The Australian SUV market just got more interesting. Chinese automaker Chery’s premium sub-brand Jaecoo has arrived with the J8, a large SUV that promises luxury features at a fraction of the cost of established competitors. After spending time behind the wheel, we’ve discovered what this newcomer brings to families looking for space, comfort, and value.
What Makes the Jaecoo J8 Stand Out
Walking up to the Jaecoo J8, you’d be forgiven for thinking it costs twice its actual price. The design borrows cues from premium European SUVs, featuring retractable door handles, a distinctive waterfall grille, and sophisticated LED lighting that gives it genuine road presence. The floating roof design and sculpted panels create a more elegant silhouette than many competitors in this price bracket.
Inside, the cabin genuinely impresses. Real leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with massage functions, and dual 12.3-inch displays create an atmosphere that feels decidedly upmarket. The attention to detail extends to thoughtful touches like a fragrance system that diffuses scents through the cabin and phone call audio that projects only through headrest speakers for privacy.
Pricing and Variants That Make Sense
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Track 2WD Price | $49,990 drive-away |
| Ridge AWD Price | $54,990 drive-away |
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged petrol |
| Power/Torque | 195kW / 400Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch auto |
| Fuel Economy | 6.8L/100km (highway) |
| Seating | 5 seats only |
| Warranty | 8 years / unlimited km |
The pricing strategy is genuinely impressive. The range-topping Ridge AWD sits around $10,000 below comparable models from Toyota, Hyundai, and Mazda, yet comes loaded with features that would be expensive options on those vehicles.
Performance That Surprises
Don’t let the 2.0-litre engine fool you into thinking this is underpowered. The turbocharged unit delivers its punch smoothly, with enough grunt for confident highway merging and comfortable cruising. The transmission is relatively seamless, though some reviewers noted occasional hesitation in certain driving conditions.
The front-wheel-drive Track handles daily driving duties admirably, while the Ridge AWD adds genuine off-road capability with multiple terrain modes including Snow, Mud, Sand, and Off-Road settings. The adaptive suspension on the Ridge variant helps smooth out Australia’s challenging road surfaces.
Technology and Safety Features
Modern families expect their vehicles to be as smart as their smartphones, and the Jaecoo J8 delivers. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration comes standard, alongside a 12-speaker Sony sound system and satellite navigation. The panoramic sunroof adds to the airy cabin feel, while dual-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable.
Safety equipment is comprehensive, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. While ANCAP hasn’t tested the J8 yet, Chery’s recent models have achieved solid safety ratings, suggesting this SUV should perform well when assessed.
The Real-World Family Experience
Living with the Jaecoo J8 reveals both strengths and compromises. The premium cabin materials and comfortable seating make longer journeys pleasant, while the generous cargo space handles family gear easily. However, the lack of seven-seat capability may disappoint larger families who need that extra row.
The 8-year unlimited kilometer warranty provides confidence that’s hard to match from established brands, addressing one of the main concerns about choosing a newer nameplate. Service costs are capped at reasonable levels, with 15,000km intervals reducing maintenance frequency.
Competition and Market Position
In Australia’s competitive large SUV segment, the J8 positions itself uniquely. While it can’t match the proven reliability reputation of a Toyota Kluger or the brand recognition of a Hyundai Santa Fe, it offers more equipment for significantly less money. The Ridge AWD particularly stands out, delivering genuine off-road capability at a price point where most competitors offer only front-wheel drive.
Who Should Consider the J8
This SUV makes most sense for families who prioritize value and features over brand prestige. First-home buyers stretching their budget, young families wanting luxury features without luxury pricing, and practical buyers who research thoroughly rather than purchase on emotion will find much to appreciate.
The Jaecoo J8 represents exactly what many Australian families have been waiting for: a well-equipped, comfortable SUV that doesn’t require a massive loan. While it may lack the heritage of established brands, its combination of features, warranty, and pricing creates a compelling proposition that’s hard to ignore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Jaecoo J8 reliable?
A: While long-term reliability data isn’t available yet, the 8-year unlimited kilometer warranty provides strong protection, and Chery’s recent models have shown improved build quality.
Q: Why doesn’t it offer 7 seats?
A: Jaecoo focused on maximizing comfort and cargo space for 5 occupants rather than cramming in a third row that might compromise the passenger experience.
Q: How does it compare to established brands?
A: The J8 offers similar or better equipment levels at significantly lower prices, though established brands provide proven reliability and higher resale values.
GMC Yukon Denali 2025 Australia Review First Drive & Live Impressions
