Chery’s sub-brand Jaecoo to launch J7 AWD in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: After making a strong comeback earlier this year, Chery is now set to expand its presence in Malaysia. The Chinese automaker recently launched its largest 4S showroom in the East Coast and previewed the Omoda E5, the first electric vehicle for the local market. And now, it announced the arrival of its sub-brand named Jaecoo.

The official Facebook page of Jaecoo Malaysia is already up and running, confirming the arrival of its model, the Jaecoo J7. According to a recent post, the first two units of the J7 AWD in the right-hand drive version have arrived in Malaysia for road testing and exclusive previews for potential dealers and investors in anticipation of showrooms opening.

Jaecoo is expected to launch the J7 next year. But before the big reveal, let's delve into what this upcoming Chinese model has in store for us.

• The Jaecoo J7 AWD is a unibody SUV based on Chery’s T1X architecture that also underpins the Omoda 5
• The SUV features a boxy exterior design and measures 4,500 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and 1,680 mm in height and carries a 2,672-mm long wheelbase
• These dimensions suggest that the upcoming Jaecoo J7 will fall in the C-segment SUV category and rival the likes of the Toyota Corolla Cross and Proton X70
• The automaker calls the Jaecoo J7 an “exceptional urban off-road SUV,” equipped with 200 mm of ground clearance, a water-wading depth of 600 mm, a 21-degree approach angle, and a 29-degree departure angle

• Powering the SUV is a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol mill that is good for making 197 PS of maximum power and 290 Nm of peak torque
• The power is sent to all four wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, enabling the SUV to hit the century sprint in 8 seconds 
• Equipment kit comprises LED headlights, Welcome Lights, a panoramic sunroof, a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 14.8-inch infotainment unit with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, an 8-speaker sound system, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Active Speed Limiting, Rear Collision Warning, and more

Are you excited about the launch of the Jaecoo J7 in Malaysia? Let us know in the comments.

Also read: Chery launches the WCWL Owners’ Club in Malaysia