The new Jaecoo J7 plug-in hybrid SUV has received a five-star ANCAP safety rating, marking a significant milestone for the Chery Group’s latest entrant into the mid-size SUV segment in Australia and New Zealand. The rating applies exclusively to the plug-in hybrid variants, with petrol models currently unrated.
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Safety Performance Highlights
The J7 SHS earned an 81% score for Adult Occupant Protection. In the frontal offset crash test, the front passenger compartment remained stable, offering good protection to most body regions. The driver’s chest and lower legs were rated as adequate, and a moderate compatibility penalty was applied due to risks to occupants in an oncoming vehicle.
In the full-width frontal test, driver protection was rated good, while the rear passenger neck and chest protection scored adequate. The side curtain airbag did not deploy correctly in the oblique pole test, resulting in penalties. Nonetheless, the J7 SHS scored 85% for Child Occupant Protection, with excellent results for the side impact test and overall safety for child dummies.
Vulnerable road user protection was rated at 80%, and Safety Assist systems received an 84% rating. While the cyclist dooring warning system fell short of scoring thresholds due to delayed alerts, the J7’s lane support systems, speed assistance, and direct driver monitoring met expectations.
Jaecoo J7 SHS: Key Details
The Jaecoo J7 SHS is offered in a single, range-topping Summit variant in Australia, priced at $47,990 drive-away. It is underpinned by the Chery Group’s T1X platform, and is not sold or serviced through traditional Chery dealerships, but through standalone Omoda and Jaecoo networks.
The J7 SHS is equipped with a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and an electric motor, delivering combined outputs of 255kW and 525Nm. It features an 18.3kWh battery capable of up to 90km of electric-only driving (WLTP) and consumes just 1.0L/100km in combined driving. The vehicle weighs 1794kg and uses a 1-speed dedicated hybrid transmission.
Dimensions:
- Length: 4500mm
- Width: 1865mm
- Height: 1680mm
- Wheelbase: 2700mm
- Boot Capacity: 340L (5 seats) / 1265L (2 seats)
Interior and Technology
Inside, the J7 SHS features a more minimalistic design than its petrol siblings, with a 14.8-inch portrait touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Both wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with a ventilated wireless charging pad.
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Comfort features include heated and ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof, synthetic leather upholstery, and dual-zone climate control. Safety systems include adaptive cruise control, AEB, blind-spot monitoring, driver monitoring, and a head-up display.
Running Costs and Warranty
The J7 SHS comes with:
- 8-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty
- 8 years capped-price servicing
- Up to 8 years roadside assistance
- Service interval: 12 months or 15,000km
- Average capped service cost: $421
CarExplore's Thoughts
With strong ANCAP results, extensive standard equipment, and competitive pricing, the Jaecoo J7 SHS PHEV is positioned as a compelling alternative in the mid-size SUV market. While some interior ergonomics and drive feel elements could be improved, the vehicle offers strong value and advanced safety for Australian drivers.
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