By Mabuyane Mabuza
The question of whether Chinese cars are here to stay has been asked and answered. They are here, and they are going nowhere. All we can do now is sit back and enjoy the competition, while hoping the economic side of things settles sooner rather than later.
I will leave the macroeconomics to the economists. My job is simple. I drive the cars and give feedback.
I am a full-on SUV fan, especially one loaded with all the bells and whistles. So when the team at Jaecoo sent me the J7 SHS for a week-long bonding session, I was not complaining.
Like several other Chinese brands steadily gaining ground in South Africa, Jaecoo has found a receptive audience. The J7 SHS is part of that new wave. Here are my thoughts after spending proper time with this plug-in hybrid.
The Look
The J7 SHS is a striking addition to the growing line-up of Chinese SUVs making waves globally and locally. It blends bold styling with modern design cues in a way that demands attention.
The exterior is confident, with sleek lines and a strong stance. The front grille is distinctive, and the sharp LED headlamps give it a solid yet refined presence. It has that balance of elegance and muscle that helps it stand out in a very crowded SUV space.
You notice it. And more importantly, other people do too.
The Interior
Step inside the J7 and you are welcomed by a cabin that feels properly considered. The Chinese manufacturers have come a long way in terms of quality and finish. Plush leather seats, soft-touch surfaces and tasteful wood and metallic accents give the interior a premium feel.
There is generous legroom and headroom, so passengers will not feel squeezed. The panoramic sunroof and ambient mood lighting add to the sense of space and comfort. It feels like a car designed for everyday living, not just for show.
Technology
The J7 SHS is well equipped on the technology front. A large infotainment screen sits at the centre, easy to navigate and compatible with smartphone integration. Accessing your favourite apps and media is straightforward.
Safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and a 360- degree camera system, all contributing to a reassuring driving experience. There are also voice commands and an intuitive interface that even someone like me, who is not overly tech-savvy, can quickly get used to.
It is modern without feeling overwhelming.
The Drive
The J7 SHS pairs a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an 18.3 kWh lithium iron battery. Living with it for a full week gave me insight into Jaecoo and Omoda’s plug-in hybrid strategy.
One thing is clear. The fuel station becomes a place you visit less often. For long- distance travel, that makes a real difference. The drive itself is smooth and composed, with the hybrid system working quietly in the background. It feels easy to live with, which is important for a family SUV.
Verdict
Many South Africans are looking to reduce vehicle finance costs without giving up comfort and features. Through the J7 range, Jaecoo seems to have struck that balance.
The mix of style, technology and affordability fits well with what local buyers are looking for. As more people consider cost-effective yet reliable alternatives, the J7 SHS stands out in the medium SUV segment.
It feels like part of a bigger shift in the market.
Pricing
The J7 SHS is priced at R690 000. As always, it pays to shop around and look out for specials that some of the Chinese brands offer from time to time.
