First off, the B-segment Jaecoo J5 makes a stately impression. Viewed from the back and sideline, its Range Rover-esque aesthetics makes it instantly handsome and premium looking (think Evoque x Velar).
B-segment contender
With an interesting price of RM108,000 and a visually upmarket appeal, the J5 enters Malaysia’s crowded crossover SUV market to do battle with the Proton X50 and Honda HR-V.
Under the bonnet is a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 147 ps and 210 Nm, driving only the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
JAECOO Malaysia claims a 0 – 100 km/h time of 10.2 seconds and a 175 km/h top speed. Sounds promising on paper, along with that relatively competitive asking price.
Two minus points
On the road, the J5 reveals two less than tempting traits. The most obvious is the ‘busy’ ride. On most occasions, the suspension struggles to filter out low-frequency vibrations, making the J5 drive less comfortable than it should. This is somewhat surprising given its multi-link rear suspension, which gives it more predictable and accurate road holding.
Strangely, the 1.5-litre turbo feels like a naturally aspirated engine. Trundling along well in city’s congested traffic but once on open road, it feels quite underpowered when tasked to run higher speeds.
The CVT does its job smoothly enough, but sustained acceleration brings out a rather unpleasant groaning, hollow intake roar as the engine breathes harder… and louder.
All is not lost though – the J5’s cabin is classy for a low-priced model, never looking low rent. Interior is spacious, equipment levels are generous with even a powered boot door, panoramic fixed glass roof, and bilateral front powered-ventilated seats. There is even a karaoke system to keep kids and even adult passengers entertained on longer journeys.
Pet-friendly cabin
The J5 is also promoted as being ‘pet-friendly’, with some features to give pets as much pleasure on a journey as their human friends. The air conditioning filter, with its powerful filtration capabilities, effectively blocks pet hair, ensuring that the air inside the car remains fresh and clean at all times.
The materials are also kind to animals and won’t affect them while their durability means you won’t see scratches left by claws. For a healthier environment for both the pets and humans, there is an antibacterial health device that effectively inhibits the growth of bacteria.
Good value for money
At RM108,000 (possibly a bit less at the dealers), it certainly offers plenty – style, space and standard equipment – of crossover for the money. A little more suspension polish (closer to its elder brethen, the J7) and a stronger, quieter engine would transform the handsome J5 from an impressive package into a genuinely accomplished ‘junior aristocrat’.
Here’s eagerly awaiting the upcoming Jaecoo J5 EV to up the game!
