's Plug-in Hybrid J7 SHS Confirmed for June Launch in SA In terms of performance, the plug-in hybrid combines the 105kW and 215N.m of torque from the ICE with a 150kW and 310N.m electric motor. Together, the system delivers a combined total of 255kW of power and 525N.m of torque. All of this power is sent to the front wheels through the aforementioned dedicated single-speed DHT. The J7 SHS can accelerate from 0 – 40km/h in 2.98 seconds, reach 60km/h in 4.46 seconds, and cross 100km/h in 8.55 seconds. When plugged into a 40kW DC charger, the battery can be topped up from 30 – 80% in just 20 minutes. Jaecoo J7 SHS pricing Jaecoo J7 SHS – R589 900 All models sold will include a seven-year/200 000km warranty and a seven-year/100 000km service plan alongside a 10-year unlimited range battery warranty which applies to the first owner only. Click here and browse thousands of new and used vehicles here with CARmag! The post Jaecoo J7 SHS Officially Arrives in South Africa – Pricing and Spec appeared first on CAR Magazine. Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel. Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.
TimesLIVE
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
Fuel-sipping Jaecoo J7 plug-in hybrid arrives in Mzansi
The SHS has arrived in SA as the new petrol-electric version of the Jaecoo J7 midsize SUV, and one of the most affordable plug-in hybrids in its segment. The first of several new electrified models from the Chinese brand, the new flagship SHS grows the J7 line-up to four variants after Jaecoo, sister brand of Chery, made its SA debut in April 2024. The J7 has been available as a 1.6 petrol turbo model with front wheel drive and outputs of 145kW and 290Nm. SHS is short for Super Hybrid System and combines a turbocharged 1.5 l petrol engine and an electric motor. The total outputs of 255kW and 525Nm are sent to the road via all-wheel drive. A dedicated hybrid transmission drives the wheels with different modes and is able to control the balance between energy consumption and performance. Jaecoo claims the vehicle sips only 5 l /100km and has 90km of pure electric drive range, and has a 1,200km combined driving range on a single tank with a fully charged battery. In my week-long test drive on a mix of urban and open roads, the J7 SHS averaged 5.2 l /100km, which was very close to the factory claim and an impressively low figure for a car of this size and power. The 18.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery can be charged from 30% to 80% in only 20 minutes using a DC fast charger. It takes about two-and-a-half hours to charge at an AC public charger, or overnight on a regular 240V home socket. When fully charged the battery initially drained quickly, but once it got down to about 30% the car's energy recuperation system kept it at around that level, meaning we didn't have to plug it in to charge it.
IOL News
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- IOL News
Omoda and Jaecoo launch new plug-in hybrids with impressive range and luxury
The Omoda C9 PHEV is positioned as their flagship luxury SUV. Image: Supplied Buckle up, Mzansi. The local automotive scene just got a significant jolt of electrified energy as the Omoda and Jaecoo brands officially unleash their latest plug-in hybrid contenders onto South African roads. Leading the charge are two distinct SUVs: the premium-focused Omoda C9 PHEV and the more accessible Jaecoo J7 SHS (Super Hybrid System), signalling a bold commitment to New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in our market. Pivotal moment For Omoda, the arrival of the C9 PHEV marks a pivotal moment. Positioned as their flagship luxury SUV, this plug-in hybrid aims to blend the serene efficiency of electric driving with the reassurance of petrol power and a hefty dose of premium appeal. Hans Greyling, General Manager for Omoda and Jaecoo South Africa, says: "The C9 PHEV represents a fresh chapter for efficient luxury motoring locally. It's crafted for drivers ready to embrace electric mobility but who equally demand performance, elegance, and safety. Think of it as having the best of both worlds – electric silence for the daily grind, petrol readiness for the open road." Efficiency Under the sculpted bonnet lies a high-efficiency electric motor working alongside a petrol engine and, together, they muster a substantial 440 kW and 915 Nm of torque. Yet, the real magic lies in its efficiency. Drivers can tap into up to 150 kilometres of pure electric driving – ample for most daily commutes – before the petrol engine takes over. This dual approach yields a claimed combined range exceeding 1,100 kilometres, while official combined fuel consumption dips as low as 1.4l/100 km. Charging practicality is key. Owners can replenish the sizable 34.5kWh battery pack in roughly 5.5 hours using a home Wall Box. For quicker top-ups, the C9 PHEV supports 70 kW DC fast charging, capable of boosting the battery from 30% to 80% in approximately 25 minutes at compatible public stations. "Keeping drivers moving with minimal downtime is crucial," says Lindokuhle Sibanyoni, Product Manager for Omoda and Jaecoo. The Omoda C9 PHEV supports 70kW DC fast charging, capable of boosting the battery from 30% to 80% in approximately 25 minutes. Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Exterior Exclusively offered in the top-tier Explore trim, the C9 PHEV makes a visual statement. Its exterior features a diamond-shaped grille, sleek LED lighting front and rear (including daytime running lights), and standard 20-inch alloy wheels. Sporty red brake callipers hint at the performance within, while a panoramic sunroof and second-row privacy glass enhance the upscale feel. Colour options include Cosmic Black, Meteorite Grey, Moonlight White, and Quantum Grey, with a distinctive two-tone black roof available on Moonlight White and Tech Grey models. Performance Talking performance, the C9 PHEV does not disappoint, and a brief stint behind the wheel on the road to the Gerotek Testing Centre produced brisk acceleration with instant throttle response – the hallmark of electric power. Significantly, the ride is almost eerily quiet and supremely comfortable as the suspension soaks up the many ripples on our roads. At Gerotek there was an opportunity to do what is generally known as the 'moose test' – or, more pertinent for us, a pothole dodger – that involves a rapid swerve around an object from 60km/h and back into your original lane. For a car topping the 2-ton mark the agility and lack of histrionics were impressive. Interior Step inside, and the C9 PHEV envelops occupants in a cabin focused on contemporary luxury and advanced tech. The ambiance is set by Black/Light Brown Premium Nappa leather-trimmed seats, with the driver enjoying six-way electric adjustment and the front passenger four-way. Both front seats offer heating and ventilation, complemented by a heated Nappa leather steering wheel. Rear passengers aren't forgotten, benefiting from an electrically adjustable backrest and seat heating. Dual-zone climate control, rear air-conditioning controls and heated/cooled armrest storage add further comfort layers. Acoustic laminated glass significantly reduces wind noise, fostering a tranquil cabin environment. Technology takes centre stage with dual 12,3-inch digital displays – one for the driver's cluster, the other controlling infotainment and vehicle settings. An intuitive Intelligent Voice Command system (activated by "Hello, Omoda") allows hands-free operation. Entertainment is delivered crisply via a 12-speaker Sony sound system, while connectivity is covered by Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 50W wireless charging pad. Practicality isn't sacrificed, with a power-operated tailgate revealing 660 litres of boot space, expandable to 1 783 litres with the rear seats folded. The cabin is focused on contemporary luxury and advanced tech. Image: Supplied Safety Safety is paramount, with the C9 PHEV boasting an extensive suite of driver-assist systems. This includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) with intervention, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Brake (RCTA/RCTB), Lane Departure Warning and Prevention (LDW/LDP), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Integrated Cruise Assist (ICA), and Traffic Congestion Assist (TCA). Further reassurance comes from front and rear parking sensors, a 540-degree surround-view camera, and a comprehensive array of airbags. Pricing Priced at R999,000, the Omoda C9 PHEV is backed by a strong ownership package: a seven-year/100,000 km service plan, a seven-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty, a 10-year/200,000 km warranty for electric drive components, a 10-year/1-million km engine warranty, and an industry-leading 10-year/unlimited km warranty for the main power battery pack for the first owner (reverting to 10 years/200,000km subsequently). Seven years of roadside assistance completes the offering. Jaecoo J7 SHS: Electrified Accessibility Alongside the premium C9 PHEV, Jaecoo is expanding its popular J7 range with the new J7 SHS plug-in hybrid derivative. Building on the J7's success since its 2024 launch, which drew favourable comparisons for its driving dynamics, the SHS focuses on making plug-in tech more accessible. Power The J7 SHS pairs a turbo-charged 1,5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering power smoothly via a 3-gear Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). While output figures are lower than its Omoda sibling (approximately 265kW), the focus here is on efficiency and daily electric usability. Its standout feature is an impressive 90 km all-electric range, sufficient for many urban commutes. The smaller 18,3kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery supports fast charging, replenishing from 30% to 80% in around 20 minutes using a 40 kW DC charger. Combined range reaches an estimated 1,200 km, with fuel consumption rated below 5.0l/100 km overall, potentially dropping to 1.5 l/100 km under optimal electric use. Visually, the J7 SHS retains the model's distinctive 'waterfall' grille and gains unique 19-inch alloy wheels, maintaining the signature lighting elements front and rear. Inside, it offers a comfortable leather interior, ambient lighting, a large central infotainment screen, heads-up display, wireless smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), and an eight-speaker Sony audio system. Safety is also comprehensively addressed with 15 driver-assist features standard, including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Rear Cross-Traffic Brake (RCTB), Front Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), and a Driver Monitoring System (DMS). The Jaecoo J7 SHS pairs a turbo-charged 1,5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering power via a 3-gear Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). Image: Supplied
