With the OMODA C5 already boasting five-star ratings across Euro NCAP, ANCAP, and ASEAN NCAP, the J7 SHS completes a trifecta of top-tier safety recognition.

Euro NCAP is no walk in the park. Adult occupant protection? 81%. Child occupant protection? 80%. Vulnerable road user safety and assist systems? Also hovering at the 80% mark. These are not near-misses, but the kind of consistency under pressure that speaks volumes.

Of course, scoring top marks here doesn’t just happen with a reinforced chassis and some clever airbags. The J7’s battery system is tuned for both endurance and safety, offering reliable performance across a temperature range of -35°C to 60°C.

There’s a reason JAECOO calls it “Super Hybrid.” Since the start of 2025, the J7 has embarked on a globe-trotting mission to prove its mettle. From the bustling expressways of Bangkok to the coastal drives of Brazil, it’s clocked endurance runs that most SUVs would balk at.

The Southeast Asian leg saw 1,427.5 km of combined driving across Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Fuel consumption was a wallet-friendly 3.5L/100km, even with the battery not fully charged. In the Philippines, it bettered itself with a jaw-dropping 1,488.8 km. And over in Brazil, it chalked up 1,453.9 km, cementing second place in the Global Super Hybrid Marathon.

These figures are a reflection of real-world usability, how far you can go, how little you’ll pay to get there, and how safe you’ll be in between.

In a statement, OMODA&JAECOO says this five-star result marks the beginning of its safety innovation strategy. As the J7 ushers in the era of SHS (Super Hybrid System), safety is now a core strand of the DNA embedded across all future models.

So while the J7 might technically be a car, in the wider context of where mobility is headed, it feels a lot more like a statement.

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Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are beneficial because they offer a combination of electric and petrol power, allowing for electric-only driving for shorter trips while still providing the range of a conventionally-powered engine for longer journeys.

The Jaecoo J7 is the latest offering from the Omoda-Jaecoo conglomerate, and though it may not be the most refined or sporty choice, you’ll be hard-pressed to find something else more efficient.

Subtle and clean

At first glance, the Jaecoo J7 captivates with its assertive stance and sleek lines. The front fascia is dominated by a prominent grille with vertical slats, flanked by LED headlights that give it a Range Rover-esque look.

Subtle design elements, such as retractable door handles and 19-inch alloy wheels, enhance its modern aesthetic.

Stepping inside, the Jaecoo J7 offers a cabin that prioritises both space and comfort. The interior exudes a minimalist yet technologically advanced ambience, featuring a dual-screen setup comprising a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 14.8-inch infotainment system.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, alongside a 50W wireless charging pad.

The seats, upholstered in synthetic leather with accent stitching, provide excellent lateral support and are equipped with heating and ventilation functions.

A panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of openness and comfort for all occupants.

Speaking of comfort, space is abundant in the J7, with generous legroom and headroom in the rear.

Even with a full posse in tow, you can easily squeeze all of your belongings in the car’s 500-litre boot.

Gentle is the way to do it

Under the bonnet, the Jaecoo J7 is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and paired with a single electric motor, the system delivers 342bhp and 525Nm. For the PHEV, the engine is mated to a 3-speed intelligent transmission (DHT).

The suspension system leans towards comfort, absorbing road imperfections effectively, and the steering is light, making urban manoeuvres effortless. However, when driven spiritedly on winding roads, the J7 unsurprisingly tends to wallow, its handling reflecting its SUV nature of prioritising comfort over sporty dynamics. 

To make life easier for the driver, the J7 features a host of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a 360-degree high-definition panoramic camera system.

Where the J7 outclasses most other cars is in fuel efficiency. With an 18.3kWh battery providing additional support to the engine, it offers exceptional fuel economy figures, making it a practical choice for those mindful of both their carbon footprint and fuel expenses.

Heck, you can even run up to 90km with electrical energy alone. That’s impressive.

Our test drive garnered an impressive 17.5km/litre, which meant the fuel tank could theoretically achieve more than 1000km of range. Driving to Thailand in one tank then is nothing but child’s play.

The sensible choice

If you are looking for something practical and fuel-efficient, the Jaecoo J7 stands as a compelling option in the SUV market.

It presents a well-rounded package, offering a harmonious mix of practicality, comfort, and technology, catering to a broad spectrum of drivers. For the sensible sort, you can’t go wrong with this.

Technical Specifications

Jaecoo J7

Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder in-line, Turbocharged
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Power: 255 kW (342 bhp)
Torque: 525 Nm
Gearbox: 3-speed (A) DHT
0-100km/h: 8.5 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 180 km/h
Fuel Capacity: 60 litres
Combined Drive Range: >1200 km (WLTP)
Fuel Consumption: 0.7 litres / 100km (claimed)
Power Consumption: 18.7 kWh / 100 km (WLTP)
Price: S$227,888 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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The rapid rise of Chinese automakers has been unsettling legacy car brands for a while now, but if there is one vehicle that should really be making product planners in the US, Germany, Japan, and Korea sit up in alarm, it is the Jaecoo J6.

The sheer speed at which Chery Automobile Co. Ltd. has brought this SUV to market is staggering. The Jaecoo brand was only announced at the Shanghai Auto Show in April 2023, alongside the concept version of this very model.

Yet, in just ten months, the production-ready Jaecoo J6 (also known as the Chery iCar 03) was already rolling into showrooms. That is an almost unheard-of turnaround in the industry.  

Let’s find out what the fuss is all about.

This looks fantastic

At a glance, the Jaecoo J6 is compact, muscular, and unmistakably rugged. The boxy silhouette is reminiscent of a Suzuki Jimny, being about the same length as a Toyota RAV4.

Its squared-off wheel arches and wheels have been pushed further to the corners, creating a taut and well-proportioned stance that exudes a “urban adventurer” appeal.

If Land Rover’s designers are not already paying attention, they should be.

It gets better on the inside 

Chinese automakers have been rapidly improving their interior designs, and the J6 fares well with nice upholstery, metallic accents, and wood-like inserts.

The airy greenhouse effect from the large windows makes the cabin feel even more spacious, and while the J6 is not a massive SUV, it certainly does not feel cramped.  

There are no glaring cost-cutting measures, no cheap plastics that feel like they might crack in a year, and no ill-fitting panels that betray its price point. In fact, its interior refinement would not feel out of place in vehicles costing twice as much.   

The J6’s 15.6-inch dashboard-mounted touchscreen is another highlight, although its resolution is not quite as sharp as some competitors.

Drive modes can be accessed via a central knob, and cubby spaces are abundant for all of your loose items.

Big on practicality

Unlike other EVs, the J6 does not have a front trunk (frunk), but it does feature a clever storage solution at the rear.

Instead of a spare tyre, there is a rugged backpack-like compartment mounted on the tailgate, perfect for storing dirty or wet gear.

Inside, the cargo floor is slightly high, but the second-row seats fold down flat to create a long cargo bay or sleeping space for two.

Keep the seats up, and you still have 450 litres of boot space to play around with.

Performance That Surprises  

For a car weighing almost 1.9 tonnes, the Jaecoo J6 moves with an unexpected liveliness. Its all-wheel-drive system is powered by a 275bhp electric motor, allowing it to rock the century sprint in just 6.5 seconds.

Handling-wise, it is equally surprising. One might expect a budget-friendly SUV to wallow through corners with the enthusiasm of a shopping trolley, but the J6 is surprisingly well-balanced. 

The traction control does kick in quite enthusiastically if you wring it too hard, but disable it and the J6 delivers fun in spades.

The low centre of gravity and smart weight distribution inherent to EV architecture also keeps it weighted on rough terrain, giving you added confidence to push harder.

Fun, redefined  

One of the biggest surprises about the Jaecoo J6 is how well-rounded it is. It is not just a cheap, high-spec alternative to Western SUVs, but genuinely delivers on multiple fronts.

It is attractively designed, packed with features, practical enough for daily life, and, crucially, drives far better than one might expect for its price. 

If this is what China’s car industry can produce in just ten months, the global SUV market is in for a serious shake-up.

Technical Specifications

Jaecoo J6

Powertrain: Dual Electric Motors, All-Wheel Drive
Power: 205 kW (275 bhp)
Torque: 385 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 6.5 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 150 km/h
Battery Capacity: 69.77 kWh
Drive Range: 342 km
Energy Consumption: 4.2 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$192,888 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Omoda Jaecoo Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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Now serving as Vice President and General Manager of Design at Chery Automobile Co. Ltd, he’s at the helm of a brand that’s rapidly evolving from a regional contender to a global innovator.

Our conversation with Mr Eum delved into his career, Chery’s remarkable growth, and the company’s plans for electrifying the roads of Singapore and beyond.

Chery’s Meteoric Rise

Founded in 1997, Chery started as a state-owned venture in Wuhu, Anhui Province. With a vision to make cars for the Chinese middle class, it quickly gained traction through innovative models and a focus on affordability without compromising quality. Chery’s name, derived from the Chinese phrase “奇瑞” (meaning auspicious and prosperous), proved prophetic.

One of Chery’s pivotal moments was its commitment to exports. In 2001, it became the first Chinese carmaker to export vehicles, eventually reaching over 80 countries and regions. Chery has since exported more than 2.8 million vehicles globally, making it China’s largest passenger vehicle exporter for 20 consecutive years.

By 2023, Chery was producing over 1.5 million vehicles annually, with a significant portion being electric.

Its focus on technological advancement has earned it accolades, such as its inclusion in the Global Top 500 Most Valuable Brands and recognition for its ACTECO engines, which have won numerous awards for efficiency and reliability.

Shaping Automotive Design For The Future

Steve Eum’s journey in automotive design began with a fascination for problem-solving. He honed his craft at major international brands like General Motors, Hyundai, and Kia, gaining a reputation for combining creativity with technical rigour.

“A car is more than just transportation,” Eum explained. “It’s a reflection of our values, aspirations, and even our culture.”

When Eum joined Chery, the brand was already on the rise but lacked a clear global design identity. “Our first task was to create a cohesive design language that was unmistakably Chery,” he shared.

Under Eum’s leadership, Chery introduced its now-iconic design philosophy, “Life in Motion,” a principle inspired by the fluidity of nature and human movement. This ethos has been evident in recent models like the Tiggo 8 Pro.

A Vision For The Future

Steve Eum highlighted Chery’s strategic approach to EVs. “We’re not just making electric cars for the sake of it. Every model is designed to solve real-world challenges,” he explained. 

Chery is also pushing boundaries in autonomous driving. Through partnerships with tech giants like Huawei, it has developed Level 2 and Level 3 autonomous systems, which are being tested in various markets, including Asia and Europe. “Our goal is to democratize technology, making features like autonomous parking and adaptive cruise control accessible to more people,” said Eum.

For a nation like Singapore, where environmental consciousness and urban mobility are top priorities, Chery’s vision aligns perfectly. The government’s push for electrification, including plans to phase out internal combustion engines by 2040, creates fertile ground for Chery’s EV offerings.

Singapore’s consumers have already shown an appetite for Chery’s vehicles, with models like the Omoda E5 and Jaecoo J7.

Chery and Singapore

Steve Eum’s career and Chery’s evolution are a study in synergy. Both are proof that ambition, paired with a willingness to innovate, can lead to extraordinary results.

As our conversation wrapped up, Eum left us with a thought that summed up both his philosophy and Chery’s mission: “Great design isn’t about standing out; it’s about fitting in – into people’s lives, their dreams, their world.”

With leaders like Steve Eum at the wheel, that future looks incredibly promising.

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Not bad for two fresh faces in the automotive world, both of which are backed by Chery. From Europe to Southeast Asia, Omoda & Jaecoo have been busy proving that they’re here to stay.

Omoda & Jaecoo’s expansion strategy has its share of calculated risk and bold moves. Starting in Spain, the brands have launched in Italy, Poland, and most recently, Hungary. 

Each entry into a new market has been accompanied by an enthusiastic reception, with events like the recent launch of Omoda 5 in Hungary drawing in political figures, celebrities, and industry insiders.

The Jaecoo 7, introduced in Spain as a plug-in hybrid, showcased its advanced tech and eco-friendly capabilities, earning high praise. Meanwhile, test drives in Italy and Poland have given prospective buyers a taste of what’s to come.

Omoda & Jaecoo are also starting to find a devoted following in Southeast Asia. The recent arrival of the Omoda E5 and Jaecoo 6 in Thailand has sparked interest, and in the Philippines, the first units of Omoda 5 have rolled into port.

Certain individuals have also started building communities, like the J-Club in Malaysia, where like-minded car enthusiasts gather together to share their passion. And with the milestone of Omoda & Jaecoo’s 15,000,000th vehicle rolling off the production line in Malaysia soon, they’re showing the world that they’re not slowing down anytime soon.

Omoda has already made its way into Singapore, and it will be soon joined by its sister company Jaecoo.

Official sources have mentioned that the Jaecoo 6 and 7 will be arriving first, followed by the Jaecoo 8 and then Jaecoo 5. These vehicles will join the existing lineup of cars, which for now only includes the Omoda E5.

With an eye on the future, the Omoda 5 and Jaecoo 7 are now contenders for the 2025 World Car of the Year. The Omoda 5 already boasts five-star safety ratings from both European and Australian NCAP standards.

Similarly, the Jaecoo 7 is garnering praise for its versatility, strength, and visual appeal, earning nominations as a top family car in countries like Mexico and Belgium.

At the recent Omoda & Jaecoo International User Summit, we also saw the Jaecoo J7 put through an endurance test, with a 1,300 km international marathon challenge to test its ultra-long range. Safe to say, all of them completed the journey with ease.

As they continue their rapid global expansion, Omoda & Jaecoo’s open and innovative spirit is opening new doors. With each new market they enter, they’re taking their mission of “more than cars” to heart, creating vehicles that resonate with today’s drivers in ways that go beyond the ordinary.

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We wrung the cars over a variety of obstacles,  including an asphalt gymkhana course and some challenging off-road terrain.

The event, part of the OMODA & JAECOO International User Summit, showcased everything from pure electric to hybrid power.

The cars we tried will also eventually make their way into the Singapore market, giving us first-hand insights into what can we expect from these two brands.

Held at the WuHu Longshan Testing Ground, the on-road test drives mainly focused on the Jaecoo J5 and J8.

Even though we didn’t get to try out the electric variant of the J5, the plug-in hybrid version performed amicably. The Chery staff have also assured us that what we saw in the hybrid version (at least for the interior) was going to be identical to the EV variant.

The Jaecoo J5 will most likely make its debut in Q3 of 2025. We did a deeper dive into the car in another article, check it out here.

To showcase the toughness of their range of models, Chery also allowed us to try out the cars on a mixed dirt course.

After we were done, the Jaecoo J6, J7 and J8 were caked in mud, but each car offered an enjoyable and different experience on the course.

A special shoutout goes to the J6, whose dual electric motors meant that you could effortlessly hoon it around the loose mud, sideways even. This model is essentially an electric answer to the Suzuki Jimny, and its retro-futuristic boxy looks make it stand out amongst its siblings.

This model would see Singapore shores in Q4 of 2024 alongside the J7. The Jaecoo J8 will follow suit shortly after, arriving in Q2 of 2025.

The Jaecoo J7 and J8 follow more traditional SUV styling, and both feature a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) platform that promises better efficiency.

The main difference between the two is size; the J7 is a 5-seater, while the J8 can be had in either a 7 or 6-seater with captain chairs.

Regardless of which model we drove, all featured modern tech in the cabin, nice materials, and refined powertrains.

Safe to say, Omoda and Jaecoo would have quite the lineup once these vehicles make their way into the showroom.

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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This B-segment SUV crossover is a charming entry-level model that comes with loads of tech, style and thoughtful practicality.

The Jaecoo J5 bears a striking resemblance to its bigger siblings, particularly the J7, with its boxy SUV silhouette and eye-catching light signatures.

The front grille appears like a waterfall, cascading with vertical slats and flanked by modern rectangular LED headlights.

Move to the rear, and the sleek LED taillights echo the J7’s aesthetics, though without the trendy LED light bar.

Measuring 4,380 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,650 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,620 mm, the J5 finds its footing alongside notable competitors like the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross.

The inside is a well-appointed interior that showcases Jaecoo’s tech and luxury.

The highlight is a 13.2-inch portrait-oriented central infotainment screen that feeds occupants with all of the car’s vital information. Behind the leather-wrapped two-spoke steering wheel is a sleek digital instrument cluster that’s stylish and informative.

The two-tone faux leather upholstery, powered front seats, and a full panoramic sunroof add that touch of luxury that makes you feel special. All nice additions for a vehicle in this segment.

The J5’s rear cabin space is surprisingly generous, comfortably accommodating three adults. Dedicated USB charging ports and A/C vents add to overall comfort.

Out back, the Jaecoo J5 boasts 480 litres of boot space, expandable to 1,180 litres. And yes, it comes with a powered tailgate, plus enough room for a full-size spare wheel; a rarity these days!

We got to play around with the Jaecoo J5 on track in Wu Hu, China, tossing it around some obstacles. The car performed amicably, with the peppy 1.6-litre 4-cylinder TGDi engine churning out a respectable 194hp and 290Nm of torque.

The car handled its bulk well in the corners, with manageable body roll and good steering feel. Safety features are aplenty on board, giving drivers more confidence in tricky or emergency situations.

Although, the one we wrung around was a 1.6-litre all-wheel drive variant. We’re told that Singapore will get two different variants – a 1.5-litre front-wheel drive plug-in hybrid, and an all-electric variant.

We did not test either of these variants on this trip, but from what we experienced in the test cars, it’s safe to say that the Jaecoo J5 will be a compelling SUV option for prospective buyers when it arrives on our shores later in 2025.

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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After a spell of anticipation heightened by teasers, Chery Automobile has officially marked its return to Singapore. This re-entry was spearheaded under the familiar guidance of Vertex Automobile.

The curtains were lifted on the evening of Tuesday, 23 May 2024, at the new Omoda-Jaecoo showroom at 3 Ubi Road 4. This event, attended by media members and select customers, also celebrated the launch of Chery’s first new model in Singapore after ten years – the all-electric Omoda E5.

The newly inaugurated facility is Chery’s ambitious drive for a substantial global presence through its two promising brands: Omoda and Jaecoo.

Serena Wong, General Manager of Vertex Automobile Singapore, highlighted that this showroom is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia dedicated to these brands, crafted to reflect the Omoda-Jaecoo brand ethos.

The design of the showroom is a nod to the future, with its digital walls and expansive open spaces, designed to resonate with the youthful spirit both brands embody.

While Jaecoo is gearing up to attract adventurers with rugged SUVs suitable for off-roading, Omoda will likely charm the urbanites with its sleek, city-ready vehicles.

Focusing on the Omoda E5, this vehicle exudes a design philosophy dubbed ‘Art in Motion’, which Chery claims is visually manifested through its sleek lines and innovative lighting.

Its interior sports a 24.6-inch curved screen that dominates the dashboard, offering twin 10.25-inch displays for both the infotainment system and driver’s instruments.

The Omoda E5 is equipped with an electric motor that delivers 201bhp and 340Nm of torque, allowing it to go from 0 to 100km/h in just 7.6 seconds. It’s supported by a 61kWh battery that promises up to 430km of range on a single charge, making it both efficient and practical.

Stay tuned for the reveal of more models, including the anticipated Jaecoo J7. With doors now open to the public, the Omoda-Jaecoo showroom at 3 Ubi Road 4 is ready to welcome anyone curious to explore what Chery has to offer.

The starting price for the Omoda E5 stands at $179,888, inclusive of COE (at the time of writing).

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Vertex Automobile has recently forged a new partnership with Chery International. The signing event, which happened on 30th November 2023, solidified Chery’s comeback into Singapore.

With this partnership, Vertex now has exclusive distribution rights for Chery’s Omoda and Jaecoo electric vehicles in Singapore.

The event was graced by a roster of esteemed guests, including Mr Yin Tong Yue, Chairman of Chery Group, Mr Zhang Gui Bing, General Manager of Chery International and Mr Shan Xiang Qian, Vice Governor of Ann Hui.

Through the partnership, Vertex aims to expedite Singapore’s shift towards a greener, more sustainable future by spearheading the integration of more electric vehicles into the nation’s car population.

The Omoda 5 EV has been teased for quite some time, and it is finally arriving on our shores in Q1 of 2024. The Jaecoo brand is set to follow suit at a later date.

Vertex will soon be opening their new showroom too, so prospective customers can head down and view the new electric range.

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