Jaecoo J7, a new contender in Off-Road suvs tested for toughnes locally at M4TREC

KUALA LUMPUR: When Jaecoo Malaysia showcased the J7 earlier this month, it sparked curiosity among journalists about its off-road capabilities, as their vehicles was labelled "Premium Off-Road SUV".

In a market where most modern SUVs focus on urban functionality, Jaecoo, a Chery sub-brand, seems to be carving a unique path with its emphasis on off-road prowess. This approach potentially sets them apart from the usual urban-centric SUVs.

The question then arises: How did Jaecoo acquire the expertise to make a credible off-road SUV? The answer lies in Chery's association with Jaguar Land Rover, known for their proficiency in crafting vehicles suited for rough terrain. This partnership likely provided Jaecoo with valuable insights into off-road vehicle design, particularly from Land Rover's expertise.

The true off-road capabilities of Jaecoo SUVs, especially the J7, remained a topic of speculation among local journalists. However, a recent outing at M4TREC, a leading 4WD training provider in Malaysia, shed some light on this. The trainers at M4TREC put the Jaecoo J7 through rigorous tests on their course, effectively demonstrating its off-road potential.

In response to queries on their Facebook page about whether the J7 was more style than substance, M4TREC affirmed that it possesses both qualities. They highlighted the J7's capability in off-road scenarios, even without the traditional low-range gear option found in conventional 4WD vehicles. The J7's AWD system appears adept at handling less-traveled roads, similar to some of Land Rover's contemporary models which also lack a low-range option but still perform well off-road.

To thoroughly assess the J7's capabilities, the expert trainers at M4TREC set up a range of challenging obstacles for testing, including a "roller ramp" test, articulation test, ridge crossing, and steep descent.

Faced with these varied challenges, the J7 demonstrated its ability to overcome tough road conditions and impact resistance.

While some might view this as a publicity move or a testing ground scenario, the endorsement from M4TREC lends credibility to the J7's off-road claims. They have provided a glimpse into what the vehicle is capable of, affirming its potential as a competent off-road SUV.

The J7's strengths however extend beyond its off-road prowess. In the renowned international moose test, it showcased remarkable agility by impressively maneuvering the moose dodge at a speed of 80 km/h.

It seems like the J7 is shaping up to be a versatile SUV, ready to make a significant impact on the market, and we're eager to see how Malaysians take to it. With its blend of capabilities, the J7 could very well resonate with drivers, especially in the Klang Valley.

The region, often likened to a giant off-road course due to its numerous construction sites and challenging road conditions, seems like the perfect proving ground for the J7. It's gearing up to be a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive off-road vehicles, offering a similar level of ruggedness and reliability at a more accessible price point.

The JAECOO J7 is driven by a robust 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, delivering a formidable 194 horsepower and 290Nm of torque. Complementing this power is a sophisticated 7-speed Dual Clutch Wet transmission from Getrag, along with a cutting-edge intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system featuring seven distinct terrain modes.

Enhancing its off-road capabilities, JAECOO has outfitted the SUV with a sturdy rear axle rated at 3,000Nm, ensuring it's well-equipped for any adventure duties.

The J7 boasts impressive off-road chops, thanks to its 200 mm ground clearance and 600 mm wading depth, enabling it to navigate through tough landscapes and even shallow water with ease.

Additionally, its advanced 520-degree multifunctional front-view camera provides enhanced visibility, covering the vehicle's blind spots, including the area underneath, for safer and more confident driving.

Also Read: 5 things to know about the upcoming Jaecoo J7

Picture Credit: M4TREC 4WD Training & Experience Centre