First Drive

The 2024 Jaecoo J7: A Bold New SUV with Off-Road Flair

The Jaecoo J7 bursts onto the scene as a mid-size SUV with a unique blend of rugged good looks and surprising comfort.

  • by: Samkeliso Maseko
  • July 1 2024
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2024 Jaecoo J7 Specs

  • Base Price

    $28,995 USD (SZL 344,935)

  • PowerTrain

    1.6-liter turbocharged I4 engine | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission | All-wheel drive

  • Horsepower | Kilowatts

    145 kW (194 hp)

  • Torque

    290 Nm (214 lb-ft)

  • Seating Capacity

    5

  • Curb Weight

    3,850 pounds (1,746 kg)

  • Cargo Volume

    14.6 cu ft (412 L)

  • Top Speed

    121 mph (195 kph)

  • Fuel Economy

    28 mpg combined (11.2 km/L)

  • Quick Take

    Impressive off-road capability with a comfortable ride.

  • Design Score

    8/10

  • Handling Score

    6/10

Verdict - Is J7 A Good Car?

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What AutoTrends Thinks

A Stylish All-Rounder: The Jaecoo J7 GTS With Reservations

The 2024 Jaecoo J7 GTS is a compelling contender in the crowded mid-size SUV segment. It boasts a blend of impressive features that cater to a variety of needs. However, it's not without its shortcomings, and potential buyers should carefully consider these before making a decision.

Strengths to Consider

The J7 GTS shines in terms of comfort and capability. The well-tuned suspension delivers a smooth ride on paved roads, while the available all-wheel-drive system with various drive modes (Eco, Sport, Sand, Mud, Snow) equips it to handle even challenging off-road terrain. This makes the J7 GTS a versatile choice for those who enjoy both city driving and weekend adventures.

Furthermore, the J7 GTS boasts a stylish and modern design that's sure to turn heads. The exterior features a bold and muscular stance, while the interior offers a premium feel with high-quality materials and a driver-centric layout. This combination of comfort, capability, and design makes the J7 GTS a strong option for those seeking a well-rounded SUV that stands out from the crowd.

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How Does It Hold Itself Against The Competition

The J7 GTS in the Arena: Standing Out and Falling Short Among Rivals

The mid-size SUV segment is a battleground for established players like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. So, how does the newcomer, the Jaecoo J7 GTS, fare against these formidable competitors?

The J7 GTS certainly brings its own strengths to the table. While both the RAV4 and CR-V offer excellent practicality with spacious interiors and ample cargo room, the J7 GTS injects a dose of rugged style. Its bold design and available all-wheel-drive system with various drive modes make it a more compelling choice for those who crave adventure and plan on venturing off the beaten path. The RAV4 TRD Off-Road and CR-V AWD models can compete off-road, but the J7 GTS's design language might better suit those who want their SUV to visually express their adventurous spirit.?

However, the J7 GTS also has areas for improvement when compared to its rivals. Fuel efficiency is a key factor for many SUV buyers, and here the J7 GTS falls a bit short. The sole engine option, a 1.6-liter turbocharged unit, might deliver decent performance but is likely less fuel-efficient than the hybrid options available on both the RAV4 and CR-V. While the J7 GTS might offer a more exciting driving experience, fuel costs become a consideration, especially for long journeys or everyday commutes.?

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Running Cost - What are The running cost of the j7?

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How Is Like Living With It?

Living with the Jaecoo J7 GTS: Balancing Fuel Costs with Potential Savings

The running costs of the 2024 Jaecoo J7 GTS are a mixed bag. Let's delve into the factors that will impact your wallet over ownership.

Fuel Efficiency: A Respectable Compromise

The J7 GTS delivers a combined fuel economy of 28 mpg (11.2 kilometers per liter). This places it squarely in the middle of the mid-size SUV segment. While not the most fuel-efficient option, it's sufficient for most daily commutes and errands. Drivers who prioritize fuel economy might be drawn to competitors like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or Honda CR-V Hybrid, which offer significantly better mileage. However, for those who value performance and a more engaging driving experience, the J7 GTS's fuel economy might be a fair trade-off.

The caveat here is driving behavior. The J7 GTS's turbocharged engine might tempt spirited acceleration, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency. Sticking to moderate acceleration and highway speeds will help you achieve the estimated combined fuel economy figure. Additionally, the J7 GTS might not be the most ideal choice for long road trips, especially if fuel efficiency is a top priority.

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Maintanace Cost

Uncertainty with a Hint of Optimism Since the J7 GTS is a new model, predicting long-term maintenance costs is inherently difficult. There isn't enough historical data to determine how expensive repairs and parts replacements might be. However, Jaecoo has a reputation for offering competitive servicing packages, which can help mitigate maintenance costs.

Here's a breakdown of factors that can influence your J7 GTS maintenance experience:

Warranty Coverage:

Jaecoo typically offers a comprehensive warranty on its new vehicles. A lengthy warranty can provide peace of mind, knowing that unexpected repairs during the initial ownership period will be covered by the manufacturer.

Parts Availability:

As a new model, parts availability for the J7 GTS might be limited initially. This could potentially lead to higher costs and longer wait times for repairs. However, as the J7 GTS becomes more established, parts availability should improve.

Dealership Service Costs:

The cost of servicing your J7 GTS will vary depending on the dealership and your location. It's always recommended to compare prices and service packages offered by different dealerships before committing to routine maintenance.

Overall, while the long-term maintenance costs of the J7 GTS remain uncertain, Jaecoo's reputation for competitive servicing and a potentially lengthy warranty can help offset some of the concerns. For budget-minded drivers, opting for the J7 GTS might be a calculated risk, especially if the dealership offers attractive servicing packages. However, if predictability and peace of mind are your priorities, established brands like Toyota and Honda might be a safer bet in terms of maintenance costs.

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interior and comfort - Is The J7 comfortable?

Interior

A Modern Cabin with Room for Improvement: Inside the J7 GTS

The interior of the 2024 Jaecoo J7 GTS offers a stylish and modern environment, but with a few caveats. Let's take a closer look at the J7 GTS's cabin experience.

Upscale Design with Potential Usability Hiccups

The J7 GTS's interior boasts a sleek and sophisticated design. The use of soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door panels creates a premium feel, while the clean layout and metallic accents add a touch of modern flair. Comfortable seating for five adults ensures a pleasant ride for everyday commutes or road trips. However, some reviewers found the seats to be a tad stiff on longer journeys. Upgrading to higher trims that might offer more supportive or heated/ventilated seats could address this comfort concern.

One potential point of contention is the infotainment system. While it features a large touchscreen and a range of features, user reviews suggest it can be unintuitive and require familiarization. A learning curve for the infotainment system can be frustrating, especially for those who want a system that's easy to navigate and use on the go. Testing the system during a test drive is crucial to see if it meets your expectations for usability.

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How Much Interior Space?

Spacious Interior and Flexible Cargo Options

Despite the potential drawbacks of the infotainment system, the J7 GTS shines in terms of interior space. It offers ample headroom and legroom for five adults, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone on board. Passengers won't feel cramped, even on longer journeys. This makes the J7 GTS a good choice for families or those who frequently transport passengers.

When it comes to cargo space, the J7 GTS offers versatility. With the rear seats upright, you get 14.6 cubic feet (412 liters) of cargo space, which is sufficient for groceries, luggage, or weekend adventure gear. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo capacity significantly. However, it's important to note that some reviewers mentioned a full-size spare tire being located underneath the cargo floor, which can eat into some of the potential cargo space.

Overall, the J7 GTS's interior presents a modern and stylish environment with ample space for passengers and cargo. However, the potentially stiff seats and a less-than-intuitive infotainment system can dampen the overall experience. Carefully considering these factors during a test drive will help you determine if the J7 GTS interior meets your needs and preferences.

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Practicality And Booot Space- Is The J7 Practical?

Practicality

A Practical Companion for Daily Adventures: Unveiling the J7 GTS's Functionality

The 2024 Jaecoo J7 GTS prioritizes practicality, making it a compelling choice for those who lead active lifestyles. Here's a breakdown of the J7 GTS's features that enhance its everyday usability.

Built for All Terrains and Towing Needs

The J7 GTS comes standard with all-wheel drive, a significant advantage for drivers who encounter challenging weather conditions or venture off-road. This all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction on snow, rain, or loose gravel, ensuring you maintain control and confidence behind the wheel.

Further enhancing its off-road capability are the J7 GTS's various drive modes. These allow you to tailor the vehicle's performance to specific terrains. For instance, an Eco mode optimizes fuel efficiency for highway driving, while a Sport mode sharpens handling for a more engaging on-road experience. When venturing off the beaten path, dedicated Sand, Mud, and Snow modes adjust the engine, transmission, and traction control to optimize performance for those specific conditions.

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Boot Space

Cargo Space Versatility: Accommodating Your Needs

As mentioned earlier, the J7 GTS offers 14.6 cubic feet (412 liters) of cargo space with the rear seats upright. This is sufficient for most everyday needs, such as grocery shopping, errands, or carrying sporting equipment. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats allow for further flexibility. Folding down just one side allows you to carry a passenger and long cargo like skis or a surfboard. Folding down both sections opens up a maximum cargo capacity that, while not the most spacious in its class, can still accommodate luggage for weekend trips or larger gear for outdoor adventures.

An additional factor to consider is the aforementioned full-size spare tire located under the cargo floor in some models. While this can eat into some potential cargo space, it eliminates the need to carry a space-saving spare tire in the cargo area, freeing up valuable interior room.

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Reliabilty And Safety - Is The J7 Reliable?

Reliabilty

Navigating the Unknown: Reliability and Safety in the New J7 GTS

The 2024 Jaecoo J7 GTS is a compelling option, but as a new model, there's inherent uncertainty regarding long-term reliability. Let's explore what we know about the J7 GTS's potential reliability and its safety features.

A Newcomer with Potential: The Reliability Question Mark

Since the J7 GTS is a new model, predicting its long-term reliability is inherently challenging. There isn't enough historical data on how the J7 GTS will perform over several years of ownership. However, Jaecoo, as a brand, has been making strides in improving the build quality of its vehicles in recent years. Positive reviews of other Jaecoo models suggest that the J7 GTS might be built to last.

Another factor to consider is the warranty offered by Jaecoo. A comprehensive warranty can provide peace of mind, especially for a new model. Checking the details of the J7 GTS's warranty will give you a better idea of what Jaecoo covers in terms of repairs and for how long.

While there might not be a definitive answer regarding the J7 GTS's long-term reliability, researching Jaecoo's reputation for build quality and carefully examining the warranty terms can help you make a more informed decision. Test driving the J7 GTS and comparing it to established brands with a proven track record of reliability can also be a wise move.

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Safety

Safety First: A Suite of Standard and Advanced Features

The 2024 Jaecoo J7 GTS prioritizes safety, offering a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features. These features are designed to prevent accidents and mitigate potential injuries in the event of a collision. Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection keeps a watchful eye on the road ahead and can automatically apply brakes to avoid a collision with vehicles or pedestrians in your path. Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keeping Assist helps you stay centered in your lane, especially on long highway journeys where driver fatigue can be a factor. Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert warns you of vehicles approaching your blind spot or crossing behind you while reversing, preventing accidental collisions during lane changes or backing out of parking spaces.

Higher trim levels of the J7 GTS offer even more advanced safety features. Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go maintains a safe distance from the car ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing safety. A 360-degree camera system provides a bird's-eye view of your surroundings when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces, minimizing the risk of bumping into objects or other vehicles.

Overall, the J7 GTS boasts a commendable array of safety features, both standard and optional, that can give you peace of mind on the road. While the long-term reliability of the J7 GTS remains to be seen, its safety features offer a strong foundation for a secure driving experience.

Trim Power
SE, XLT 139KW | 187HP
(1.6-liter)
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