First impressions: JAECOO J7 off-road superiority unleashed - it really is a do it all SUV!

KUALA LUMPUR: In an exciting display of robust capability, JAECOO Malaysia has showcased the unparalleled off-road prowess of their premier SUV model, the J7, at the Malaysia 4WD Training and Experience Centre (M4TREC) in Semenyih.

Attendees, including ourselves, experienced a thrilling demonstration as the J7 conquered a challenging circuit designed with six dynamic terrains, proving its mettle in a variety of rugged conditions.

Experiencing its off-road capabilities first-hand

The event was not just a showcase but a true test of endurance and capability. Emily Lek, Vice President of JAECOO Malaysia, highlighted that today's SUVs must meet increasingly demanding expectations, and the J7's display at M4TREC will prove exactly that, instilling a new level of confidence in the J7, especially those who wish to have an SUV that's tough as well as good looking.

Advanced technology for rugged terrain

The J7 is equipped with the All-Road Drive Intelligent System (ARDIS), featuring seven terrain modes that cater to various off-roading needs including sand, mud, snowfield, and generic off-road conditions. Notably, its water wading capability of 600 mm was put to the test and passed with flying colors, showcasing its readiness for even the most challenging environments. The event also highlighted the SUV's sophisticated 540-degree camera system, providing a 3D view on a 14.8-inch infotainment screen, proving indispensable for navigating the complex M4TREC obstacle course.

Power and control on unpredictable terrain

Under the hood, the J7 sports a 1.6TGDI engine that produces 194 HP and 290Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that ensures swift shifting. Its all-wheel drive (AWD) system, with rapid torque intervention, adapts in real-time to changing surface conditions, which was especially evident on the notably challenging parts of the M4TREC course including the side slope and frame twister segments.

So how did the J7 fare on the M4TREC obstacle course?

The J7 faced its first test on the Roller Ramp, which served to demonstrate the rapid torque distribution capabilities of its Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. With up to 0.1-second intervention times, the system efficiently got the J7 moving on the simulated slippery surface, managing the precise torque needed on each wheel, crucial for navigating slippery conditions effectively. Although the course was muddy due to heavy rains which made the tyres slippery than usual, the J7 managed to find traction to set it free up the hill.

Next was the Frame Twister, a demanding test that examined the vehicle's structural integrity and stiffness. Thanks to its construction featuring over 80% high-strength steel—surpassing that of many luxury brands—the J7 showed little to no flexing or noise, even as the doors continued to operate smoothly under extreme conditions. This demonstration underscored the J7’s durability and safety in unstable environments.

Conquering Angles and Water with Ease

The challenge continued at the Slide Slope, where the J7’s ability to maintain stability on tilted surfaces was put to the test. The SUV’s traction control and AWD system worked in tandem, quickly adjusting torque distribution and applying wheel-braking to prevent slippage, while stability controls managed low-speed oversteer or understeer. 

The Water Wading test was particularly striking. With a ground clearance of 200mm and equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, the J7 effortlessly navigated through some deep muddy water, demonstrating its capability to handle challenging wet terrains without compromising its performance or damaging crucial components.

Expertly Handling Steep Inclines and Rugged Terrain

During the Ridge Crossing, the J7's approach and departure angles—21 degrees and 29 degrees, respectively—allowed it to clear obstacles smoothly, ensuring no contact with the rear bumper or undercarriage. This ability is vital for off-road vehicles required to traverse steep inclines and rugged terrains.

Finally, the Deep Water Wading which saw muddy water come up all the way up the J7's front grille solidified the SUVs off-road credentials, confidently handling water crossings up to 600mm deep, ensuring reliable navigation through diverse terrain types.

First Impression - The J7 is a capable machine 

What stands out most about the JAECOO J7 is its ability to conquer rugged terrain without any underbody contact, despite a modest 200mm ground clearance. Emily Lek highlighted that the J7’s underbody was ingeniously designed with off-roading in mind, a clever innovation derived from JAECOO's joint venture with Land Rover starting in 2011. As a result of this collaboration, which included technology sharing, JAECOO has successfully integrated Land Rover’s renowned off-road expertise into their vehicles. While it's true that most J7 owners may never face the rigorous obstacles showcased today, the event demonstrated the SUV's vast capabilities. This means it can effortlessly handle urban challenges like flash floods, potholes, and rough roads.

Currently, the JAECOO J7 is in a registration of interest phase, allowing Malaysians early access to this exciting model, set to launch in Q1 as a locally assembled vehicle. With pricing estimated to start at RM150k and options for either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the J7 presents an incredibly value-rich proposition.

It’s refreshing to find such a capable and well-appointed SUV at an accessible price point. Typically, one might expect to pay upwards of RM400k for similar features in an SUV adorned with a Land Rover badge. The J7 not only promises a premium interior and sleek design but genuine off-road prowess, making it a standout offering in the current market.

We have yet to test the JAECOO J7's on-road performance, but if its second cousins, such as the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro and Chery Omoda 5, are any indication, we anticipate it will excel in this area as well. This suggests that the J7 could truly offer buyers an all-encompassing SUV package, seamlessly blending versatility and performance in one robust vehicle at a relatively affordable price. 

Also read:  JAECOO Malaysia opens registration of interest (ROI) for the eagerly awaited J7 SUV, estimate price from RM150k