JAECOO is set to add a new vehicle to its lineup, which currently comprises only one model: the JAECOO J7, which has recently introduced an impressive 1,100 km range PHEV variant. The JAECOO brand has gained significant popularity based on the sheer numbers visible on the roads and by local registrations of this sleekly styled urban off-road contender, which has helped JAECOO climb to an impressive 26th position on the list of 54 automotive makes reporting new-vehicle sales figures to the industry representative body Naamsa.
Now the stable has decided to add a smaller SUV offering to consumers, positioned as an entry point into the premium marque. Meet the all-new J5, which made its global debut at the 2025 Shanghai International Auto Show, and this smaller crossover has much to offer. Starting with the exterior design, JAECOO claims the car has a bold, assertive design that combines modern styling cues with rugged touches. The front features a seamless grille design with slim lights and daytime running lights, giving it a distinct look rather than a copy-and-paste appearance. The rear showcases a now-popular light bar design that houses the JAECOO branding within the bar.
The side profile presents a tall stance and prominent wheel arches, while the J5 measures 4,380 mm in length. JAECOO has also installed underbody protection to shield it from the harshest gravel roads in the rare event of going off-road. Another commendable mention is that the J5 is said to provide good towing capability to meet the needs of drivers who demand versatility.
Let’s move to the interior, where you’ll find amenities such as a 13.2-inch touchscreen with integrated entertainment applications and smart navigation. The J5 is available with a 1.45 m² panoramic sunroof, the largest in its class. Other interior features include wireless charging, voice command functionality, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, ambient lighting, and ventilated seating.
The larger J7 SHS recently received a NCAAP safety rating of 5 stars, and the J5 is also expected to be just as safe, equipped with features like collision avoidance technology, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot detection, to name a few of the safety features.
The power plant has been confirmed as a 1.5-liter petrol engine producing 115 kW and 230 N·m of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) driving the front wheels. You can toggle between Normal, Eco, and Sport driving mode options, and you’ll be pleased to know that a plug-in hybrid PHEV and battery-electric vehicle BEV J5 will be joining the model variants soon.
The JAECOO J5 will launch in South Africa in the second quarter of 2025. Further details, including local specifications and pricing, will be confirmed closer to the launch date.