The Jaecoo J7 PHEV seems like the kind of car a suave secret agent would choose, and frankly, after getting acquainted with this plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, I wouldn’t be surprised if it suddenly developed wings and turned into a submarine.
The J7 stands out from typical SUVs with its strikingly modern appearance. Its sleek edges and dominant front grill convey an image of environmental consciousness, suggesting it’s making strides toward sustainability. This vehicle also exudes toughness through its sturdy build, indicating strong capabilities for rough terrains. Inside, the car maintains this upscale aesthetic with luxurious leather finishes and a colossal touchscreen display that competes with contemporary televisions in size and functionality.
The “PHEV” (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) aspect of the Jaecoo J7 is what makes it special. This car merges a gasoline engine with an electric motor and a battery pack, offering the advantages of both technologies.
Photo SHERYL GOLDSTUCK.
For my everyday travel needs, I can depend on electric propulsion, moving quietly and proudly right past gas stations. With a decent all-electric range, these brief excursions to stores or gatherings won’t require spending anything on fuel. When an adventurous outing beckons—say, a trip to the Magaliesberg over the weekend—the gasoline motor activates, offering ample reach and strength without causing any worry about running out of charge. This setup feels akin to enjoying both dessert and health at once; here, though, instead of sweets, we have renewable energy sources for car rides free from remorse.
Driving the J7 PHEV is a surprisingly engaging experience. The electric motor provides instant torque, meaning acceleration is brisk and smooth. The transition between electric and petrol power is seamless, so much so that I barely noticed it happening.
Photo SHERYL GOLDSTUCK.
The steering has an ideal weight, providing a nice equilibrium between agility and comfort, and the suspension effectively cushions the notorious bumps found on Gauteng’s roads. Although it isn’t designed as a sporty vehicle, it still navigates turns confidently and maintains stability when driving. The silent operation during electric mode ensures peaceful journeys, particularly for dawn commutes.
The Jaecoo J7 features an expansive infotainment display that serves as a gateway to the digital realm of wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity.
Apple CarPlay:
For those who have a sweet tooth for fruits, CarPlay maintains its characteristic user-friendliness. When linked, the well-known iPhone iOS interface appears on your vehicle’s display. Navigating with Apple Maps or Waze is straightforward, Siri stands by to execute each instruction (sometimes comically misunderstanding them instead), and accessing music and podcasts is simple. Overall, the integration runs seamlessly, and the distinct icons make navigation effortless without taking too much focus off the road.
Android Auto:
For those who love all things Android, Google presents a similarly compelling option. Plug in your Android gadget and you’ll find yourself welcomed by an intuitive interface that emphasizes easy navigation via Google Maps (let’s face it, this service usually sets the benchmark for such features). Google Assistant acts as your copilot, prepared to manage phone calls, texts, and music demands. The design is sleek and practical, with voice instructions typically being spot-on. Additionally, Android Auto often provides greater customization options when it comes to widgets and apps, which could appeal to certain users.
Photo SHERYL GOLDSTUCK.
The Verdict:
In the Jaecoo J7, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto function impressively well. The choice between them generally depends on individual preferences and which technology ecosystem you’re already committed to. Each provides top-notch capabilities for navigation, managing music, and communicating. The touch response on the J7’s screen is equally smooth for both systems, and their expansive displays make operating either feel quite comfortable.
Beyond the technology and the powertrain, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV offers a practical and spacious interior. There is ample room for passengers in the back, and the boot is generous for all the spy equipment, easily swallowing luggage for a weekend getaway or the weekly grocery haul. The build quality feels solid, and the materials used throughout the cabin give a sense of durability.
While the PHEV system is clever, maximising the electric range requires a bit of planning and consistent charging.
Nevertheless, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV presents an enticing proposition as a whole. It boasts a sleek appearance, a plush and feature-rich cabin, along with the efficiency advantages of a plug-in hybrid system. This vehicle strikes a balance between refinement and excitement, ideal for maneuvering through Johannesburg’s bustling streets yet prepared for ventures into the wilderness beyond.
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The pricing details for the Jaecoo J7 PHEV were unavailable when we wrote this review.
* Sheryl Goldstuck serves as the general manager at World Wide Worx and also works as an editor.
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