The Jaecoo J5 SUV has been officially confirmed for launch in Australia by the end of 2025. This model is the smallest and most affordable offering from the Omoda Jaecoo brand, which is a subsidiary of Chery International. In an interview with CarExpert, Shawn Xu, vice chairman of Chery International and CEO of Omoda Jaecoo, detailed the vehicle’s capabilities and features, highlighting its appeal to Australian consumers.
The Jaecoo J5 is designed to compete with popular compact SUVs such as the Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30, and Nissan Qashqai. Xu mentioned some unique features that differentiate the J5 from its competitors. Among these is a built-in karaoke function, allowing drivers to enjoy singing while on the road. “These are features that make driving fun and enjoyable,” Xu stated. Additionally, the J5 includes pet-friendly elements, such as specialized air-conditioning and easy-to-clean seat surfaces.
Specifications and Pricing Details
The J5 will be positioned below the Jaecoo J7 in both size and pricing. Currently, the J5 is available in the UK with two trim levels: Pure and Luxury. The vehicle measures 4380mm in length, 1860mm in width, and stands 1650mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2620mm. Pricing in the UK starts at £24,505 for the Pure trim, while the base model of the Jaecoo J7 retails for £30,115.
Under the hood, the UK version of the Jaecoo J5 features a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 108kW and 275Nm of torque. It is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, enabling the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.0 seconds. While power is sent exclusively to the front wheels in the UK model, an all-wheel-drive option exists in other markets, though it remains uncertain whether this will be available in Australia.
In addition, an electric variant, the Jaecoo E5, is available in the UK. This model features a front-mounted electric motor with a power output of 152kW and 288Nm of torque, supported by a 61.1kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. The E5 offers a range of 399 km according to the WLTP cycle and supports 80kW DC charging. The electric model starts at a price that is £3,000 higher than its petrol counterpart.
Interior Features and Local Adaptations
Both petrol and electric versions of the J5 come equipped with a 13.2-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen, which supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a comprehensive 540-degree camera system. The Luxury trim enhances the interior experience with features such as power-adjustable front seats that include heating and memory functions, wireless smartphone charging, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and an eight-speaker Sony sound system.
Cargo space is also a highlight, with the rear seats capable of a 60:40 split. When folded flat, the petrol model can expand its cargo capacity from 480L to 1180L.
Jaecoo UK has adjusted the suspension tuning of the petrol-powered J5 to better suit local road conditions. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with 19 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), calibrated for British driving expectations. In Australia, Chery has undertaken similar adjustments to the ADAS following customer feedback to ensure alignment with local requirements.
The Omoda Jaecoo brand made its entry into the Australian market earlier this year. Positioned above Chery’s traditional offerings, Omoda Jaecoo has seen notable success, delivering 1,124 vehicles by the end of July 2023. The brand’s first product, the Omoda 9 large hybrid SUV, has contributed to these numbers.
As the Jaecoo J5 approaches its launch, the anticipation among Australian consumers is growing, particularly with its blend of affordability, innovative features, and the promise of an engaging driving experience.
